A group of student unions led by the University of Sheffield and the London School of Economics wrote an open letter to Education Secretary Gavin Williamson and Universities Minister Michelle Donelan proposing that the government is funding a 30% discount in undergraduate tuition fees this year.
Leaders of the Rusell Group student unions said the proposal is based on modeling by London Economics, which shows that by applying a real interest rate increase on fee reimbursement up to 6 , 2%, the government would be able to offer an unconditional means grant of £ 2,700 to all undergraduates using the student loans company.
This, they said, would only affect the highest paid graduates in the long run and not affect the taxpayer.
They say the demand follows the damaging impacts the global pandemic has had on the student experience this year.
Sheffield students in particular have faced limited face-to-face teaching, limited facilities and social opportunities.
Some have been trapped into paying for housing they cannot use, while others have reported worsening mental health.
Beth Eyre, president of the Sheffield Students Union, said: “The students have lost this year and deserve compensation.
“Our model is the start of a conversation about how we pay them in a way that doesn’t hurt universities that can’t afford it, and the taxpayer.
“This year, the students have been forgotten at every turn. It is time for the government to listen, show leadership and provide solutions itself. “
David Gordon, General Secretary of the Students’ Union at the London School of Economics, said: “With little or no government support or leadership, we, the students, have come together to create solutions around compensation. expenses.
“This model and our approach are meant to urge the government to finally support students, who have been so easily overlooked this year.
“At no additional cost to the taxpayer, our approach will level the playing field for women graduates and low-income graduates and put money in their pockets when they need it most and deserve it most.” . “
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Source: www.thestar.co.uk
This notice was published: 2021-06-01 19:39:35
