Matt Western MP visited the University of Central Lancashire where he explored future development opportunities with the Vice-Chancellor
Shadow Minister for Higher Education, Matt Western MP, visited the University of Central Lancashire on Tuesday 23 April and pledged to work closely with the University sector to provide greater opportunities to access higher education.
The MP for Warwick and Leamington held talks with Vice-Chancellor of the University of Central Lancashire, Professor Graham Baldwin, and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Operations) Ruth Connor.
The strategic direction of the institution, as well as opportunities for development and expansion, were all discussed before Mr Western enjoyed a tour of the University of Central Lancashire’s £60 million Student Centre, £35 million Engineering Innovation Centre (EIC) and finally its School of Medicine and Dentistry. Mr Western also took time out of his busy diary to speak with members of the Students’ Union about their upcoming priorities and activities.
"I want to see more young people choosing to transform their lives via a university education and I’m reassured that institutions such as the University of Central Lancashire continue to offer proven pathways to great future careers."
— Shadow Minister for Higher Education, Matt Western MP
During the visit Matt Western MP said: “I’ve visited universities the length and breadth of this country recently and it’s heartening to know that although the higher education sector is under unprecedented strain in terms of funding, institutions like the University of Central Lancashire are determined to deliver the best in Higher Education despite those financial constraints. Most impressively, it is still innovating.
“It is an important institution across the region and nationally. I want to see more young people choosing to transform their lives via a university education and I’m reassured that institutions such as the University of Central Lancashire continue to offer proven pathways to great future careers.”
Vice-Chancellor Professor Graham Baldwin said: “The challenges that the Higher Education sector is facing are significant but working closely with local and national officials we are confident of exploiting the great opportunities that exist to support our students and communities.
“I’d like to thank Mr Western for listening to our concerns and hope he’ll continue to be a vociferous advocate for our important sector within the House of Commons.”