Skye college praised by MSP
The pioneering work of Gaelic medium college Sabhal Mòr Ostaig has been praised by Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston during his autumn surgery tour of Skye.
Following a look round the campus and an update on plans for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig by director of development Donnie Munro, the Scottish Conservative MSP applauded the ‘innovative’ vision behind its success.
He said: ‘Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is rightly recognised as the jewel in the crown of Gaelic medium higher and further education.
‘It’s clear this reputation for excellence is not just restricted to Scotland. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig commands international acclaim for its unique academic experience, all the while maintaining strong local ties as the third largest employer on Skye.
‘The development of the new village at Kilbeg will be further testament to the innovative community focus of the Gaelic college and I was pleased to see good progress is being made in delivering what will be the first purpose-built village in Skye for 100 years.
‘We can all be proud of the gradual revitalisation of Gaelic culture and language in the Highlands and Islands over the last 30 years.
‘The challenge now is to encourage the newer generation of Gaelic speakers and learners to engage with what’s on offer.’
During his visit, Mr Johnston recognised there were challenges around the roll-out of Gaelic medium education in secondary schools around the Highland region, with many lacking the dedicated provision which is in place much more broadly in primary schools.
‘There are exciting new programmes coming out of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig and I hope anyone with an interest in the language will get involved further,’ he added.