In response to the government's industrial strategy, Vivienne
Stern MBE, Chief Executive of Universities UK, said:
Today's announcement sets a clear direction for the government's
priorities on economic growth in which universities have a vital
role to play.
UK universities have forged strong partnerships with businesses
across all major growth sectors and are central to developing the
workforce and innovations of the future.
From equipping students with advanced skills to upskilling those
already in the labour market, universities are committed to
driving economic growth across the UK. Our recent analysis shows
that the government's growth sectors depend on the high-level
skills graduates provide, and this need is projected to increase
further in the years ahead.
Our report Why universities are
critical to an industrial strategy also outlines how
universities offer flexible and technical qualifications to
support industry with its training needs. Both reinforce the fact
that if the government wants to maximise the potential of its
growth sectors, universities are essential to the success of its
industrial strategy.
As anchor institutions in communities nationwide, our
universities are not only widening access and opportunities by
helping individuals gain new skills or enhance existing ones, but
are also centres of research and innovation, driving the UK
forward. We're pleased to see that the government recognises this
and will continue to support universities through Higher
Education Innovation Funding which is critical to driving
knowledge exchange between universities and businesses.
