Report to predict fall in third level students
A new report yet to be published is painting a grim picture for third level colleges because of a dramatic fall in the number of full-time students.
It is reported that for every 100 young people in the 16-19 age group, there will only be 81 third level students in the year 2010, compared to 100 in 2000.
Worst hit will be the midlands where the fall will be far more dramatic at the end of the decade.
The report suggests that the shortfall could be made up by increasing the number of mature students gaining entry.
