5. Statement by the Minister for International Relations and Welsh Language: Coronavirus (COVID-19)

Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 3:00 pm on 10 June 2020.

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Photo of Vikki Howells Vikki Howells Labour 3:00, 10 June 2020

Minister, thank you for your statement today. I have some questions relating to the Welsh language element of your portfolio. Firstly, with regard to Welsh language education, I'm just wondering what discussions you might have had with the Minister for Education around the reopening of more provision for pupils who attend Welsh-medium schools, and also, the efforts to tackle digital exclusion there. I think, obviously there are issues across the board, but particularly for pupils who come from English-speaking families, there is that extra barrier. So I'd be keen to know what work you've done to try to overcome that.

My second and final question is around the announcement from the Coleg Cymraeg that it's extending its incentive scholarship scheme worth £1,500 over three years to include every student starting university in September 2020 who chooses to study at least 40 credits through the medium of Welsh. This is a really great initiative. What work is being done both with schools, with colleges and with our higher education institutions to raise awareness of this programme?