For the financial year 2021-22, the Department for Education through the OfS has awarded £150 million to 100 colleges and universities to modernise and upgrade their facilities and equipment to boost access to higher technical training and flexible courses in key subjects, such as engineering, healthcare and science, that will help tackle regional skills gaps and level up local economies.
Following a successful bid, the University of Cumbria has been awarded £1,312,400.
£1,282,400 will be used to enhance facilities and infrastructure and the provision of equipment used in delivery of high-cost subject areas such as midwifery, nursing, paramedicine and STEM, including in those areas with skills shortages and where enhanced continuing professional development provision is in demand.
The package forms part of the government’s skills revolution which will level up opportunities for everyone and boost the economy.
Welcoming the news John said, ‘I am delighted to hear of the investment into the University of Cumbria. This is great news for Carlisle and it means that adults and young people will benefit from more high-quality and flexible education and skills training in facilities to match, which can only help more people into higher skilled, higher wage jobs, tackling regional skills gaps and levelling up local economies.
Education Secretary Nadhim Zahawi said: “Ensuring everyone is given the opportunity to reach their full potential, no matter their age or life stage, is a vital part of our mission to level up this country.”