A UNIQUE project offering bursaries to higher level students in Warrington has been launched.
The North West Development Agency (NWDA) and North West Universities Association (NWUA) has set up the regional scheme to offer post-graduate bursaries to students on masters programmes at all 15 universities in the area.
The project, Graduate Plus, was launched at the Warrington campus of Chester University. Student Daniel Tock was awarded £1,250 to continue his MSc studies in Maths.
Up to 200 bursaries valued up to £1,250 will be awarded to those taking a one year masters programme directed at high growth sectors. This includes low carbon products and services, digital and media, life sciences, pharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing.
The project is part of a bid to increase skills in the region and ensure people entering the labour market are equipped with the correct skills to secure employment in priority sectors. It also aims at retaining talent in the region.
NWDA chief executive Steven Broomhead (pictured) said: “In response to the current economic climate it is essential the agency continues to act on opportunities for growth in order to meet the skills demanded by priority sectors.
“The increase in graduates choosing to continue their studies to post-graduate level presents a unique chance to encourage them to explore job opportunities within these sectors.”
Prof Tim Wheeler, chairman of the NWUA board and vice chancellor at Chester University adde: “The universities in the North West welcome the NWDA’s commitment to developing and retaining higher level skills in the region.
“The Graduate Plus bursary scheme will encourage talented students to continue their education in the North West and will develop their capability in subjects, which will have the most positive impact on the region’s economy.”
