College merger proposals out for consultation

Scotland’s four leading colleges have moved a step closer their planned merger with the launch of a public and stakeholder consultation on the form of the new single institute.

Barony College, Elmwood College, Oatridge College and the Scottish Agricultural College have come together to look at how the increasing demands of the land-based sector could be met by a new institute of further and higher education which combines their strengths and expertise.

The idea behind the move is based on the land-based industries which form an important part of the Scottish economy. The sector contributes an estimated 70,000 jobs to the economy, and around 20,000 Scottish businesses operate in the land-based and environmental industries.

The four existing colleges across Scotland believe the creation of a national land-based college for Scotland would help support the next generation of workers and businesses in this key industry.

The consultation runs to 7 May and staff and students across the colleges, local communities, industry partners and other stakeholders are being encouraged to voice their opinion on the proposals.