In response to today’s announcement from the UK government of a package of support for the higher education sector to address immediate and future challenges posed by the COVID-19 crisis, University Alliance chair, and Vice Chancellor of the University of Brighton, Professor Debra Humphris said:
“University Alliance very much welcomes the package of measures announced today, which will give universities and students much-needed reassurance as we navigate the months ahead. During this crisis the interests of students has been at the forefront of decisions taken at a local and national level. The temporary measures outlined will protect the ability of current and future generations of students to choose from a diverse range of world-class providers.
“The stability this package provides will also ensure our members can continue to focus on serving their communities. As providers of professional and technical education, including the training of nearly 25% of undergraduate nursing students in England, we are particularly pleased the package offers specific designation for public sector workforce subjects, which will protect and sustain the vital pipeline of key workers.
“Hosting a Nightingale Field Hospital, developing a rapid Covid-19 test, supporting students to graduate early and staff to return to work on the frontline and manufacturing PPE are just some of the many ways Alliance universities have been supporting the national effort to tackle the pandemic. Since the beginning of this crisis, we have also been clear that with the right support, universities will be able to play a key role in the nation’s economic, social and cultural recovery in the months and years to come.
“We are grateful to the government for listening and working closely with us and the sector. We look forward to further collaboration to build on the measures announced today, including ensuring support is in place for universities in the devolved nations.”
ENDS
Notes:
- University Alliance is the voice of professional and technical universities working at the heart of their communities. Alliance universities work with industry to deliver innovative applied research and practical skills-based learning to solve the problems of the future and train the workforce of tomorrow
- For more information, please contact Beth@unialliance.ac.uk 07756155056
