Menu
09/01/2004
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)
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)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
05 October 2005
Launch of drive to spread excellence in higher education
An initiative was launched today to promote excellence across all aspects of teaching and learning in Northern Ireland Higher Education. The regional Centres for Excellence in Teaching and Learning programme (CETLs NI) was unveiled by Employment and Learning Minister, Angela Smith, at Parliament Buildings on Wednesday.
Launch of drive to spread excellence in higher education
An initiative was launched today to promote excellence across all aspects of teaching and learning in Northern Ireland Higher Education. The regional Centres for Excellence in Teaching and Learning programme (CETLs NI) was unveiled by Employment and Learning Minister, Angela Smith, at Parliament Buildings on Wednesday.
07 September 2005
NI Further Education Colleges to merge
Northern Ireland's 16 Further Education Colleges will merge into six larger area-based groupings following a review of the sector, it was confirmed on Wednesday.
NI Further Education Colleges to merge
Northern Ireland's 16 Further Education Colleges will merge into six larger area-based groupings following a review of the sector, it was confirmed on Wednesday.
20 November 2013
Higher Education Contributes £1bn Annually
Northern Ireland's higher education institutions contribute almost £1bn annually to the economy, according to Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry.
Higher Education Contributes £1bn Annually
Northern Ireland's higher education institutions contribute almost £1bn annually to the economy, according to Employment and Learning Minister Dr Stephen Farry.
08 September 2014
UU Nominated For Times Higher Education Awards
Two University of Ulster projects have been shortlisted for the Times Higher Education awards. The University was selected for its contribution to the local community through sports outreach, and for an ICT initiative aimed at promoting human rights awareness and research.
UU Nominated For Times Higher Education Awards
Two University of Ulster projects have been shortlisted for the Times Higher Education awards. The University was selected for its contribution to the local community through sports outreach, and for an ICT initiative aimed at promoting human rights awareness and research.
21 October 2009
QUB Is Top 'Entrepreneurial University'
Queen's University, Belfast has been named as the Times Higher Education Entrepreneurial University of the Year. The University was awarded the top prize at a glittering ceremony in London's Grosvenor House Hotel hosted by Clive Anderson.
QUB Is Top 'Entrepreneurial University'
Queen's University, Belfast has been named as the Times Higher Education Entrepreneurial University of the Year. The University was awarded the top prize at a glittering ceremony in London's Grosvenor House Hotel hosted by Clive Anderson.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
