23/01/2026
Consultation Launches To Broaden Access To Higher Education
Widening participation seeks to ensure people from underrepresented groups can access higher education, progress through their studies and fully benefit from the opportunities it offers. The proposals build on previous access-led work and place sustained achievement and improved outcomes at the centre of the learner journey.
The Minister said: "Higher education equips people with the skills to get good jobs, which provides a decent income for workers and families. So widening participation in higher education is central to an inclusive economy.
"Building on extensive stakeholder engagement and research this refreshed approach places equality, collaboration, and learner-centred support at its heart.
"I would like to thank all those who contributed to the development of these proposals, in particular representatives of the Widening Participation Forum and Wider Stakeholder Network.
"This consultation is your opportunity to help us put these principles and proposals into practice, and better support learners who face additional barriers. It is an opportunity to shape a more inclusive and ambitious future – one where every learner, has the chance to thrive."
The consultation is open for 12 weeks and closes on 16 April 2026. Full details are available at: www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-approach-widening-participation-higher-education
The Minister said: "Higher education equips people with the skills to get good jobs, which provides a decent income for workers and families. So widening participation in higher education is central to an inclusive economy.
"Building on extensive stakeholder engagement and research this refreshed approach places equality, collaboration, and learner-centred support at its heart.
"This consultation is your opportunity to help us put these principles and proposals into practice, and better support learners who face additional barriers. It is an opportunity to shape a more inclusive and ambitious future – one where every learner, has the chance to thrive."
The consultation is open for 12 weeks and closes on 16 April 2026. Full details are available at: www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-approach-widening-participation-higher-education
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