Skills are vital
The news of proposed cuts to the budgets of some of Scotland's universities and colleges (your report, 3 May) highlights the challenges such institutions face and the threat posed to our fragile economic recovery.
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.
JACQUI HEPBURN
Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, Scotland
Castle Street