University of the Highlands and Islands: UHI secures award recognising contribution to local economy

The accolade was presented at the annual Scottish Council for Development and Industry Business Excellent Awards on Tuesday 15 November in Inverness.

Hosted by TV comedy star Rory Bremner, the event was a celebration of business excellence in the Highlands and Islands.

Commenting on the award, Vicki Nairn, UHI’s Interim Principal and Vice-Chancellor, said: “UHI was created to have a transformational impact on the prospects of our region, its economy, its people and its communities, so it is fantastic to be recognised with this award. Our diverse partnership offers flexible and supported learning from access level to PhD. We work closely with organisations and business across our regions to inform our curriculum and research and we have over 31,000 students at the heart of our partnership.”

The SCDI award recognises UHI’s efforts to support the economic development of the communities it serves. Over the past decade, UHI has led growth in the regional economy, providing employment and educational pathways which were previously unavailable in the region.

An independent economic impact assessment published by Biggar Economics in 2020 found that the UHI partnership contributes £560 million to the Highlands and Islands, Moray and Perthshire economies every year and supports 6,200 jobs. It also revealed that for every £1 invested in UHI, UHI puts £4 back into the economies of the communities it serves.

Sara Thiam, SCDI’s Chief Executive, said: “UHI continues to deliver world class educational opportunities and equip people with the skills needed to grow the region’s economy sustainably. It is a worthy winner of the SCDI Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Regional Economy.”