The UK government's Department for International Development (DFID) is currently reviewing the HE Links Scheme and this means we are unable to accept any new applications for funding. The current programme is being wound down and is due to end in March 2006. Funding will be available for existing links to complete their activity up until the end of March 2006.

It was agreed to continue the programme under DFID with some modifications. More information will be provided once it is available. If you are interested in receiving details on any newly agreed HE Links programme please send us your contact details and we will be in touch as soon as we have any further information.

What is the HE links scheme?

The Higher Education Links Scheme currently facilitates more than 450 links between higher education institutions (HEIs) in the UK and in 48 less developed countries, including 5 links in Sudan. Most links are supported for three years and some extended to 6 years. They also provide small quantities of books and equipment.

What is the scheme aim?

The purpose of the links programme is to contribute to the sustainable development of the countries in which it operates by enhancing the research and training capacity of host countries’ higher education institutions. The ultimate objective is to reduce poverty and suffering by generating and applying knowledge and skills to the particular situations found in local settings.

What institutions get

Overseas institutions get direct benefits from the teaching, research and managerial experience of UK academies and are able to obtain access to high quality facilities in Britain. UK institutions are afforded the ability to enhance the experience of their staff, raise their international profile, undertake overseas research and gain access to donor-funded projects.

Why support the scheme?

Institutions on both sides contribute to the scheme by providing free staff time and access to facilities. In addition, overseas institutions generally provide local transport, accommodation and meals for UK visitors. We contribute by providing overseas management of the scheme at no cost to the Fund for International Co-operation in Higher Education (FICHE), its sponsoring body.

For more information, please visit the higher education links website or contact us.