Higher education 'key' to success

The report said higher education could help Wales' economic recovery

The future economic success of Wales could be jeopardised without extra investment in higher education, an independent report has warned.

The assembly government-commissioned review also expressed concern about a funding gap in higher education in Wales compared to England and Scotland.

The review, led by Bangor University vice-chancellor Prof Merfyn Jones, looked at the role of higher education.

Education minister Jane Hutt is due to respond on Tuesday.

The report concluded: "As a group we were deeply concerned about this issue but were also realistic about the scope for its resolution.

"Closing the gap may take a number of years and is particularly challenging in light of the current economic climate. However, on this hangs nothing less than the future reputation and prosperity of Wales.

"We believe that how we address these challenges is key to the wealth and well-being of Wales, both as Wales emerges from recession and into the long term.

Economic recovery

"On Wales' ability to capitalise on the potential of higher education rests our ability to compete economically, and fulfil our potential as a young devolved country with high ambitions."

The report said higher education could become a cornerstone of Wales' economic recovery, but only if a new deal between the sector and the assembly government led to more and better quality research.

There was also a warning that an attempt to attract and retain more students from poorer backgrounds had lost some of its momentum.

The review team presented the first part of its report, looking at student debt and widening access, to the education minister last year.

The second phase of the group's review looked at the purpose and role of higher education in Wales.