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<p>Business-university collaboration is increasingly important, both in the development
of work-ready, highly skilled graduates, and in contributing to local and regional
economic growth.</p><p> </p><p>My right hon. Friend, the Prime Minister announced
a major review of post-18 education and funding that will ensure we have a joined
up education system that is accessible to all and encourages the development of the
funding and skills we need as a country. The independent panel will report shortly.
The government will consider their recommendations, but we remain committed to ensuring
that universities are funded on a sustainable basis.</p><p> </p><p>The government
is committed to ensuring that funding is available to support sustainable collaboration
between universities and businesses in local areas and is supporting this work in
a number of ways:</p><p> </p><ul><li><p>The Office for Students (OfS), through its
Industrial Strategy and Skills Challenge Competition is funding providers (including
in collaboration with employers) to develop and implement projects to improve outcomes
for graduates who seek employment in their home region. Details of which can be found
at: <a href="https://www.officeforstudents.org.uk/publications/ofs-challenge-competition-industrial-strategy-and-skills-support-for-local-students-and-graduates/"
target="_blank">https://www.officeforstudents.org.uk/publications/ofs-challenge-competition-industrial-strategy-and-skills-support-for-local-students-and-graduates/</a>.</p></li></ul><p>
</p><ul><li><p>Similarly, the UK Research and Innovation 'Strength in Places Fund'
is a competitive fund for collaborative bids between research institutions and businesses
to support significant regional growth through research and innovation. Details can
be found at: <a href="https://www.ukri.org/funding/funding-opportunities/strength-in-places-fund/"
target="_blank">https://www.ukri.org/funding/funding-opportunities/strength-in-places-fund/</a>.</p></li></ul><p>
</p><ul><li><p>The OfS is providing £20 million for the Institute of Coding which
will target a skills gap in digital skills and involves collaboration between education
providers and industry. This includes working together to create core content and
introducing flexible ways to learn.</p></li></ul><p> </p><ul><li><p>The government
also part funds the National Centre for Universities and Business which promotes,
develops and supports university and business collaboration across the UK.</p></li></ul>
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