Professor Peter McKiernan, Department of Management, is to play a key role in an ambitious educational reform project in Scotland, which has just been unveiled. The prestigious appointment follows on from last month’s news that he was made a fellow of the European Academy of Management.
The recent regionalisation of the further education sector and the post-16 reforms represent one of the most significant packages of educational change that Scotland has ever seen. The innovative approach brings efficiency gains and provides a key skill framework necessary to promote economic growth.
The sector will be reorganised from over 40 colleges to 13 regions and Mike Russell, the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Life Long Learning, has named Professor McKiernan as the chair of the new West Lothian region. He has joined other notable appointments, including former First Minister Henry McLeish, who will chair the new Glasgow region.
Professor McKiernan, who sits on the main board of Scotland’s Colleges, said, “The changes are essential if Scotland’s wealth of talent is to be harnessed effectively. The new structure will enhance economic growth and social progress. It will prevent the overlapping of activities and help establish a clear focus for each region.
“The Cabinet Minister has listened carefully to each view over the last year and I am delighted to have this exciting opportunity to help him achieve his objective for Scotland.”
The key elements of the new regional board will be to: