Professor Michael Scott, Vice-Chancellor of Glyndwr University, at the launch of WEA Cymru
Glyndŵr University hosted the official launch of the new Workers’ Educational Association Cymru today (May 1).
The newly established WEA Cymru is a result of the merger between WEA South Wales and Coleg Harlech WEA North Wales in January 2014 to form the largest provider of adult community education in Wales.
It was hosted by Deputy Minister for Skills and Technology, Ken Skates AM, and featured an address from Professor Michael Scott, Glyndŵr University’s Vice-Chancellor.
The WEA in Wales (WEA Cymru) is a voluntary movement committed to the provision of educational opportunities for all adults, especially those outside traditional education provision.
It provides access to education for adults from all background but with the focus particularly on those who have missed out on learning or who need a second chance.
Professor Michael Scott, Vice-Chancellor of Glyndwr University, said: “I can’t tell you how thrilled I am about the launch of the WEA here at Glyndwr University.
“We would not exist without the WEA. All of my working life has been spent with students who have come from non-traditional backgrounds and these are the people who are at the centre of the WEA’s attention.
“Glyndŵr University is a working class university and we have students here who would never have dreamed of, or had the opportunity, to study in higher education many years ago. This has all followed on from the work which the WEA have been doing for over 100 years.”
Rob Humphreys, chair of the board of governors of WEA Cymru, said: “It’s our privilege to be hosted by Glyndwr University. One of the aims of the Workers’ Educational Association is to become close to the communities which we serve in Wales. If we become as embedded in the communities of North East Wales to the extent which Glyndwr University has we will have achieved a great deal.”
Ken Skates AM said: “The merger of these two long established institutions will create the biggest adult learning organisation in Wales, helping many adults to access learning and training opportunities to fulfil their potential.
“We believe in collaborative working, sharing expertise and resources and, where possible, achieving efficiencies. This merger represents a clear commitment to learning, providing us with a sound foundation for the future of adult community learning in Wales.
“I wish the Workers’ Educational Association Cymru every success for the future.”
Maggi Dawson, chief executive officer of WEA Cymru, said: “Education, at whatever age, changes people’s lives and allows them to take control over their destinies. It is a cost effective method for overcoming inequalities and promoting social mobility and inclusion.
“There has never been a more important time to invest in education, with high levels of unemployment and worrying levels of poverty in Wales. The UK is falling behind our European counterparts in adult education participation in learning and the WEA has a key role in combating this.”
