News Summary
Denmark Technical College, the only historically Black technical school in South Carolina, is grappling with severe financial challenges after two years of budget cuts. The college has outdated resources and requested $35 million for new infrastructure, but received no significant state funding. This has led to a sharp decline in enrollment and has highlighted financial inequities based on historical segregation. The college’s future remains uncertain without adequate resources and infrastructure improvements to better serve its community.
Denmark, South Carolina – Denmark Technical College, the only historically Black technical school in South Carolina, is facing severe financial challenges due to two consecutive years of budget cuts. These cuts have significantly hampered the college’s ability to recover financially and expand its educational offerings.
The institution has been struggling with outdated resources, such as welding equipment that is more than 70 years old and obsolete computer systems used in its cybersecurity program. In an effort to modernize and cater to current industry needs, Denmark Technical College requested state funding to construct a new $35 million building focusing on cybersecurity, energy, and healthcare programs. Unfortunately, this request received no financial backing from the Senate, while the House initially proposed a mere $2.3 million, which was far from sufficient.
The budget that went into effect on July 1 designated zero dollars for crucial infrastructure improvements at Denmark Technical College, while providing $140 million to enhance facilities at 14 other technical colleges across the state. This disparity highlights an ongoing issue of financial inequality, as Denmark Tech has not received a new technical building since 1961 and has not had a new academic building since 1975.
The consequences of outdated technology are becoming increasingly pronounced, as evidenced by declining enrollment figures. In just four years, student numbers plummeted from approximately 2,000 in 2012 to around 600 by 2016. This drastic shift occurred just before state control was instituted due to the institution’s financial instability. Currently, Denmark Tech has about 700 students with a teaching staff of roughly 50.
Recent financial reports indicate that expenses exceeded revenue by $1 million, further complicating Denmark Technical College’s efforts to stabilize its budget. State lawmakers have also deemed the college’s budget stabilization plan impractical. Proposals to convert the college into a trade school offering only industry certificates have faced significant opposition, leading to their abandonment.
The college’s leadership has faced challenges too, with numerous changes in administration since 2009 contributing to ongoing financial difficulties. Many state legislators have recognized the historical context of funding disparities—rooted in segregation—that impact Denmark Tech compared to its counterparts. These racial and financial inequities in funding persist as key issues requiring attention.
Besides financial constraints, many of Denmark Tech’s students come from low-income families in Bamberg County, presenting additional socioeconomic challenges for both enrollment and retention. As birth rates decline nationwide, public colleges are experiencing a decrease in enrollment, and Denmark Tech is no exception. The college is now faced with the difficult choice of considering further cuts, which may ultimately limit enrollment opportunities and hinder its mission to serve the local community effectively.
Denmark Technical College’s ability to fulfill its role as a vital educational institution is under significant threat unless the state takes decisive action to address the funding inequities it faces. Without new resources or infrastructure improvements, the college’s future, and its capacity to provide technical education to the surrounding regions, remains precarious.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- SC Daily Gazette: Denmark Tech Snubbed in SC Budget
- Wikipedia: Denmark Technical College
- AL.com: Talladega College Names New President
- Google Search: Denmark Technical College
- WJBF: Denmark Tech’s President Heads to Alabama
- Google Scholar: Denmark Technical College
- The State: Denmark Tech Financial Struggles
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Denmark Technical College
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
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