Reviews & Analysis

The reduced numbers of students In higher education likely to result from demographic changes in the 1990s will have to be countered by changes in attainment and participation rates.

The demographic changes predicted for the 1990s may not have the effects that had been expected as there will be a rising proportion of students from non-traditional backgrounds.

Employers may have to pay a high price for not taking the responsibility for training their own staff in information technology skills.

The science of 'biotechnology' will be judged during the 1990s by what new products are launched, not by promises. But there will still be a demand for qualified workers.

Demographics and a harsh economic climate are changing the way governments approach higher education. Finance and other support are being sought from the private sector.

Traditional academic opportunities and freedoms are not the flavour of the nineties in Britain. What, then are the prospects?

Supply and demand for graduates in the United Kingdom seem set on on convergent paths for the next decade, but graduate unemployment may persist.

Business links between Europe and the United Kingdom are increasing and barriers to mobility of labour are coming down. There are new opportunities for both employers and individuals.

Pressures on the crowded and expensive south-east corner of England are leading to 'satellite offices' and longdistance commuting. Many companies see relocation as the only answer.

Industrial concerns may have to rethink their in-house training programmes — or pay dearly for the skilled workers they need.