Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Future of campus in balance pending review result
SCOTLAND’S Rural College has said it is committed to delivering education in Fife but not necessarily it its current home.
SRUC principal Professor Wayne Powell said he could not guarantee the future of the Elmwood campus in Cupar until the outcome of a funding review was known.
Professor Powell was attempting to quell months of uncertainty surrounding the college’s plans for the town following the withdrawal of Fife College last summer and a reduction in course and the numbers of students.
During a visit to Elmwood, Professor Powell hosted discussions with staff and students to explain the position.
The commitment to Fife has been welcomed by the area’s MP Stephen Gethins and MSP Willie Rennie, although Mr Rennie warned the current issues would take a long time to resolve.
Prof Powell said: “I acknowledge the uncertainty that exists around the future of Elmwood campus but want to make it clear that we value the huge expertise and commitment of colleagues and students at the campus and that we will be continuing to deliver in Fife.”
He added: “Whether or not we remain at the current Elmwood building long term is dependent on a number of issues, such as the outcome of the current Scottish Funding Council review of local education provision, future student numbers and the ideas and feedback we gather locally during this vital period of engagement on our new strategy.”