Ensure Equal Funding for Part-Time and Distance Learning Students in Scotland

Ensure Equal Funding for Part-Time and Distance Learning Students in Scotland

The Issue

Part-time and distance learning students are consistently marginalised, receiving limited opportunities compared to their full-time counterparts. The disparity in financial support for these students, whether in full or in part, is glaringly evident when attempting to locate such opportunities on the Universities' website or within the broader UK context. A survey conducted for this student community at the University of Strathclyde revealed that 65.1% of those who took the survey indicated that they could not find any suitable funding opportunities, while 30.2% indicated that they found just a few. This inequality extends far beyond just funding, permeating every facet of the university experience.

It is crucial to recognise that these students should not be perceived as more privileged; many opt for these programs due to family and work commitments, caregiving responsibilities, health-related issues or the inability to relocate due to financial or social causes. These circumstances compound the stress of funding, potentially obstructing numerous deserving individuals from completing their studies, realising their aspirations, or pursuing their dreams. As a result, this campaign primarily seeks to raise awareness about this inequity and advocate for increased funding opportunities for current and future part-time and distance learning students.

It is worth noting that part-time students represent almost one-fifth of all Higher Education students in the United Kingdom.

In Scotland, the current funding system disproportionately benefits full-time students, leaving part-time and distance-learning students at a disadvantage.

Full-time students receive significantly more financial support than their part-time counterparts. We believe that every student, regardless of their mode of study, deserves equal access to funding opportunities. By addressing this issue, we can promote inclusivity in education and ensure that everyone has an equal chance to succeed. Let's urge the Scottish Government, Non-governmental organisations/ charitable bodies and educational institutions to review their funding policies and create a fairer system for all students. Sign this petition today to support equity in education funding in Scotland.

This petition had 127 supporters

The Issue

Part-time and distance learning students are consistently marginalised, receiving limited opportunities compared to their full-time counterparts. The disparity in financial support for these students, whether in full or in part, is glaringly evident when attempting to locate such opportunities on the Universities' website or within the broader UK context. A survey conducted for this student community at the University of Strathclyde revealed that 65.1% of those who took the survey indicated that they could not find any suitable funding opportunities, while 30.2% indicated that they found just a few. This inequality extends far beyond just funding, permeating every facet of the university experience.

It is crucial to recognise that these students should not be perceived as more privileged; many opt for these programs due to family and work commitments, caregiving responsibilities, health-related issues or the inability to relocate due to financial or social causes. These circumstances compound the stress of funding, potentially obstructing numerous deserving individuals from completing their studies, realising their aspirations, or pursuing their dreams. As a result, this campaign primarily seeks to raise awareness about this inequity and advocate for increased funding opportunities for current and future part-time and distance learning students.

It is worth noting that part-time students represent almost one-fifth of all Higher Education students in the United Kingdom.

In Scotland, the current funding system disproportionately benefits full-time students, leaving part-time and distance-learning students at a disadvantage.

Full-time students receive significantly more financial support than their part-time counterparts. We believe that every student, regardless of their mode of study, deserves equal access to funding opportunities. By addressing this issue, we can promote inclusivity in education and ensure that everyone has an equal chance to succeed. Let's urge the Scottish Government, Non-governmental organisations/ charitable bodies and educational institutions to review their funding policies and create a fairer system for all students. Sign this petition today to support equity in education funding in Scotland.

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