Greens call for U-turn on ‘devastating’ course closures
The party’s arts and culture spokesperson, Q Manivannan MSP, has lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament opposing the closure of the undergraduate Jewellery and Silversmithing, Textiles and Performance Costume courses, which has already achieved cross-party support.
The courses are due to close to new admissions in 2027 and be taught out over the following four years. Members of staff have spoken out about the lack of support from university higher administration, and the social media channels of the relevant departments have posted a blank white page, in response to Edinburgh University’s instruction to not discuss the cuts.
Q is in touch with 180 alumni, and is supporting Craft Scotland’s campaign against the closures and has urged MSPs from across Parliament to back their motion. A public petition launched by the organisation has already received more than 10,000 signatures.
Scottish Greens spokesperson for Culture, Q Manivannan MSP said:
“Edinburgh College of Art has nurtured generations of extraordinarily talented artists, makers and designers, these proposed closures would be a devastating loss for Edinburgh, and for Scotland’s cultural life.
“These courses teach specialist skills, develop creative talent and provide routes into sustainable careers across craft, fashion, theatre, film and television.
“At a time when so much of our lives and work is becoming automated, human creativity, practical expertise and cultural knowledge, all taught through these courses, have never been more valuable.
“These are the last three craft-based undergraduate programmes remaining at ECA. Not only do we lose these precious courses, but we know all too well that when specialist teaching, workshops and communities of expertise like these are dismantled, they are almost impossible to recreate.
“The University must listen to students, staff, alumni and Scotland’s creative sector and reverse this deeply short-sighted decision."
Q added:
“I have lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament so MSPs from every party can demonstrate their support for the campaign.
“I also want Parliament’s Education Committee to consider what scrutiny is needed of decisions that could cause lasting damage to Scotland’s educational and cultural landscape.
“The strength of public support shows how much these courses mean to people in Scotland and around the world. I encourage everyone who values our craft heritage and creative future to sign the petition and ask their MSPs to stand with the campaign.”