Higher Education: Staffordshire

In the Adjournment debate on Higher Education in Staffordshire, the Member of Parliament for Newcastle-under-Lyme, Adam Jogee, led the discussion. He began by highlighting the importance of higher education institutions in the region, particularly Keele University, which is located in his constituency. Jogee noted that Keele University, founded in 1949, is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year as the first new university of the 20th century. Jogee praised Keele University's commitment to sustainability, its economic impact as a major employer in the area, and its efforts to engage with the local community through initiatives like the "Keele in Town" programme. He also highlighted the university's strong performance in teaching and research, as well as the achievements of its alumni, including one of Jogee's own constituents who is currently studying medicine at Keele. Addressing the challenges facing the higher education sector, Jogee raised concerns about the financial pressures on universities and the impact on staff and students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. He called for the government to provide support to ensure the sustainability of the sector and to address issues such as the declining proportion of EU students and the need for improved SEND provision. In response, the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Education, Janet Daby, acknowledged the valuable contributions of the higher education institutions in Staffordshire, including the University of Staffordshire and Keele University. She highlighted the government's commitment to ensuring a sustainable funding model for the sector and supporting initiatives that address barriers to opportunity and drive growth. Daby discussed the government's plans to establish Skills England, which will work with higher education providers to ensure they are meeting the skill needs of the country. She also mentioned the new post-16 skills and initiation strategy, the transformation of the apprenticeship levy, and the focus on mental health support for students. Several other MPs from the Staffordshire region, including Leigh Ingham, Gareth Snell, and David Williams, also contributed to the debate, highlighting the importance of higher education institutions in their local communities and the need for continued support and investment in the sector.