Academic fears

The World Reputation Rankings of universities makes uncomfortable reading for our Scottish institutions, with only Edinburgh securing a place in the top 100.

Rather worryingly, there seems to be emerging a group of “super universities”, rich, mainly American, with the ability to attract the best talent in both staff and students. Oxford and Cambridge may not be rich by the standards of the top US institutions, but they are wealthy by British standards and their reputation ensures a place among the elite.

Given the background of closing departments to avoid going into the red, it is not entirely surprising that some of our universities have slipped places. Edinburgh has done well to come not only in the top 100, but also in the top 50, albeit by a whisker.

I found Professor Joe Goldblatt’s musings (Perspective, 16 March) on how to reinvigorate our universities less than reassuring, as sustainable funding of high education is seen to depend upon Scotland achieving independence, hardly a forgone conclusion.

A Scottish Government wedded to the idea of free higher education (provided you’re Scottish) does not seem to me to be the kind of support our universities need if we are to compete with the high levels of investment seen in eastern Asia and Europe. Even keeping up with English universities will be no easy task as they tap into their more generous fee income.

Keddie Law

Lunan Avenue

Montrose, Angus