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University fundraising set for boost

Press release issued: 20 December 2004

Professional fundraising operations could become the norm in UK universities following the Government's acceptance of advice from the task force on voluntary giving in higher education.

Professional fundraising operations could become the norm in UK universities following the Government’s acceptance of advice from the task force on voluntary giving in higher education.

Led by Professor Eric Thomas, Vice-Chancellor at Bristol University, the task force said in its May 2004 report that philanthropy could generate a much more substantial funding stream for universities.  That would mean setting up highly effective fundraising offices – something many universities would need help in doing.

Now the Chancellor has announced a pilot match-funding scheme, with universities and the Government sharing the costs of establishing the machinery of fundraising.

Professor Thomas said: “No Government is likely to be in a position to increase university funding sufficiently through general taxation.  At the same time, UK universities must have more money if they are to compete internationally.  Higher tuition fees are part of the answer, but so is philanthropy.

“American universities are way ahead of us in this regard.  It’s time the UK caught up, but it won’t do so unless experienced professionals – not to mention vice-chancellors – lead the fundraising effort.

“Many universities will need financial help to get fundraising offices up and running.  It’s great news that the Government is going to provide it.”

The £7.5 million pilot will last for three years from April 2005.

 

 

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