SCOTLAND’S higher education minister stressed young people shouldn’t feel they “have to take advice from TV personalities on Twitter” after Neil Oliver sparked a row over universities.

The Coast presenter tweeted yesterday: “Don’t go to university. Find an honest way of earning a living. Read widely. Collect books.”

The National Trust for Scotland president was criticised for the post – with those replying speaking positively of their experiences at university and some pointing out it’s possible to have an honest living, read and collect books while also having studied.

“They are not mutually exclusive,” Ruth Green replied. But Oliver disagreed, telling her: “That was then. This is now.”

Another person reminded Oliver that “we Scots can go to university for free” – unlike those living in other parts of the UK – while also following the advice he listed in his tweet.

Meanwhile, Sian Munson replied with a practical take on the presenter’s argument. She pointed out: “If only there was a way to be a registered nurse without going to university. Or a doctor, a teacher, a social worker...”

Richard Lochhead, the minister for further and higher education, stepped in late last night as the row continued.

“University, college, work, choose whatever you feel is the best route for you and follow your dreams,” he posted. “Don’t worry if you change your mind later on and don’t feel you have to take advice from TV personalities on Twitter.”

This year the number of Scottish school leavers who went on to college or university reached its highest level on record.

The latest figures for 2018/19 showed more than three out of five leavers chose to continue their education following the end of the school term.