Universities UK has responded today to the publication of the Government’s framework for higher education, Higher Ambitions.
Professor Steve Smith, President of Universities UK, said: “These proposals recognise the vital role that universities will play in the future success of the UK, both in economic and social terms.
“Figures published today by Universities UK show that universities now generate £59 billion for the UK economy, £15 billion more than in 2004. Universities are already working closely with businesses and we agree that increasing this fruitful interaction will be critical to our national future success. We also agree that increasing the range of routes into higher education and the diversity of modes of learning, including for part-time and mature students is essential to maximise the contribution that universities make.
“Students are our key priority. We are glad that the report recognises the strong reputation of UK HE as a destination of choice for students both at home and abroad. For some years, universities have made considerable efforts to ensure that potential students are well-informed, including publishing data on a central website by subject and institution on drop-out, graduate destinations and satisfaction. But we are taking this further, and are supporting HEFCE research asking prospective students directly what further information they want and where from.
“We are also involving students in quality assurance at every level, including as auditors on review teams. With our support, a tough new complaints process was introduced. This allows any person to flag a ‘cause for concern’ for investigation by the QAA. And Universities UK is leading on strengthening the role of the external examiner, which is a safeguard of standards unique in the world at undergraduate level.
“We share the Government's commitment to ensure that anyone with the ability to benefit has the opportunity to access higher education. Not only is this an issue of social justice, but also vital if we as a sector are to be able to continue to compete globally. Given the composition of the labour force and the demographics, universities recognise the importance of expanding adult provision, particularly in terms of up-skilling and re-skilling those already in the workforce. To support this, universities offer a wide range of learning models. However, the key to widening participation in higher education, for those who apply directly from school and college, lies in raising awareness earlier on in the education process and in increasing attainment levels in schools and this is why universities have developed extensive partnerships with schools and colleges.
“We note statements in Higher Ambitions that there should be a greater element of competition between universities for funding, including channelling teaching funds towards STEM subjects. We have called for a considered debate about the impacts of increased contestability in the distribution of funding within the sector.
“However, if contestability implies taking money from core teaching and research funds, and making institutions bid for it, it risks inefficiency, frustrating longer-term planning, and could act as a barrier to effective strategic management within the sector. The dimensions of contestability will need careful thought.
“The Framework rightly acknowledges the importance of the UK’s research base and that this must be supported if we are to maintain our global pre-eminence and drive economic prosperity.
“We already have one of the most highly concentrated research funding systems. Any policy of further concentration should be based on sound evidence of the needs of the UK and the capacity of the system as a whole, now and in the future. It is also vital that we recognise the importance of maintaining a dynamic and healthy research system, across the arts, humanities and social sciences as well as the STEM disciplines, that can support new and emerging areas and be responsive to new challenges.
“We support the recognition that collaborative ventures may help sustain leading research in key disciplines. This must, however be sector led, with support from the funding bodies.”
Notes
- More information on Higher Ambitions is available on the BIS website.
- Unistats is the official website to help prospective students make an informed choice when deciding which university or college to apply to.