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The University of Reading and Witan International College – University of Reading

The University of Reading has agreed in principle, subject to final discussions now in progress, to take over the operation of Witan International College (WIC), which is based at London Road, Reading, in conjunction with acquiring the agreed assets and liabilities of the College. The Trustees and Directors of WIC recently undertook a review of the College and concluded that it does not have sufficient resources to continue as an independent educational establishment. Following an approach to the University, agreement has been reached in principle for the University to take over the operation of WIC, to ensure that WIC's educational commitments to its students can be met. The University of Reading will ensure that students already enrolled on BA, MA and Licentiate courses are able to complete their courses as expected. The last of the presently registered students are expected to graduate in March 2008. No further students for BA or Licentiate courses will be recruited although it is expected that MA students will be admitted in 2004/5. Students at the College will be able to take up residential accommodation in University of Reading Halls of Residence, where required. They will also be able to use the University's sports and library facilities and will be Associate Members of the Students' Union. Staff at Witan International College will transfer to a dedicated new charitable company which will be specifically set up by the University to take responsibility for the College. Every effort will be made to ensure continuity of teaching and support for the College students. End Notes to editors: Witan International College (formerly known as Gyosei International College) is a private College and a registered educational charity. In 1989 it acquired part of the University of Reading's land and buildings at London Road and the College was officially inaugurated at London Road in May 1990. The University of Reading still operates at the remainder of the London Road site, and in particular it is the base for the University's very successful School of Continuing Education. Witan International College offers undergraduate degrees, mainly in business studies combined with culture or language studies, and also an MA in business and culture studies. In addition, short courses in English and in international career skills are available. There are some 200 registered students at the College. For media enquiries only, please contact Craig Hillsley, the University of Reading's press officer, on 0118 378 7388 or email c.hillsley@rdg.ac.uk