Higher Education in Northern Ireland is competing with the best in the world, but needs to be adequately resourced if it is to continue to do so.
That was the message from Northern Ireland’s three universities at a special event held in Parliament Buildings.
The unique showcase, the first time The Open University, Queen’s University and University of Ulster have combined to put on such an event, outlined the impact and value of higher education for Northern Ireland directly to ministers and MLAs.
The Committee for Employment and Learning hosted the event on behalf of the universities.
Committee chairperson, Robin Swann MLA, said: “The theme of the event — advancing knowledge, changing lives — is increasingly relevant in today’s knowledge-based economy.
“By equipping our young people with the skills they need to excel, universities can make a real difference to their lives.
We have been encouraged by the spirit of collaboration on display today, and we look forward to supporting our universities as they continue to develop our worldclass higher education sector.”
Commenting about the occasion The Open University’s National Director John D’Arcy said: “Today shows what the three universities have achieved for the citizens, society and economy of Northern Ireland.
“It goes without saying that we can only continue to grow and succeed in the future.
The question now is just how much we do that — how far we can push the boundaries — to innovate and excel for the future.”
Queen’s Vice-Chancellor Professor James McElnay said: “Our universities compete at many levels but we are united in our approach to delivering public benefit.
“Northern Ireland is also developing a reputation as a place of innovation and ambition, extending its influence beyond these shores, and our universities are enhancing this reputation every day.
We may not be the biggest place in the world but in higher education we compete with the best in the world and we’re winning.”
Meanwhile, Southern Regional College (SRC) is celebrating after being awarded the prestigious Association of Colleges (AoC) Beacon Award for Widening Participation to Lifelong Learning.
The college was announced as winner of the award at the AoC Annual Conference in Birmingham earlier this week.
The institute won the award for its ‘Transforming Learning Communities’, or TLC project, which actively attracts adult learners to re-engage in learning and is proactive with two local communities of migrant workers and travellers.
The college is planning a celebration event for the New Year and will receive its award at a national presentation ceremony at Westminster in February.