Numbers of unemployed seeking third level education continue to soar
12 Jul 2011 03:16 PM
Figures published by the Department of Social Protection in their Annual Report from 2010 show that the demand for higher education from adults, especially those experiencing unemployment, continued to soar throughout last year.
The report reveals that in the 2009/2010 academic year a total of 20,808 people (10,457 at 2nd level, and 10,351 at 3rd level) were in receipt of a Back to Education allowance. This represents an overall increase of 79% on 2009 figures.
Commenting on the increase, AONTAS Director Berni Brady said 'The increase in demand for the Back to Education Allowance is in line with an increased demand for education opportunities from adults. With unemployment figures currently standing at 14.1%, many people are completely rethinking their career prospects, in some cases pursuing a degree course at third level.'
The Back to Education Allowance, originally known as the 'Third Level Allowance' was introduced in 1990 on a pilot scheme basis. The scheme allows participants to retain their social welfare payments while they participate in an approved course at second level or third level. Those availing of the BTEA also have their fees paid under the free fees initiative.
These figures come as statistics released last week by the CAO show a slight decrease in the number of mature student applicants this year. This year there were 12,321 mature applicants, 352 down on the same time last year.
'A number of factors may have an impact on the number of applicants for the BTEA in 2011', continued Ms Brady. 'Those on the Back to Education Allowance now no longer qualify for a Maintenance Grant, so may find it increasingly difficult to finance their education. In addition, the new Springboard initiative recently launched by the Department of Education and Skills offers free learning opportunities at third level to people who are unemployed but who may already have substantial work experience,' she said. Springboard includes a shorter qualifying period of six months.
'The scheme has been hugely beneficial in giving adults a second chance at their education. We welcomed the inclusion of the Scheme in the Programme for Government and hope that the government broaden the criteria to allow even more adults to avail of this opportunity.'
