Policy Hub
On 26 August 2009, the Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) published a report which urges the government to learn from problems encountered funding university places this year and to ensure sufficient resources and student places are available next year to meet demand.
The report argues that restrictions imposed on funding for student places this year have meant that many qualified students will not be able to attend university at a time when jobs for young people are in short supply. It warns that this year’s mistakes could be repeated unless appropriate plans are put in place now.The report insists that the recession has accelerated the need for steps to be taken to increase support for universities and students from low income households. It calls for a clear acknowledgement of the role university education can play in upgrading the skills and capabilities of younger people.
The report also highlights the lack of success of assorted attempts to get more students into higher education. Some groups – particularly lower income students and those doing part-time courses – still face significant disadvantages.
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