Yorkshire universities boost economy by millions
HIGHER education in Yorkshire contributes more than £2bn to the region’s economy acording to a new report.
New research – commissioned by Yorkshire Universities – shows that higher education generates £2.8bn and supports around 39,000 jobs in the region.
Higher Education generates the equivalent of 3.2% of the region’s GDP, and the 206,000 studentsbring with them a total spending power of £980m.
The region produces around 55,000 graduates per year and the regional employment rate for people with at least a degree level qualification is 87.4%.
The findings will be presented on June 23 in York at a special evening reception for key regional decision makers.
Guest speaker will be the Rt Hon Rosie Winterton MP, Minister for Yorkshire & the Humber.
Professor Michael Arthur, chair of Yorkshire Universities and Vice-Chancellor of University of Leeds: “Yorkshire’s universities represent a powerhouse of research and expertise. “Yorkshire’s universities have the strength and diversity to ensure that higher education continues to make a significant impact on the region’s economic, social and technological future.”
The higher education sector produces world-class research, expertise and resources which organisations and employers can access to develop and grow their business.
The combined research power of the Universities of Leeds, Sheffield and York ranks alongside that of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge.
The study also details how the higher education sector is a major contributor to social and community services, regeneration, culture, sport, health and wellbeing within the region making its impact far reaching.
Professor Michael Arthur added: “The knowledge and learning opportunities available in our universities are world-class. We have a proven track record of making these strengths available for the benefit of the whole community.”
