UK experts warned that cutting language courses at universities and schools risks undermining social mobility and vocational skills, pointing to pressures on humanities departments. The report cites the University of Exeter telling over 70 language academics they were at risk of redundancy as it seeks to cut 150 full-time posts. It also references a proposal by the University of Nottingham to become the first Russell Group university to offer no language degrees, adding to concerns about shrinking access for working-class students. The warning frames language study as tied to broader educational opportunity rather than only cultural learning. The development places renewed attention on program portfolio decisions in the higher education sector, especially where staffing reductions and course withdrawals can affect student pathways and regional workforce preparation.