Universities Wales looks forward to working with new Minister for Further Education and Higher Education

"We would like to congratulate Vikki Howells on her appointment as Minister for Further and Higher Education and Lynne Neagle on her continued role as Cabinet Secretary for Education.  

"We have been fortunate to have a constructive, positive relationship with the Cabinet Secretary who has worked with us to recognise the challenges to universities in Wales and championed Welsh higher education internationally.  

"This is a decisive moment for education in Wales; not just for the urgent financial pressures we face but also what we risk to lose. 

"With higher education participation in Wales the lowest in the UK, we risk losing opportunities for people to realise their potential. And the pressures our institutions face put at risk the potential for life-changing research and innovation activity that can chart a path through some of our biggest obstacles including climate change and pressures on the health service.  

"We look forward to working with the Minister and Cabinet Secretary to tackle these challenges and ensure that, through collaboration with government and others, we can unlock Wales’ potential, safeguard our local communities and drive economic growth."