STUDENTS from an African country ravaged by civil war for nearly a quarter of a century have arrived in Glasgow under a groundbreaking project.

Some 20 students from Angola have come to the city for the second year of a course to prepare them for a career in the maritime industry - with another 20 expected in the coming weeks.

Underpinning the project, which is run by City of Glasgow College in partnership with some of the world's largest multi-national companies, is the aim to provide skilled Angolans to work in the shipping industry, which is helping to extract and export the country's vast offshore oil reserves.

The students, who have all successfully completed their first year in Angola, were delighted to be in Glasgow, enjoying the architecture, museums and shopping - although predictably the weather was a big talking point.

Janeth Alberta, 24, a marine engineering student, said: "I found nice people at the college and nice people in Glasgow so it is a good place. Before I went to college I didn't know anything about Scotland apart from the whisky because there are many Scotch whiskies in Angola.

"We have been to Kelvingrove Gallery and Museum and it was wonderful. I loved the animals and the pictures and the things that the children have made."

Eusebio Sabimo, 24, a deck cadet, was concerned about the onset of winter. "When we first came it was very cold, but people have said that it is going to get even colder so I will have to prepare and get myself lots of jumpers.

"We are enjoying being here. I have been to some shops and some restaurants and clubs and the nightlife is very good. The people are friendly and it is good.

"The course is also excellent and I have been learning to take a real responsibility for myself because to run a ship is a very serious job."

Jisilda Nguli, 21, said Glasgow was an interesting city to visit with a fascinating history, but she also misses her home and family.

She said: "We do a video call and we text and speak every week with my family, but I know this is a good course so I am happy to be here to get to the next level of experience and learn more about navigation."

Antonio Tabita, 27, who is also a deck cadet, said he had been told before he came to Scotland that the men wore "skirts".

"I heard that Scottish men wear a skirt, which I know is also called a kilt, but in Angola the men don't wear these, but I would definitely wear one - at least once."

Danilson Menezes, 23, a marine engineer student, said: "I don't miss my family so much, although we keep in touch with them. I like to be away because it is interesting, because I am learning and it is good experience to be away from home."

Paul Little, principal of City of Glasgow College, said the venture proved Scottish colleges could export training across the globe in the same way Scotland's universities now operate.

He added: "I am delighted to welcome our first cohort of students from Angola. The college enjoys a global reputation for excellence in Nautical Studies and Marine Engineering.

"We are committed to widening access to higher education for students in Glasgow, Scotland and across the globe. These students are the first cohort who will take advance study at our new World Class Riverside Campus."