Hansard

On behalf of the Scottish Green Party, I welcome Ben Macpherson’s appointment as Minister for Higher and Further Education. It is a critical appointment at a time when Scotland’s tertiary education system stands on the cusp of significant reform. I also recognise Graeme Dey’s power of work and leadership in that area, which has gotten us to this point.

The Tertiary Education and Training (Funding and Governance) (Scotland) Bill presents an opportunity to reshape how we support learners, educators and institutions. We welcome the bill’s intention to simplify the funding landscape and strengthen the role of the Scottish Funding Council. The proposed statutory framework for apprenticeships and work-based learning is a step forward, but it must be matched by a commitment to fair work, inclusive access and climate-conscious skills development. We are particularly focused on ensuring that the bill delivers for learners who have been historically underserved, such as those in rural communities, disabled students and those from low-income backgrounds.

The Scottish Green Party will continue to advocate for robust student support mechanisms and for a system that prioritises public good over market forces. We note the bill’s provisions on governance reform, including the creation of an apprenticeship committee and new expectations for council membership. Those changes must embed transparency and ensure that learners, staff and communities have a meaningful voice in decision making.

Ben Macpherson brings experience and a thoughtful approach to the role. We look forward to working constructively with him to ensure that the legislation delivers a tertiary education system that is fairer, greener and more resilient.