UNIVERSITY OF THE HIGHLANDS AND ISLANDS

That this House welcomes the achievement of the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) in becoming Scotland's newest university which has over 8,000 students and more than 100 courses which are specifically tailored for the needs of the Highlands and Islands region and beyond; notes that this landmark achievement of university title by UHI is the realisation of a long-time ambition for the region to have its own university to support economic development and to help sustain rural and island communities; believes that, as a university, UHI will attract more young people and also recruit students from beyond the Highlands and Islands region; congratulates staff, students and supporters who have contributed to this achievement; and wishes UHI every success for the future.