Members' Business — S6M-11589 Kevin Stewart: Languages at the University of Aberdeen (BSL/English Interpreted Audio)

That the Parliament notes the concern expressed at proposals by the University of Aberdeen to reduce its language provision; understands the challenges that the languages department faces, including running a projected deficit of £1.6 million in 2023-24, and that the student intake has reportedly fallen dramatically following the UK’s exit from the EU; believes that languages offer significant value to individuals, to communities across Scotland, and to building relationships across the globe; recognises what it sees as the widespread support for retaining language teaching at the University of Aberdeen, including, it understands, from students, staff, alumni, Gaelic organisations and the consulates of several nations, and notes the calls for the University of Aberdeen to explore every possible option to retain language learning, including an expanded language offering for all interested students and degree courses.