Universities UK is today (Friday) hosting a debate on options for the future funding of higher education. A leading panel of Vice-Chancellors, higher education experts and student representatives, as well as eminent figures from the world of business, will explore the various policy options and debate the main issues for the future.

The start of the independent review into Higher Education Funding and Student Finance, to be chaired by former BP chief Lord Browne, was announced last month. Ahead of the Review’s public hearings, today’s debate is intended to inform the review, by addressing crucial issues such as how the university sector's funding needs will be met in future, what impact any changes will have on students and government, what employers might be prepared to contribute, and how to ensure the UK maintains its position of excellence. 

Professor Steve Smith, President of Universities UK and part of today’s debate, said: “This critical debate marks the beginning of a process of change in university funding. The independent review panel will only do its job effectively if everyone who cares about the future of higher education makes their voice heard.
 
“Whatever the outcome of the review, no change is not an option – if we are to keep our place among the world leaders of higher education, we must invest in world class people, infrastructure and student experience.”

Notes

1. The debate will be chaired by Mike Baker, Education writer and broadcaster. On the panel will be Nicholas Barr, Professor of Public Economics, London School of Economics, Wes Streeting, President of NUS, Professor Don Nutbeam, Vice-Chancellor, University of Southampton, Sir John Chisholm, Chairman, Qinetiq, Professor Christine King, Vice-Chancellor, University of Staffordshire, and Anna Fazackerley, Head of Education & Arts and Culture, Policy Exchange.
2. The Universities Secretary Lord Mandelson announced on the 9th November 2009 the appointment of Lord Browne of Madingley as chair of the Independent Review of Higher Education Funding and Student Finance. The review is tasked with making recommendations to Government on the future of fees policy and financial support for full and part-time undergraduate and postgraduate students. For more information, visit: www.independent.gov.uk/hereview
3. The recent pre-budget report has further intensified debate about the future funding of higher education. For Universities UK’s response, please visit: http://www.universitiesuk.ac.uk/Newsroom/Media-Releases/Pages/Pre-Budget-Report-Response.aspx