An MSP has said the announcement of a new Scottish Education Exchange Programme in the First Minister’s Programme for Government will “open countless doors for young people”.
The Scottish Government is to launch a new exchange programme which would prioritise placements for disadvantaged young people, following an initial test and learn project this year.
Principal of the University of Glasgow, Professor Sir Anton Muscatelli, has also welcomed the programme, saying “the return on this investment could be immense” for young people across Scotland.
Tom Arthur, SNP MSP for Renfrewshire South, said: “The new Scottish Education Exchange Programme will transform the life experience and open doors for young people across Renfrewshire South.
“The First Minister’s ambition for young people in Scotland is clear, and the SNP Scottish Government is committed to ensuring that all youngsters, regardless of their background, have equal opportunities to learn and thrive.
“Programmes like this not only enrich the lives of young people by offering them a chance to study abroad and broaden their horizons, they also improve communities like Renfrewshire South.
“In the face of a Tory Government at Westminster which continues to deny young people participation in Erasmus+, and a Labour party which refuses to even acknowledge the damage caused by Brexit, the SNP is determined to support the youngest members of our society.
“I am thrilled to see the First Minister’s further investment in young people in Renfrewshire South.”