The Agency says it has approached around 90 people and organisations for information, including universities in the area, and is welcoming information from any other interested parties on how the contribution the universities make to regional business and the economy could be improved, particularly by regional and national policy changes.
The areas to be covered include skills, research and commercialisation, business support, collaboration and future funding.
Alan Welby, Director of Strategy at One North East, said economic growth relies on the interplay between universities, businesses and communities, and between social, commercial and academic interests. “We hope this comprehensive study will help us to align regional policy to meet the future demands of industry and provide the correct training and support for the jobs that will drive our future economy.”
After reviewing the evidence One North East will compile a list of policy requests for the national government, to enhance the role universities play in driving economic growth.
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