Welsh Universities Urged to Enhance Efforts in Attracting Local Teenagers
In a bid to boost local student enrolment, Welsh universities are being called upon to ramp up their efforts. The Vice-Chancellor of Wrexham University, Professor Joe Yates, has raised concerns over Wales having the lowest rate of 18-year-olds applying to universities compared to other regions in the UK.
Professor Yates believes that this low application rate is detrimental not just to individuals but to the nation as a whole. He advocates for increased outreach programmes and workshops in collaboration with schools and colleges to showcase the benefits of pursuing a degree. According to him, there is untapped potential in Wales that universities can tap into.
Wrexham University has a strong focus on inclusivity, attracting students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in higher education. The institution has been forging closer ties with local colleges, including a recent partnership with Coleg Cambria. Professor Yates emphasised the importance of aligning university offerings with the skills needed by industries in Wales.
While universities in Wales are grappling with financial challenges, Wrexham University and the University of Wales Trinity St Davids stand out as the only two institutions in the region to finish the academic year without a deficit. Both universities, known for their vocational courses, have been striving to meet the local demand for skilled professionals.
Professor Yates highlighted the significance of universities in equipping students with the necessary skills for the workforce. He stressed the need for higher education institutions to adapt to evolving demands and ensure that they are preparing students for the job market effectively. The focus remains on providing a wide array of courses that cater to both vocational and non-vocational disciplines.
Despite financial headwinds affecting the higher education sector, Wrexham University remains vigilant about its financial sustainability. While the institution ended the previous academic year with a £1.3m operating surplus, Professor Yates acknowledged the sector-wide challenges lying ahead as universities navigate through uncertain times.
As universities across Wales grapple with financial deficits and potential job losses, Wrexham University is committed to maintaining its position as a provider of quality education. Acknowledging the evolving landscape of education, Professor Yates emphasised the resilience and adaptability of universities in meeting the changing needs of students and industries.
In light of the ongoing financial pressures on universities in Wales, stakeholders are keenly observing how institutions navigate the turbulent terrain. It is evident that universities, like Wrexham, are crucial players in shaping the educational landscape and fostering economic prosperity within the region.
As the higher education sector continues to evolve, institutions must remain agile in responding to emerging challenges and opportunities. The call for universities to not only adapt but thrive in the face of adversity underscores the critical role they play in shaping the future of education and workforce development in Wales.