Welcome to our news & information area - you can find details of news and events, our newsletters, publications and press releases in this section of our site.
A new three year £3.7 million RDA-funded programme designed to increase productivity, profits and jobs in the South West is to be launched today at a high profile conference organised by the Higher Education Regional Development Association (HERDA). The project is a partnership between the South West RDA and HERDA and will draw on the vast knowledge resources contained within the region's universities and colleges. The three year programme outlines detailed proposals which will help higher education and south west businesses work together. It will: businesses to use new technologies developed in universities and colleges which will help them increase productivity and expand, so creating new jobs. Support the development of 'knowledge entrepreneurs' - people who will develop higher education 'bright ideas' to create new businesses in the region. Professor Eric Thomas, chair of the HERDA South West Strategy Board, who will launch the Knowledge Exploitation South West programme at HERDA's Aim Higher conference said: "This is a very exciting time for higher education in the South West. The 'Aim Higher' conference focuses on the importance of higher education to the agendas of economic development, social inclusion and health and the strength of the regional partnerships both between higher education institutions and with other regional bodies." He added: "A great example of this partnership working is the Knowledge Exploitation South West project. The South West RDA has contributed £3.7million to support this project which will use the knowledge and skills contained within the higher education sector to add value to the regional economy, creating jobs, developing cultures of entrepreneurship and creating businesses." Geoff Wilkinson, South West RDA chief executive said: "I am delighted that the RDA is able to further develop its excellent relationship with HERDA in this way, both by funding Knowledge Exploitation South West and by attending the 'Aim Higher' conference. "It is vital for the region that the RDA and its partners work with the higher education sector to sustain growth and productivity in the South West." Recent research from HERDA has estimated that higher education is worth £1.3 billion a year to the region's economy through both direct and indirect economic activity, as well as supporting an estimated 57,000 jobs. Ends - NOTES TO EDITORS - MEDIA ARRANGEMENTS You are invited to attend the conference to interview Professor Eric Thomas of HERDA about the launch of Knowledge Exploitation South West and the Aim Higher Conference. Time: 12noon on Thursday 14 November 2002 Place Imperial Hotel, Torquay IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO ATTEND, PLEASE CONTACT THE RDA PRESS OFFICE Contact: John Taynton, Corporate Communications Manager, South West RDA Tel 01392 229567 (direct line) or 07712 678951 (mobile) or e-mail: john.taynton@southwestrda.org.uk For further information please contact herda-sw
Contact John Taynton T: 01392 229567 E: herda-sw@southwestrda.org.uk