Jones Review into higher education is 'hugely disappointing'

UCU Cymru said, 'For months the sector has waited for this report and on first reading it is hugely disappointing. It barely skirts over the most pressing issues, such as the funding gap, collaboration and reconfiguration, and the relationship between higher education institutions and public policy.
 
'The response from the assembly government is now of vital importance.  Now is the time for strong leadership from the minister, starting with clear plans to address the funding gap, action to make governance democratic and accountable and a firm commitment to put into practice the principles of social partnership so that trade unions and staff can play a full and equal role in the future of higher education in Wales.'
 
The review into the role and purpose of higher education in Wales was chaired by Professor Merfyn Jones (vice-chancellor, Bangor University) and was commissioned by the assembly government. The education and skills minister will make a statement to assembly members on the report on 23 June 2009.

The report can be accessed on the Welsh Assembly website.