RGU and NESCol publish joint manifesto

Robert Gordon University (RGU) and North-East Scotland College (NESCol) have published a joint manifesto outlining ten priorities for Scotland’s next Parliament to strengthen skills, support economic growth and expand opportunities for learners at all stages of life.

The manifesto sets out actions designed to ensure that Aberdeen and the North-East’s unparalleled potential to support national economic transformation is realised. It also highlights the partnership between RGU and NESCol as a national example of how joined‑up tertiary education can anchor regional growth and unlock opportunity for learners and employers.

Supporting students and lifelong learning

RGU and NESCol are calling for an 80% tertiary participation rate across the life course, recognising the critical role that colleges, universities and apprenticeships play in Scotland’s future workforce.

Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Steve Olivier, said:

“Our partnership shows what is possible when Scotland’s tertiary system works seamlessly across university and college boundaries. Together, we can create opportunities that unlock talent, strengthen communities and support regional transformation.”

Driving economic development and skills

To support regions experiencing major economic transition, including the North-East, the manifesto calls for:

• Increased investment in retraining programmes aligned with Scotland’s energy transition and diversification.
• A modernised approach to Graduate Apprenticeships, replacing rigid frameworks with more responsive, employer‑designed pathways.
• A new Applied Research, Knowledge Exchange and Innovation Fund to boost SME productivity, create high‑value jobs and grow regional innovation ecosystems.

Neil Cowie, NESCol Principal and Chief Executive, said:

“NESCol is proud of its part in underpinning traditional industries of the North-East and we are enthusiastic about the way in which our College is driving growth in new and emerging sectors. This is a period of real change in our region and country, and collaboration will be key to unlocking the potential that we see all around us.”

Securing financial sustainability

The manifesto urges the next Scottish Parliament to commit to:

• A multi‑year sustainable funding settlement for colleges and universities.
• Progress toward per‑student funding parity with comparable provision in England.
• A commitment not to introduce an international student levy, which could cost Scottish universities an estimated £85 million annually.

A shared commitment to Scotland’s future

Together, RGU and NESCol emphasise that Scotland’s universities and colleges are essential to national ambitions for economic growth, social mobility and a thriving, high‑skilled workforce.

The institutions stand ready to work with the next Scottish Government to deliver these priorities and ensure Scotland’s learners, and its regions, have the support they need to succeed.

Download the full manifesto - Skills. Growth. Opportunity: Ten priorities for Scotland’s learning and workforce future