The plight of students must not be forgotten

CELEBRATIONS take place in homes across the country when a son or daughter wins a place at university but too many of our young people today have good reason to feel ripped off and neglected by institutions once trusted to provide a world-class education.

Students are prepared to pay eyewatering tuition fees because they know they need outstanding skills to thrive in an increasingly competitive jobs market. They also look forward to making lifelong friends and pursuing passions old and new.

There has long been concern that many students get a raw deal, with universities eyeing undergraduates as a source of easy income. The pandemic has created a crisis in higher education and action is required to ensure their life chances are not derailed.

Students who had looked forward to learning from first-class academics now join online sessions; the 65 per cent of them who have not received any face-to-face teaching since the start of the pandemic will doubt whether they are getting value for money.

The isolation that Covid-19 has forced upon students means it is no surprise that nearly three-quarters of undergraduates say their mental health has declined. It is also deeply concerning that more than seven out of 10 students in the second year and above were still paying rent between March and July. Our Fair Deal For Students campaign calls for tuition fees for this academic year to be slashed, for refunds on rental accommodation, and for hardship funds.

Britain’s economy and the health of our democracy is determined by the quality of education our young citizens receive. They deserve the very best and for all our sakes their plight must not be forgotten.