Universities UK and the National Union of Students have shown there is a 'degree gap' between black, Asian and minority ethnic students.

Both groups contributed to a joint report, calling for vice chancellor and academics to show 'strong leadership' making sure to encourage racially diverse student bodies.

The report concluded: “A change in culture is needed alongside a clear institutional message that issues of race will be dealt with as part of wider, strategic, organisational practice, not as an ‘add on’.”

Although there has been a rapid increase in black Asian and minority ethnic students in the past decade 71% of Asian students and 57% of black students gained an upper second or first in their degree compared to 81% of white students. Statists also show that black students are estimated to be one and a half times more likely to drop out compared to Asian or white students.
Amma Atteeq, president of the University of Aston’s student Union has stressed the importance of role models in universities and how universities should find more BAME role models.

“We know that stubborn gaps in attainment between certain ethnic groups are stopping some students from fulfilling their true potential. In particular, black students are much less likely to complete their studies, secure a first or upper second-class degree, or find graduate-level employment than their white peers. This is not right, and it must change.”

Image from Tim Hoggarth