17 November 2011

Joint Statement from the University of Abertay Dundee, the University of Dundee, Dundee College and the Scottish Funding Council

Following a meeting held to discuss the potential for closer collaboration within the context of the Scottish Government’s proposals for reform of post-16 education in Scotland, the following statement has been issued jointly by the University of Abertay Dundee, the University of Dundee, Dundee College and the Scottish Funding Council for Further and Higher Education:

'Following a very open and positive discussion, Abertay University, Dundee University and Dundee College have agreed that they will remain autonomous and independent bodies, with distinctive missions, visions and values. The three institutions have further agreed, with the support of the Scottish Funding Council, to engage in detailed discussions on options for closer collaboration that will enhance their contribution to achieving the Scottish Government’s aims and objectives for post-16 education across Scotland.

'These discussions will look at how to align more closely the academic curricula of the three institutions, initially in the areas of life sciences and sports education, with the aim of maximizing opportunities for seamless learner progression from further education into higher education. In addition, Dundee College will welcome opportunities for closer collaboration with other colleges in the region.

'These discussions will take place in the context of the Scottish Government’s White Paper on reforming post-16 education in Scotland, and the three institutions reaffirm their collective commitment to creating improved life chances for people in the Dundee city-region, and thereby helping to create jobs and growth.'

Professor Nicholas Terry (University of Abertay Dundee,) Professor Pete Downes (University of Dundee), Ms Christina Potter (Dundee College), Mr Mark Batho (Scottish Funding Council)

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