In the first place, then, our higher instruction in arts—including the various subjects mentioned above—has of late suffered some discouragement. Decrease in the number of graduates. The late Vice-Chancellor (Mr. Gibbs), in his farewell address to Convocation last year, presented a statistical summary of the results of examinations for entrance to the University and for degrees, during the last decade of years; for all which results we may be truly thankful, and the contemplation of which may encourage us to persevere in our academical efforts. Still, a consideration of the educational statistics in detail show us that although the number of those who annually present themselves for matriculation is maintained—though without any tendency towards material increase—the number of matriculated undergraduates studying for future degrees in the Arts Colleges affiliated to the University, has, during the last two or three years, shown fluctuations and in the main a tendency to decrease. Such a circumstance cannot fail to cause regret and anxiety, not only to us who are connected with the University, but also to all who desire the moral and mental advancement of the Natives of this country. As the teaching establishment is maintained in full strength and undiminisbed efficiency; as the professorial chairs continue to be filled by gentlemen whose talents and zeal are
undisputed: the decrease of the students must be due to extraneous causes which are not fully discernible. But some of the causes
can be partly discerned.
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1880.—Sir Richard Temple.
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