The impact of arts and humanities courses on students cannot be underestimated, the Universities Minister has said during a visit to Birmingham.
Chris Skidmore MP was given a tour of Birmingham City University where he attended a piano concerto at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire and was shown design work at the School of Jewellery.
The Minister was also given a preview of a collaboration between students from Seoul High School and their counterparts from the Conservatoire’s strings department.
Mr Skidmore said: “Birmingham City University is the 40th university I have visited in my capacity as a Minister and it is fantastic to see such creative spaces dedicated to arts education.
“I’ve long been a champion of arts and humanities subjects and seeing first-hand the creativity and talent on show today only serves to reinforce my passion for this.
“Universities are here to transform lives and provide opportunities for students from all walks of life.
“The arts have an important role to play in creating these pathways and opportunities, and I will continue my dedication to make sure that voice is heard in government, parliament and beyond.”
After touring the university’s facilities the Minister held a roundtable discussion with students from the institution, who asked questions around funding, mental health and post-study visas.
He told the group: “Things always change and move with policy but it’s only by being face to face with students that we can have these conversations and make sure we shape things to help improve lives.
“I’m always grateful for the opportunity to meet with students.”
