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Peter Macmahon

Peter Macmahon

Herald Scotland

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Does Scotland have too many universities? The case for radical reform

Does Scotland have too many universities? The case for radical reform

A government is never stronger than after it has been elected, or re-elected. A statement which has become something of a cliché in politics, but...

thursday 5

Herald Scotland

Peter Macmahon

SNP's fifth term: continuity at Holyrood, but will education finally change?

The SNP’s return to power signals continuity, but questions remain over education reform. Peter MacMahon asks will John Swinney revive plans to...

21.05.2026 30

Herald Scotland

Peter Macmahon

How can a university funding review work when the core issue is forbidden?

Ministers have accepted that university funding is in trouble, yet the review they’ve launched excludes the most contentious issue of all: tuition...

30.01.2026 20

Herald Scotland

Peter Macmahon

The unthinkable truth: Scotland’s higher education is running out of road

Politicians love to talk about ‘tough decisions’ — but when it comes to Scotland’s universities , the hardest choice seems to be doing...

31.10.2025 30

Herald Scotland

Peter Macmahon

'The former FM squandered a great opportunity to change lives'

Education HQ columnist Peter McMahon examines Nicola Sturgeon's claims in Frankly on her record in education including the poverty-related attainment...

31.08.2025 30

Herald Scotland

Peter Macmahon