Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning, Wendy Alexander today approved the planned merger of Northern College of Education with the Universities of Aberdeen and Dundee.
Ms Alexander said:
"The integration of Northern College's two campuses with the
Universities of Aberdeen and Dundee will have considerable benefits for
students and staff alike and will enhance the teacher training provision
available in Tayside and Grampian
"Students will benefit from access to a greater range of courses and the opportunity to participate in the wider academic and social communities within the universities.
"The strong research ethos of the two universities will offer development possibilities to the staff, and in return the universities will benefit from the College's strong links with schools and other educational bodies.
"By combining their resources and expertise, the merged institutions will demonstrate high levels of academic quality, diversity and flexibility.
NOTES TO NEWS EDITORS
1. The College's Aberdeen and Dundee campuses are to be merged with
the respective Universities.
2. In considering merger proposals, the Minister for Enterprise and Lifelong Learning is advised by the Scottish Higher Education Funding Council (SHEFC). SHEFC assess the proposal against criteria established for this purpose, and endorsed by the Scottish Executive. Institutions are expected to demonstrate that their proposals to merge are based upon an objective and detailed assessment of the costs and benefits involved, and that the decision to merge reflects a desire to enhance educational opportunities, and the teaching and learning environment of students and staff. Furthermore, the proposal must contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of the Scottish higher education sector as a whole.
3. The technical means by which the merger will be effected is by means of an Order closing Northern College and transferring its rights, assets, liabilities etc to the Universities. Before making the Order, the Minister is required to consult with the governing body of the institution to be closed, and with SHEFC. These consultations will take place with a view to implementing the merger later in the year.
Contact: Neil Trotter 0141 242 5677
News Release: se01519/01
www.scotland.gov.uk
University of Dundee comment