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Minister Michelle Donelan engages with professional bodies on COVID-19

Date: January 12 - 2021
QAA yesterday convened a discussion between the Minister for Universities in England, Michelle Donelan, and senior representatives of 17 professional, statutory and regulatory bodies (PSRBs), along with Universities UK, to address new challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Professional bodies discussed a range of barriers affecting progression and graduation in accredited programmes, in order to ensure students are able to complete their awards this summer and progress into the workplace with continued assurance of high standards and competencies.

QAA Chief Executive, Douglas Blackstock said: 'Throughout the pandemic, QAA has engaged with PSRBs on behalf of our members and with a focus on ensuring students can progress towards the profession they have chosen. These bodies play an important role in protecting public safety and we are grateful that they have been able to adapt flexibly during the pandemic.

'QAA has worked with professional bodies for many years and will continue to work collaboratively with them, and our members, so that students can achieve professional competencies and learning outcomes and so that standards are maintained.'

Universities Minister, Michelle Donelan said: 'It is absolutely vital that students are able to graduate from their courses this year and achieve the meaningful qualifications that they need to kickstart their careers. 

'Education has been our priority from the start of this pandemic, and we will continue to work closely with QAA, Universities UK and sector bodies, to identify and address any challenges they face during this difficult time.'