MPs' concerns at decline in part-time students highlighted – Master of Birkbeck responds
The Master of Birkbeck responds to a new survey showing MPs' dismay at the decline in part-time learning.
Professor David Latchman CBE, Master of Birkbeck, has today responded to a new survey of MPs conducted by ComRes on behalf of The Open University which showed that 73 per cent of those surveyed were concerned at the declining numbers of people embarking on part-time learning.
Nearly 200,000 fewer students were studying part-time in 2014 compared to the 2009/10 academic year, a decline of 41 per cent.
Commenting on the Survey, unveiled at a reception earlier this week at the Houses of Parliament, Professor Latchman said:
“Enabling working people to study is the cornerstone of developing an ever more skilled workforce which is adapted to thrive in a 21st century knowledge economy.
“The precipitous decline we have seen in individuals being able to combine studying, work and a commitment to family and friends is a loss not just for the economy, but for the potential of every single individual who would like to acquire the skills to progress their career, to take on more responsibility, change direction or make a contribution to a new field.
“Though grave, this decline – as well as the news that so many MPs are concerned about it – should serve as a catalyst for the Government to consider the long-term benefits that study, combined with work, can bring to building a sustainable and dynamic economy and to implement measures to support it.”
Professor Latchman’s remarks chimed with those of Peter Horrocks, the Vice-Chancellor of the Open University, who has called on the Government to do more to support part-time learners during a speech given at the House of Commons. He said:
“This Government has talked much about supporting those who work hard. Right now there is a golden opportunity for ministers to deliver on this by realising the kind of social and economic benefits part-time study creates.
While it is encouraging to see MPs sharing our concern over the challenges facing our sector, now is the time to turn this into action. I look forward to working with the Government and across the sector to identify cost-effective ways in which more hard-working people can access the rewards part-time study can offer.”