Vikki Howells MS, Minister for Further and Higher Education
Yesterday, I held the third meeting of the Tertiary Education Ministerial Advisory Group (MAG) and wish to update Members on progress and next steps. In February, I provided an insight into the workings and remit of the Group, which is made up of representatives from across the sector to provide advice on the future direction of tertiary education in Wales.
At last month’s meeting, there was rich and invaluable discussion focused on participation, equality of opportunity and financial sustainability. Yesterday we considered the remaining three challenges set out in the evidence paper I published on 21 January, relating to Competition and collaboration, Demographic change and lifelong learning, and Delivering for the economy.
The Group discussed the potential impact of anticipated demographic shifts and the need to ensure learners of all ages can be upskilled and thrive in education throughout life. Discussion also reflected on the excellent partnership working already taking place across the sector between schools, colleges, universities, industry, and wider partners, some of the barriers to effective collaboration, and how we can build upon our strengths. Finally, the group looked at the contribution of the tertiary sector to the economy both in terms of the impact of various qualification routes, the vital role of research and innovation and the possible effects of changes happening at UK level to research funding where partnership working will again be key.
It was the final scheduled meeting of the Group, and its contributions will be incorporated into the call for evidence submissions. I’m hugely grateful to all Members for taking the time to willingly share their expertise, experience and insight. The Group has been a great example of collaborative working across the tertiary education sector in Wales.