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Higher Education crucial for our prosperity - Empey

21 October 2009

Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey, today outlined the importance of Higher Education in today’s tough economic climate.

Addressing higher education stakeholders at the Higher Education Strategy’s Stakeholder Event at the Park Avenue Hotel in Belfast, the Minister said: “In a demanding economic environment it is crucial that the Northern Ireland higher education sector is focused on continuing to provide a high quality educational experience, whilst evolving and responding to global economic change.

“The sector remains central to the viability of future prosperity of the Northern Ireland economy. From raising the aspirations of our young people, equipping them for the world of work, building an economic skills base, being at the forefront of innovation and research, right through to the cultural and social value that higher education undoubtedly delivers, it is clear that Higher Education is critical to the development of Northern Ireland society.”

The Stakeholder Event provided the opportunity for stakeholders to express their views and influence the development of the Strategy at an early stage. Sir Graeme Davies, Chair of the Steering Group which will lead the development of the Strategy, as well as speakers from across the UK and the Republic of Ireland, addressed delegates at the event.

The Minister also announced the membership of the Steering Group which will assist Sir Graeme Davies.  The members are Sir David Watson, Dame Geraldine Keegan, Professors Richard Barnett, Roger Downer and Peter Gregson, Dr Rosemary Hamilton, Rotha Johnston, Joanne Stuart, Bill McGinnis, John D’Arcy, Mark Langhammer, Breidge Gadd, Gail Ferguson and Jim McKeown.

Notes to editors:

  1. The Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Reg Empey, today  addressed higher education stakeholders on the development of a Higher Education Strategy for Northern Ireland. Discussion topics included the economy, society, learning and teaching, international issues and governance.
  2. Speakers included: Sir Reg Empey, Minister for Employment and Learning, Sir Graeme Davies, Higher Education Strategy Chairman, Mr Bill McGinnis CDE, Northern Ireland Adviser on Employment and Skills, Tom Boland, Chief Executive Higher Education Authority Ireland, Laurence Howells, Senior Director of Teaching Research and Knowledge Exchange Scottish Funding Council, Dr Bahram Bekhradnia, Director of the Higher Education Policy Institute and Mr Peter McAllister, Department for Children, Education and Lifelong Learning and Skills Welsh Assembly.
  3. All media enquiries should be directed to the Department for Employment and Learning Communications Branch, on 028 9025 7872.  Out of office hours please contact the duty press officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.