Letter: Economy needs degree of hope

THE news of proposed cuts to the budgets of some of Scotland's universities and colleges highlights the challenges such institutions face and the threat posed to our economic recovery (News, 2 May).

Skills development is vital to the productivity and economic development of Scotland, as outlined in the Scottish Government's Skills Strategy, and it is key that we maintain investment in our universities and colleges as a means to deliver a skilled workforce and maintain economic recovery.

As the economy recovers it is vital a skilled workforce meets the demands of both current and future economic growth, especially as we embrace new sectors such as renewables. And it is colleges, universities and industries working together that will create and develop education and skills opportunities.

There is no magic bullet, but it is vital that we continue to invest in our universities and colleges, enabling them to develop flexibility for employers and businesses looking to access skills at the right time and in the right place.

Jacqui Hepburn, Director, Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, Scotland