UHI Rural and Islands College merger proposal: consultation analysis

4. Overview Of Responses

4.1 Views on college merger (question 1)

• The following themes emerged from those who were supportive of the proposed merger: financial sustainability and resilience; course choice; benefits for students; benefits for rural areas; benefits for the new college; stakeholder relationships; and innovation.
• The following themes emerged from those who were against the proposed merger: a financial decision; concern around individual colleges; challenges of / for rural areas; and communications.

4.2 Views on impact of merger (question 2)

• Those citing a positive impact of the merger on further and higher education provision and delivery in the Highlands and Islands noted: improving courses / wider curriculum offer; benefits for students; benefits for staff; efficiencies and financial sustainability; benefits for the Highlands; green skills; Gaelic education / Gaelic community; and provided some recommendations going forward.
• The following themes emerged from those who felt there would be a negative impact on further and higher education provision and delivery in the Highlands and Islands region: bureaucracy; online delivery; reputation; and employers’ / training needs.

4.3 Views on rationale of merger (question 3)

• 9 respondents strongly agreed with the rationale for the merger as set out for the Board, 5 agreed, 2 disagreed and 3 strongly disagreed. The remaining respondents did not answer the question or did not express a view.