Supporting graduates in a Covid-19 economy

The impact of Covid-19 will have very significant economic and workforce implications that will be felt for many years to come.
While at present the true extent of the economic fallout cannot be gauged, all the indicators appear to suggest that the UK is going to face a severe and deep recession accompanied by sharp rise in unemployment. This presents unique challenges for those students graduating in 2020 – but also for graduates who finished their courses in recent years and who are progressing their early careers.

As such, it is vital that policymakers consider what more can be done to support graduates during this challenging time and ensure they are well placed to help the UK recover and rebuild following Covid-19.

Read the full set of proposals. 



Universities have been working hard to put in place all possible measures to help support students and recent graduates. Within the space of a couple of weeks, university careers services moved their entire programme of activities and events online, sparking new and innovative ways of working with employers, students and graduates.

Examples of what universities have been doing in response can be found in this collection of case studies (PDF), and can also be downloaded for use on social media (JPEG and GIF).

News

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UUK response to the government’s latest January return plans for university students

30 December 2020
UUK has responded to the Secretary of State for Education Gavin Williamson's latest announcement on the return of students to universities in January 2021.

UUK response on Turing Scheme for students to work and study abroad

26 December 2020
UUK has welcomed further details of the Turing Scheme for students to work and study abroad

Blog

Students

Pathways and flexibility are key to supporting lifelong learning

18 December 2020
Dave Phoenix, Vice-Chancellor of London South Bank University, argues that if we are to facilitate lifelong learning and avoid ‘educational dead ends’, universities must play a core role in qualification design.
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Funding for adult learners will boost the UK's economic recovery

30 September 2020
UUK's Julie Tam takes a look at the prime minister's announcement of a lifetime skills allowance, and what it means for the economy, society, and individuals.