ColegauCymru has today welcomed the Minister for Education’s announcement to provide £469,000 of funding to ensure the availability of free face coverings in further education settings.
This however should not detract from financial shortfalls we are continuing to see in the sector. FE colleges across Wales are working hard to manage the fallout from previous funding cuts in addition to the now added financial pressures that have come as a result of the Covid19 crisis.
Tackling digital exclusion must be a priority for the Government, now more than ever. There continues to be significant shortfalls for the provision of ICT equipment, software and connectivity, and with it comes the risk of increasing the digital divide.
Chair of ColegauCymru’s Financial Directors’ Forum Mark Jones, said
“Whilst we welcome today’s announcement, our members remain concerned of the financial pressures facing the sector as we continue to accommodate a changing learning landscape post-Covid. A resilient financial base will be essential to the success of further education institutions going forward and we urge Welsh Government to provide long-term financial assurances to the sector.”
ColegauCymru Chief Executive Iestyn Davies added,
“The health and safety of both learners and staff remains our priority. Today’s announcement is welcomed, with the additional funding set to help make college campuses safer places in which to learn and work. We now look to Welsh Government to support us as we strive to ensure that all learners are given the same opportunities to reach their potential both now and in the future.”
Further Information
Welsh Government Press Release:
£2.3 million to provide face coverings for secondary school and further education learners
7 September 2020
