The past few days have been pivotal in preparations for the new academic year in Scotland’s colleges.
This is enormously important, given the crucial role of colleges in supporting our communities and our economy, which have been so badly affected by Covid-19. We know, from the economic downturn in 2008-09, that it is the most vulnerable in society who are most disproportionately affected and for longer.
Colleges will be front and centre of our economic recovery, working closely with employers to respond flexibly to the skills demands of the region and communities they serve.
Coronavirus:ÌýColleges told to prepare for 'phased return' in autumn
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Their response to the coronavirus pandemic so far has been impressive: suspending face-to-face teaching in March to protect staff and students, and quickly switching to digital teaching and assessment and ensuring thatÌýstudents have the equipment they need to access online learning.
Coronavirus: The impact on colleges
I had an enormously constructive meeting on Tuesday with all of Scotland’s college principals to discuss the Scottish government’s route map through and out of the coronavirus crisis. As it sets out, any changes to lockdown restrictions will be evidence-based.
Under this framework, the third phase would see universities and colleges return next term with most planning for an initial combination of digital and blended learning with public health measures, including physical distancing in place.
Our colleges are now proactively planning for next term to ensure a safe environment for staff and students while supporting their students in their studies.
This includes practical help, for example with access to IT equipment, and I have written to the major broadband and telecommunications companies to explore their support forÌýproviding students with free data and or free access to broadband services.
I have also previously announced £5 million in emergency funding through our Student Support Action Plan for students facing financial hardship, and I am actively considering issues relating to support available over the summer months.
Meanwhile, I have written to the UK work and pensions secretary on student hardship to request that Universal Credit eligibility be changed to allow students to access social security support over the summer months. I have also written toÌýcounterparts across the four nations of the UK, requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the hardship students are facing as a result of the pandemic, including mental health support.
While college life next term will undoubtedly be different, our institutions are preparing for a phased and safe return for the thousands of students starting or continuing their courses and the staff who will be teaching them.
Studying with our institutions will continue to be world-class and, with the recruitment and application process already underway, anyone thinking about studying at college in Scotland should apply, without delay.
Richard Lochhead is Scotland's minister for FE, HE and science
