Scottish government has no plans to abolish university rectors

The Scottish government has “no intention at all of abolishing the position of rector” at Scotland’s universities, education secretary Angela Constance has said.

Writing in an open letter published by Holyrood Magazine, the education secretary sought to reassure former rectors of Edinburgh University, some of whom expressed concern about the provisions of theHigher Education Governance Bill.

The bill, currently progressing through Holyrood, makes provisions about the composition of and appointment to the governing bodies and academic boards of higher education institutions.

It has been criticised by an influential business lobby group, and some universities have voiced concerns that the bill could disadvantage them financially.

Ms Constance wrote: “Over the summer, we have begun discussions with everyone with an interest in Higher Education, including current and past rectors, to gather views on how a model for elected chairs of the governing bodies in all of our institutions might work in practice.

“As the Bill progresses, I hope those discussions continue and I will listen to all constructive views and suggestions made.

“The Scottish Government will not be involved in the appointment of an individual elected chair in any institution.”

She added: “Ultimately, I see this Bill as creating a framework which strengthens, not weakens our Higher Education sector, its institutions and traditions.

“To achieve that, it needs to be meaningful legislation which opens up the architecture of our institutions to be more diverse, inclusive and representative. Far from being anti-democratic, our aim is to enable every voice on campus to be heard.

“These are concepts I am sure all former rectors of Edinburgh University can identify with and share, and I would welcome the opportunity to discuss the Bill’s proposals with them more fully in person.”