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10 Jan 2006 15:12:59
Minister for Higher Education, Bill Rammell, today praised the University of Luton for having one of the best track records in the country for widening participation.
Mr Rammell made the comments during the launch of the University’s new Bursary Scheme which he attended following discussions with Muslim students and members of staff about campus relations.
The visit was part of a national tour of universities by the Minister, in response to the publication of guidelines by Universities UK (UUK), to promote harmony and tackle intolerance on campus, which was produced by a committee led by University of Luton Vice Chancellor, Professor Les Ebdon.
Speaking at the event, Mr Rammell said: “Today’s discussion is extremely important and is part of a series of meetings that I have been conducting at a number of universities around the UK.
“My aim is to listen to students’ comments, respond to their grievances and build on common ground. It’s important that we open up dialogue and listen to their concerns. Those I have met have expressed their horror at the London bombings and also spoke about what they felt was the negative portrayal of their community in the national media following the terror attacks.”
Vice Chancellor, Professor Les Ebdon, said the Minister’s visit was hugely important in helping to address the issues raised in the UUK report. “This visit highlights the importance of listening to staff and students.
“Mr Rammell has been very supportive of the UUK guidelines and this series of meetings with staff and students will go a long way in helping to implement good campus relations.”
Following the discussion, Mr Rammell joined the Vice Chancellor and members of staff to launch the University’s Bursary Scheme, which has been singled out as one of the most generous in the country. The scheme has been introduced in light of the new fees structure that comes into effect in September 2006.
Mr Rammell said: “I want to congratulate Luton on its commitment to a fair chance for students from households with lower incomes. The launch of its bursaries today shows that fees should not be a deterrent for anyone considering going to university.
“Luton has one of the best records in the country for widening participation and this is further reflected in its new Bursary Scheme.”
Professor Ebdon added: “We are also delighted that the Minister has joined us to launch the University of Luton Bursary Scheme. From September, some students will receive £300 per year, rising to £1,750 per year for those families with the lowest income.
“The re-introduction of Government grants, as well as separate scholarships, means students will have a huge amount of support to complete their studies. Most importantly, they won’t have to pay anything back until they are earning more than £15,000 per year.”
The Minister plans to report his findings from his discussions to the Home Office.
To find out more about the University’s new Bursary Scheme visit www.luton.ac.uk/fees.
Latest news» 2006» Jan» Luton is “one of the best” says Minister
