Andy Burnham’s interest in driving devolution and rethinking the way the government works could give universities the opportunity to help reshape the tertiary system if he becomes prime minister, according to two Manchester vice-chancellors.
Burnham, former mayor of Greater Manchester, looks likely to become the next UK prime minister, following Keir Starmer’s resignation.
While Burnham has been vocal about the need to build a post-16 education system that isn’t dominated by universities – even referencing this in his victory speech after winning the Makerfield by-election – Manchester-based higher education leaders say they don’t believe the University of Cambridge graduate is anti-university.
Malcolm Press, vice-chancellor of Manchester Metropolitan University, said Burnham was “very engaged” with the university sector during his time as mayor. As well as consulting with university leaders, he would regularly meet with students’ unions and other student groups.
Burnham also has a “good grasp” on the challenges universities are facing. “He won’t always agree, but he’ll listen,” Press said.
