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Monday | 13 January 2025 | Epaper

Italy becoming key destination for Bangladeshi students 

Published : Saturday, 19 October, 2024 at 12:00 AM  Count : 675
Pranto Chatterjee
Bangladesh, one of the top six migrant source countries globally, has seen a rising number of its citizens migrating for better opportunities. Traditionally, Middle Eastern countries and Southeast Asia have been common destinations for Bangladeshi migrants. However, in recent years, Europe has emerged as an increasingly popular destination, particularly Italy. While the United Kingdom has historically been the top destination in Europe for Bangladeshi migrants, Italy has rapidly become a favored alternative. This shift is not only due to Italy's more flexible immigration policies but also because of its growing reputation as a hub for higher education, which is gaining significant attention from Bangladeshi students.

In recent times, Italy has become a major destination for Bangladeshi students seeking higher education, drawn by its prestigious universities, diverse academic programs, and scholarship opportunities. One of the major attractions is the MACEI Scholarship, which offers financial aid to international students, including those from Bangladesh. The scholarship helps students cover tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, making higher education in Italy more accessible. The scholarship process is relatively straightforward, and students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need have a good chance of receiving this support.

But what makes Italy stand out from other European countries when it comes to higher education?

Why Italy is an Ideal destination for higher education. 

1.    Affordable Education: Compared to other European countries like the UK or Germany, Italy offers much more affordable tuition fees. Most public universities charge between euro 500 and 2,500 per year, which is significantly lower than what one would find in the UK or the United States. Additionally, the cost of living in cities like Rome, Milan, and Florence, while high, is still more manageable than in other major European cities.

2.    World-Class Universities: Italy is home to some of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world, such as the University of Bologna, which dates back to 1088. The country offers a broad range of courses, from arts and humanities to engineering, medicine, and business. Many Italian universities also rank highly in global university rankings, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education.

3.    Scholarship Opportunities: Apart from the MACEI Scholarship, Italy offers a variety of scholarships specifically designed for international students, including those from Bangladesh. Scholarships such as the Italian Government Scholarships, University-specific Scholarships, and the "Invest Your Talent in Italy" program significantly reduce the financial burden for students. Many of these scholarships not only cover tuition fees but also offer monthly stipends to help with living expenses.

4.    Job Prospects and Work Permits: Italy provides favorable post-graduation work opportunities for international students. Upon completing their degrees, students can apply for a job-searching visa, which allows them to stay in the country for up to 12 months while looking for employment. This is a huge advantage for students, especially when compared to other European countries where post-graduation work visas are more restricted. Moreover, Italy's strong connections with the rest of the European Union make it easier for graduates to explore job opportunities across Europe.

5.    Gateway to Europe: As part of the European Union, Italy provides students with access to a wider range of job markets and research opportunities across Europe. With an Italian student visa, students can travel freely within the Schengen Zone, allowing them to explore other countries and cultures. This mobility is a significant advantage for students looking to broaden their horizons and gain international work experience.

Studying in Italy doesn't just provide students with a high-quality education; it also opens doors to the broader European Union (EU) job market. With an EU degree, graduates are well-positioned to apply for jobs in any of the 27 member countries, providing a vast array of opportunities. Italy's membership in the EU allows graduates to take advantage of internship and employment programs across Europe, making it an ideal base for those seeking international career prospects.

In addition to its appeal for higher education, Italy is fast becoming a major hub for migration from Bangladesh. While traditionally the UK has been the top European destination for Bangladeshi migrants, recent changes in visa policies and economic opportunities have made Italy a favorite choice. Italy's relaxed immigration policies, including periodic regularization of undocumented migrants and flexible work permits, make it easier for students and professionals to settle in the country.

Moreover, Italy has temporarily postponed the issuance of working visas due to internal labor market adjustments, but this presents a unique opportunity for students. By pursuing higher education in Italy, Bangladeshi students can secure legal entry into the country and stay longer, thanks to the job-searching visa provided after graduation. This visa allows graduates to remain in Italy for up to a year while they look for a job, ensuring that students have enough time to find stable employment and contribute to the Italian economy.

In recent years, Italy has emerged as a significant destination for Bangladeshi migrants, and this trend shows no signs of slowing down. According to the International Organization for Migration (IOM), there are now over 135,000 Bangladeshis living in Italy, making it the second-largest Bangladeshi community in Europe after the UK. This shift can be attributed to Italy's inclusive labor market, which has historically welcomed migrants from various countries, including Bangladesh.

Furthermore, Italy's participation in international academic exchange programs, such as Erasmus+, enhances its reputation as a top destination for international students. Erasmus+ offers students the chance to study in multiple European countries during their degree, providing a truly international education experience.

In conclusion, Italy is rapidly becoming one of the best destinations in Europe for higher education, especially for students from Bangladesh. Its affordable education, world-class universities, extensive scholarship opportunities, and favorable job prospects make it an attractive option. Moreover, Italy's membership in the European Union provides Bangladeshi students with a gateway to explore broader European markets and opportunities. For those interested in both academic and professional growth, Italy is an ideal destination.

As Italy continues to develop its higher education sector and expand its reach to international students, it is clear that the country is well on its way to becoming the next big hub for migration and education from Bangladesh. If you are considering studying abroad, Italy might just be the perfect destination to achieve both academic success and long-term career growth.

The writer is a master's student in Autonomous Vehicle Engineering at the University of Naples Federico II, Italy


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