The economic benefit of University of Stirling research activity was the focus of a Scottish Government ministerial visit today.
Richard Lochhead MSP, Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science, visited Stirling’s campus to learn more about how the University’s research is supporting the Scottish economy, including through the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.
Professor Gerry McCormac, University Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “We’re proud of the transformational impact of our research, learning and teaching, which is making a positive difference to local and international communities.
“We were therefore pleased to welcome the Minister to our campus today, to discuss topics including how we’re continuing to help drive real economic growth as part of our central role in the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal.”
Minister for Further Education, Higher Education and Science Richard Lochhead said: “University-led projects within the Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region will benefit students, graduates and businesses and I was delighted to visit the University today to hear more about these.
“The University is at the cutting edge of aquaculture and environmental research. These projects can have an impact at both local level and through international collaboration by tackling global environmental challenges and pushing sustainable aquaculture production. They also provide skills training to meet the needs of the local community and industry and in all of this they bring immense value to our society and our economy”.
During his visit, Mr Lochhead met with Professor McCormac, University Secretary Eileen Schofield, Senior Deputy Principal Professor Malcolm MacLeod and Dr John Rogers, Executive Director of Research and Innovation Services, who further outlined how Stirling’s business engagement activities support the economy.
Mr Lochhead also met with Professor Neville Wylie, Deputy Principal (Internationalisation), who discussed the University’s international profile, as well as Stirling Students’ Union President Astrid Smallenbroek.
The £90.2 million Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal, funded by the UK and Scottish Governments, is supported by £123.8 million from regional partners and has the potential to leverage an additional £640 million in further private investment. Over a period of 10 to 15 years, the investment has the potential to deliver more than 5,000 new jobs across the region.