Scottish Government consultation on merger of UHI North Highland, UHI Outer Hebrides and UHI West Highland launches
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A formal consultation into the merger of three UHI colleges across the north has been launched.
The boards of management at UHI North Highland, UHI Outer Hebrides and UHI West Highland formally approved the merger proposal and business case last year.
It will see the colleges, which have 19 learning centres and campuses across the north Highlands and islands, form the UHI North, West and Hebrides.
The new college is expected to transfer to its new status on August 1.
Under the Further and Higher Education (Scotland) Act 1992 the merger requires approval by Scottish ministers.
The consultation can be accessed at www.gov.scot/publications/consultation-rural-islands-college-merger-proposal with a closing date for responses of May 5.
Derek Lewis, chairman of the transition board, said: “The launch of the Scottish Government consultation and formation of the transition board are two important milestones for this merger, which brings together three outstanding colleges and their respective teams.
"We encourage stakeholders to provide feedback on our plans through the Scottish Government consultation, which follows two extensive consultations carried out by our project team to inform the development of our merger proposal and business case. While that consultation takes place, a huge amount of work continues in all three colleges to prepare for our planned August 1 vesting date, and I want to personally thank staff for their commitment, enthusiasm and effort in getting us to where we are today.
“UHI North, West and Hebrides will have the scale and expertise to meet the needs of traditional and emerging sectors, providing the learning and training needs for the workforce, now and in the future. It will also play a key role in attracting people to live, work and study in our rural and island communities.”
