University bosses in the UK are calling for a national goal of 70pc of young people to receive tertiary education by 2040. The aim is included in an ambitious “blueprint for change” issued by Universities UK, which represents the interests of vice-chancellors.
This blueprint promises a place for government support, including grants to disadvantaged students and the creation of a “tertiary education opportunity fund” to accelerate enrolments in areas lagging behind. Together with the participation target, UUK has outlined the objective for financial sustainability in the sector, calling for the government to reverse negative trends in international student numbers and increase funding for teaching and research.
Universities will prove important for the economy. It will also return £14 to the government for each £1 it invests. According to Prof. Sally Mapstone who is the president and vice chancellor of the University of St Andrews, “Universities are key for the growth of the economy. They were attractive growth areas given their contribution to the economy; a £1 spend on them they return £14 to the government.” She called for time to choose the right direction, which ultimately leads to better educational outcomes and wider access for more diverse users.
As such, this policy is a sequel to the milestone goal set by the former Prime Minister Tony Blair for 50% of young people when they have turned 30 years. This goal was achieved even before the close of the year 2020. However, as asserts Prof. Nick Pearce from the University of Bath, the scope of participation should not be limited in it. It has to cut across all areas of tertiary education, sub-degree qualifications included.
Pearce suggested improvements in the quality of the workforce through training enrollments between A levels and bachelor degrees. He also seemed to canvass the promotion of level four and above education, while also encouraging claims for restoration of maintenance grants and improvement in the support system provided to mentally ill students.
Jo Grady, the general secretary of the University and College Union, agreed additional government investment is required but believes a radical overhaul of the existing funding model has to happen. She attacked the current system of paying for tuition fees, claiming it created imbalances in student admissions and financial management between universities.
International student recruitment was also part of the UUK proposals, demanding balance to include temporary and permanent migration statistics that would relieve public concerns over immigration. At the same time, this should provide room for stability in universities.
A Department for Education spokesperson stated their commitment to a healthy future for UK universities while echoing calls for sound financial health in the sector.
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