Jacqui Smith's speech at 2026 Universities UK conference

Skills Minister Jacqui Smith reaffirmed her commitment to supporting UK universities, highlighting their role in driving economic growth and community development. She emphasised the sector’s financial stability and quality assurance while underscoring its contribution to the economy, including generating over £26 billion in exports in 2024. Smith also noted the global standing of UK universities, with four institutions ranked in the global top 10 and 16 in the top 100.

Smith announced plans to increase participation in higher-level learning, targeting two-thirds of young people by age 25 through degrees, higher technical qualifications, and apprenticeships. She stressed the importance of technical and vocational education, citing that one in three full-time undergraduates already pursue such courses. The government aims to expand Level 4 and 5 qualifications to meet future skills demands.

The Minister highlighted the Prime Minister’s focus on a place-based approach to growth, ensuring universities contribute to local economic needs. She described universities as ‘economic engines’ that must help distribute opportunity across all regions, not just prosperous areas. Smith also referenced recent reforms, including new technical education pathways for 14-year-olds and V Levels combining vocational and academic study.

Smith concluded by rejecting the notion that further education and technical pathways are inferior, stating the government’s commitment to raising standards in all post-16 education routes. She emphasised the need for multiple pathways to address skills shortages and support nearly a million young people not in education, training, or employment.