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The Scottish National Party will today unveil its education policy, which is expected to include a five-year funding programme for higher education institutions to encourage longer-term planning. It will also produce a detailed strategy for reducing the burden of tuition fees. It has pledged to axe tuition fees in an independent Scotland. Education spokeswoman Nicola Sturgeon said the SNP planned to set up an education convention made up of a broad range of interests, including higher education staff, students and management. Other proposals will include legislation for student-elected rectors in every Scottish university.