Unis support nearly 7,000 jobs in N. Wales

UNIVERSITIES in North Wales support nearly 7,000 jobs in the region – pumping millions into the local economy.

An independent report, released by Universities Wales, shows Welsh universities generate a total impact of over £5bn for the Welsh economy.

In North Wales, this creates and supports 6,777 direct and indirect jobs. This includes people employed in the institutions and jobs supported by money spent with local companies by the universities, its staff and students.

As would be expected, the biggest impact is in the counties with universities on the patch, namely Gwynedd and Wrexham.

In Gwynedd, home of Bangor University, there are 2,892 jobs reliant on higher education while in Wrexham, where Glyndŵr Uni is based, this figure is 1,625.

But these benefits spread over the counties’ borders – supporting jobs on Anglesey (427), in Conwy (742), Denbighshire (483), and Flintshire (609).

The report states: “The total employment generated includes both jobs inside the universities and jobs generated through the effects of the spending of universities, students and visitors.”

A Bangor University spokesman said: “In addition to being one of the largest employers in the region, Bangor University has a substantial economic impact on North Wales and beyond.

“For example, our research and innovation feeds directly into business in Wales and across the world, who develop new products in a range of sectors.

“We also attract students from around the world, and our graduates are valued employees and entrepreneurs in a range of businesses.”

Glyndŵr Vice-Chancellor, Professor Maria Hinfelaar, said: “We are proud to be among the key drivers in North Wales when it comes to industry, education and employment.

“Together with partners, we are aiming to bring even more prosperity to the region via the North Wales Growth Deal, and through our vast range of degrees and courses.

“Our community and supporting the economy are among our top priorities.”