Moray College UHI is making a “significant contribution” to the Scottish Economy in a report that says further education is now worth over £1.2billion.
The report by representative body Colleges Scotland on the economic impact of Scotland’s colleges cites Moray as being of particular importance to Scotland’s food and drink manufacturing industry.
Two courses provided at Moray College UHI are highlighted in the report which says: “Food and drink manufacturing is one of the largest employers in Scotland and it is fundamental that there is a knowledgeable workforce with the right skills to meet this demand.
“Education providers and stakeholders have responded to taking a collaborative approach involving secondary schools, colleges, universities, sector specialists and employers to produce two key qualifications.”
Welcoming the report was Stewart Stevenson MSP, who said that many of his Banffshire & Buchan Coast constituents had been attracted to study at Moray College.
Mr Stevenson highlighted the importance of all Scotland’s colleges which currently train over 235,000 students and provide employment for 13,500 staff.
He said: “The Government has worked to transform further education, strengthening the sector and ensuring students can access high quality training and skills provision across the country.
“As a result, more students than ever are ready for work when they leave – with a recent survey of employers finding leavers in Scotland the most prepared for work in the UK.
“On top of this, recent Scottish Government figures have shown successes in the college sector, with even more course completions and record levels of learning hours benefiting students.”
The MSP added that college budgets in Scotland had been protected despite “unprecedented” cuts being passed down from the UK Government.
He added: “The Scottish Government’s efforts to provide opportunities for young people are making a difference.
“With the full economic powers only independence will bring, we can go further to strengthen the Scottish economy and ensure even more opportunities for our young people.”