We, the undersigned, are opposed to the recommendations set out in the review of the Sussex Language Institute, and in particular the recommendation that the SLI should cease to offer its own degree awarding activity from 2010 entry. Withdrawing modern languages degree programmes would be a further blow to the academic diversity of the University and potentially the loss of an extremely valuable and important department. Integrating modern languages into other degree programmes is not a satisfactory solution. It would not allow students to achieve the same level of accomplishment and experience, and would present a dangerous threat to the future of languages at Sussex. Moreover, now that foreign languages are compulsory in primary schools, the number of modern languages applicants will undoubtably rise again across Universities in the UK. And as many of these Universities are currently withdrawing modern languages programmes, Sussex has the opportunity to carve out a niche for itself by holding onto the department. This long term view will not only benefit the students, but also the University. We therefore demand that the University Management does not withdraw modern languages degree programmes.

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