Roddick reaches out to UHI head over end of “vanity courses”

Emma Roddick, MSP for the Highlands and Islands, has reached out to Professor Todd Walker, head of the University of the Highlands and Islands, regarding his comments on removing so-called “vanity courses” from the curriculum.

Speaking about the move, Roddick said:

“While it is important to focus on education with a view to employment, the sole purpose of a university is not to support the economy. Removing access to courses will drive people, knowledge and creativity out of the region, exacerbating depopulation in the Highlands and Islands.

“Courses in every subject teach students valuable life skills and should not be axed because they don’t have a determined career path.

“I have reached out to Professor Walker for clarification as to what courses are considered ‘vanity courses’, and to express my concerns surrounding this move.

“I strongly believe that everyone should have equal access to education regardless of where in Scotland they live; it’s not fair to take these opportunities away from local people.”