Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston has praised the pioneering work of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig after visiting the Gaelic medium college during his autumn surgery tour of Skye.
Following a tour of the campus, as well as an update on plans for Sabhal Mòr Ostaig by Director of Development Donnie Munro, the Scottish Conservative MSP applauded the “innovative” vision behind their success.
Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston said: “Sabhal Mòr Ostaig is rightly recognised as the jewel in the crown of Gaelic medium higher and further education. It’s clear that this reputation for excellence is not just restricted to Scotland. Sabhal Mòr Ostaig commands international acclaim for its unique academic experience, all the while maintaining those strong local ties as the third largest employer on the Isle of Skye."
“The development of the new village at Kilbeg will be further testament to the innovative community focus of the Gaelic college, and I was pleased to see for myself that good progress is being made in delivering what will be the first purpose built village in Skye for a hundred years."
“We can all be proud of the gradual revitalisation of Gaelic culture and language in the Highlands and Islands over the last thirty years; the challenge now is to encourage the newer generation of Gaelic speakers and learners to really engage with what’s on offer. I recognise that there are ongoing challenges around the roll-out of Gaelic medium education in secondary schools around the Highland region, with many lacking that dedicated provision which is in place much more broadly in local primary schools."
“There are exciting new programmes coming out of Sabhal Mòr Ostaig, and I hope anyone with an interest in the language will get involved further”.
