Queen's calls for extension to Higher Education Bill

Queen’s University has warned of a growing gap between Northern Ireland and other regions of the UK if the proposed reforms outlined in Thursday's Higher Education Bill are not extended to Northern Ireland.

The University described the replacement of upfront tuition fees with a contribution payable when graduates are in work as a progressive step which would both improve the funding of higher education and bring its benefits to wider social groups. It also endorsed the proposal to allow universities to vary the amount they charge for individual courses.

“Queen’s believes that university education should be free at the point of entry, free during the period of study, and free until the graduate is in a position to pay,” said Vice-Chancellor Sir George Bain.

“The current debate on university funding demonstrates government recognition of the significant under investment in higher education. It also acknowledges that it is no longer possible to fund a mass system from general taxation alone and, at the same time, maintain its quality.

“At present, there is a shortfall in funding of £20 million per year between Northern Ireland’s universities and the rest of the UK. This gap must be made up if our universities are to serve the community and compete in the national and international arena. In this context, an increased student contribution seems inevitable. The deferred repayment aspect of these proposals is more equitable than the current up-front fees."

Sir George said it was continually important to consider increasing support for students, so that those from disadvantaged backgrounds were not deterred from entering higher education.

Meanwhile, Queen’s University has announced that it's next Vice-Chancellor will be Professor Peter Gregson FREng.

Currently Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Southampton, Professor Gregson will succeed Sir George who is to retire in July.

The appointment was confirmed at a special meeting of Senate, Queen’s governing body, this morning.

At 46, Professor Gregson will be Queen’s youngest Vice-Chancellor since the office was created in 1908.

(MB)