The Oxford Student
Every week we report how students blame colleges, the University and the Government for the 'hard life' that we lead. Increasing rents and spoil-sport regulations have been the principal targets of student complaint this term, and the issue of funding and top-up fees is never far off the agenda.
The Oxford Student believes that we as members of the University have every right to resist such moves. Yet as this week's Times Good University Guide suggests, Oxford students actually have a pretty cushy deal. There are problems that need to be addressed, certainly; the issue of accommodation fees in many colleges that are quite simply unaffordable is not one that should be idly ignored, and nor will it be. Yet the fact that Oxford has retained its position at the very pinnacle of British higher education is testament to the value the University places on its students, and its willingness to make a far greater financial investment in each and every one of them than most other institutions. We are privileged to attend a university in which a three-person teaching group appears a crowded setting, and in which we campaign to 'save the tute' that students elsewhere never had.
To many, the continued dominance of Oxford in the league tables may come as little surprise. One of the main problems with the University, both from an outsider's perspective and on the inside, is the elevated perception of their own superiority that many still hold. With reports out this week suggesting thousands of deserving state school pupils still failing to make the cut, there is no cause for arrogance and every cause for improvement. There is a case to be made for continued action, and also one for humility: we are not necessarily the cream of the academic world, although Oxford must drive to ensure that this becomes ever closer to reality. The fact that Oxford is increasing its spending on facilities shows that the University itself is beginning to recognise the threat of the 'brain drain' effect and the consequent need for action, with many American colleges far outstripping their British rivals. We as students should also continue to push for change, whilst acknowledging the privileged platform on which already we stand.
Clarification: A report on page two last week stated that investigations by OUSU's Ethics Committee had concluded the charity Life to use 'directive' methods. It was OUSU Council that reached this decision, after Ethics Committee was unable to reach a unanimous verdict. We apologise for our error.
20th May 2004