Rishi Sunak’s definition of a “low-value” degree – one that doesn’t lead to a graduate job, postgraduate studies or starting a business – has a very narrow focus (Sunak to force English universities to cap numbers of students on ‘low-value’ degrees, 14 July).
It takes no account of first-in-family students, for whom attending their local university is a massive achievement. Most of these aren’t Russell Group universities, but they are institutions valued by their local community. Many taking “low-value” degrees will be working class, ethnic minority, disabled or mature students, some of whom are unable to relocate for their higher education or any subsequent professional role due to a lack of resources or because of familial commitments.
