In response to today’s A-level results, Libby Hackett, Director of University Alliance, said:
“The high number of well-qualified young people wanting to go to university is further evidence they understand the value of a degree and are determined to improve their future prospects and achieve their ambitions. We strongly believe that the value of a degree is worth the investment for individuals and society, raising hopes and prospects for the future, and the economy, as graduates continue to drive growth. That is why all 23 Alliance universities have signed a vision to be absolutely clear about our offer to applicants, putting them at the centre of their learning, and to demonstrate that a degree is an investment worth making.
“People should not be put off going to university because of financial concerns or the myth that demand for graduates will dry up. There is extensive evidence showing us that it will be innovative, high-tech business that will grow the UK economy. These industries will require more innovative, creative graduates – those who will create new jobs, not replace old ones.
“We face considerable longer-term challenges as a country, including the implications of the ‘hourglass’ projection for the future shape of the labour market. The Coalition Government’s current emphasis on apprenticeships and intermediate-level skills will create a skills base that is more pear-shaped than hourglass. With 41 per cent of all UK jobs already based in the knowledge-intensive sectors, a figure that is rapidly rising, we would urge them to reconsider their vision.”
–Ends–
- All 23 Alliance universities have signed up to Our vision: more than just a degree – which can be found athttps://www.unialliance.ac.uk/campaigns/studentstories/our-vision-more-than-just-a-degree/
- University Alliance is a group of 23 major, business-engaged universities committed to delivering world-class research and a quality student experience around the UK. They are universities without boundaries: delivering economic and social growth through close links with their research, students and staff and the world around them – locally, nationally and internationally. With representation right across the UK they educate over 25% of all UK students, with large proportions of international and post-graduate students.
- Alliance universities – Aberystwyth University, Bournemouth University, University of Bradford, De Montfort University, University of Glamorgan, Glasgow Caledonian University, University of Hertfordshire, University of Huddersfield, University of Lincoln, Liverpool John Moores University, Manchester Metropolitan University, Northumbria University, Nottingham Trent University, Open University, Oxford Brookes University, University of Plymouth, University of Portsmouth, University of Salford, Sheffield Hallam University, Teesside University, University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, University of Wales, Newport, University of the West of England.
