UCU responds to new graduate figures

Responding to new figures around graduate employment, the union said it made no sense to withdraw funding for higher education and the government had to recognise the wider benefits of education, not merely focus on likely economic benefits.
 
Figures released today from the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) reveal that the proportion of UK full-time first degree graduates in employment in 2007-08 was 62%, a drop from 64% the previous year. However, the number of post-graduates in employment for rose slightly.
 
UCU general secretary, Sally Hunt, said: 'Today's figures underline the value of higher level skills during the recession and the vital contribution of higher education.  At a time of record demand the government should be looking to lift its cap on extra student numbers and be investing more money in the sector. It makes no sense to be withdrawing funds at this vital time.

'The benefits of a university education are vast and UCU welcomes the rise in postgraduates entering the job market. However, it is important that policy makers do not fall in to the trap of focusing purely on the economic benefits of studying a degree. Education helps people to grow and benefits society in many different ways.'
 
The full figures are available on the HESA website.