Alyn Smith, a former MP and MEP, has voiced his concerns about the funding for scholarships to the College of Europe. Alongside students Paul Anderson, Liam McLaughlin, and Annie Wenn, he emphasizes the importance of continuing this funding from the Scottish Government. Without it, many students may be deterred from attending the college, which could ultimately impact Scotland’s talent pool.
The funding for these scholarships has been a point of contention since 2010 when the Conservative UK Government drastically cut the number of funded places. Currently, only civil servants receive UK Government funding to study at the College. The Scottish Government has managed to maintain funding for three places per year, but there are growing fears that these scholarships may be eliminated.
In a joint statement, Smith and the College of Europe students highlight the necessity of having diplomats, civil servants, and politicians who are well-versed in the theoretical and practical aspects of the EU. They stress the importance of understanding the EU’s day-to-day processes and the implementation of its legislation. Losing these scholarships would be a significant loss for Scotland.
The College of Europe offers specialized master’s degree programs focused on European and EU studies in various fields such as law, politics, history, and economics. With tuition fees ranging from €27,000 to €29,000, it attracts nearly 500 students from across the EU and beyond. The college plays a crucial role in developing professionals with a deep understanding of the EU, benefiting both new member states and Western European students.
Smith argues that the expertise gained from studying at the College far outweighs the cost of the scholarships. He believes that investing in these scholarships is essential for Scotland’s interests, especially as the EU continues to play a prominent role post-Brexit. With the prospect of EU enlargement on the horizon, the Scottish Government should prioritize maintaining these scholarships to ensure a strong presence in Europe.
The College of Europe was founded in the aftermath of the 1948 Congress of Europe with the goal of fostering solidarity and mutual understanding among Western European nations. It aims to provide elite training to individuals who will uphold these values and serve as young executives for Europe.
In conclusion, the funding of scholarships to the College of Europe is crucial for Scotland’s future in the EU. Alyn Smith and the students emphasize the need for continued support from the Scottish Government to ensure that aspiring diplomats, civil servants, and politicians have the opportunity to receive top-notch education in European studies. Maintaining these scholarships will not only benefit individuals but also contribute to Scotland’s overall standing in Europe.