Getting a job in Northern Ireland is getting harder for those with no qualifications, graduates at Limavady College of Further and Higher Education were today told by Professor Richard Barnett, acting Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ulster.

Speaking at the College's graduation ceremony, Professor Barnett said that employment projections from the Department for Employment and Learning anticipate a decline of 30% by 2010 in job opportunities for those with no qualifications.

Professor Richard Barnett told the 117 graduates: "In other words, the future will belong to those with qualifications and skills."

But, he warned, the Government's proposed top-up fees for university students could stop many potential high-fliers entering higher education.

"The Government must recognise that debt aversion is a greater roadblock to participation in higher education in Northern Ireland than in any other part of the UK. It must also accept the evidence that the proposed fees, without a proper student maintenance package, will significantly affect participation from average middle class families as well as those from social disadvantaged groups," he added.

During the past decade, he said, there has been a 500% increase in student debt according to research from Barclay's Bank, and the debt burden is expected to triple by 2010.

Professor Barnett said the University would like to see partly-deferred fees for part-time students whose needs have been historically under-recognised in legislation. "Academic ability and not affordability must govern access to higher education in Northern Ireland", he added.

Going to university can open the way to a glittering future, he added. "Northern Ireland graduates have the second highest employment rate - at 90% - of the 13 UK regions, and research shows that a degree brings a much higher financial return, wider career choice, better health and greater cultural and civic involvement."

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