08/02/2024
'Major Concerns' Young People Being Priced Out Of Education
The Alliance Party has raises "major concerns" that young people are being priced out of access to Higher and Further Education, following the release of NUS-USI's Cost of Living Survey.
The party's Economy spokesperson, Sorcha Eastwood, highlighted how the report found that a quarter of students have been unable to pay rent or bills, while 68% have seen an increase in housing costs.
The Lagan Valley MLA said: "It has been clear that throughout the pandemic and cost of living crisis, young people have been significantly impacted.
"The responses to this survey lays bare the stark reality of the student experience for many young people in Higher and Further Education.
"The reality is that the costs of Higher and Further Education, both direct and additional, are a barrier for some young people, which is shameful.
"We need to be focused on widening participation and access to education, to ensure all young people can go on to fulfil their potential.
"I will be asking the new Economy Minister to undertake a review of current financial support payments available to students.
"Alliance would also like to see an updated higher education strategy and a new widening participation strategy."
The party's Economy spokesperson, Sorcha Eastwood, highlighted how the report found that a quarter of students have been unable to pay rent or bills, while 68% have seen an increase in housing costs.
The Lagan Valley MLA said: "It has been clear that throughout the pandemic and cost of living crisis, young people have been significantly impacted.
"The responses to this survey lays bare the stark reality of the student experience for many young people in Higher and Further Education.
"The reality is that the costs of Higher and Further Education, both direct and additional, are a barrier for some young people, which is shameful.
"We need to be focused on widening participation and access to education, to ensure all young people can go on to fulfil their potential.
"I will be asking the new Economy Minister to undertake a review of current financial support payments available to students.
"Alliance would also like to see an updated higher education strategy and a new widening participation strategy."
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.