Higher education funding is a huge issue this year. Not only has a government committee (the Browne committee) been set up to review the whole funding system, but, crucially, it is a General Election year. This means that we can make tuition fees an election issue: 7 million students equal 7 million potential voters in the UK. We CAN make change happen.

What is the "fees issue"?

The Browne committee have been tasked with reviewing how much students pay for their degree, and what loans and grants they get. The Russell Group of universities (which includes Manchester) and business leaders have called for the cap on fees to be raised from £3,250 to £5,000, £7,000, £10,000 or even removed completely.

Why do we care?

Raising fees would discourage poorer students from applying, and could have a serious effect on uptake of subjects that don't result in highly paid careers. A market system would mean that entry to top universities such as Manchester would be at a price few could afford - why should only the rich get the best education? At the moment the average student leaves University with debts of £23,500! So...

NOW is the time to act to stop it going any higher!!!

What can I do?

Right now, you can sign a letter to the Browne committee urging them to consider all the options and the effect each would have on students. Read the letter HERE.

How can I find out more?

Contact the Union's Academic Affairs Officer Kate Little at academic@umsu.manchester.ac.uk to keep up to date with developments and future events.

This campaign follows on from a national campaign of Town Takeovers - find out more at Funding Our Future