We were pleased to see our research featured in the recent speech by Professor Sally Mapstone DBE, President of Universities UK, at the UUK annual conference last week. Our work provided an update of analysis for UUK on the forecasted economic and social impact of UK universities over the next five years.
Our original analysis in 2021 formed the centrepiece of Universities UK’s #GettingResults campaign, and attracted national press coverage. The speech, which took place at the University of Manchester, provided a sneak peek at the latest figures. It included impressive forecasts for the contribution of universities in the North West: they will train over 32,000 nurses, nearly 12,000 doctors and 28,000 teachers. They will also provide over £900 million of support to businesses.
In her speech, Professor Mapstone also talked about the need for sustainable funding models to maintain quality and access, through increased public investment. She emphasised that universities have a vital role to play in tackling major challenges like economic growth, sustainability, skills shortages, and inequality through teaching, research and innovation.
We must help earn increased investment. Yes, our universities are already engines of growth but how can we help this country to progress further and faster, helping it to grow so it can invest.
Professor Sally Mapstone DBE, President of Universities UK, and Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of St Andrews
