UHI Perth welcomes Norwegian Government delegation

Senior officials from the Norwegian Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development visited the University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) Perth campus today to learn more about the university’s role in supporting regional economic development and rural communities.

The delegation of 11 civil servants from the Ministry’s Department of Regional Development travelled to UHI Perth as part of a study visit to Scotland focused on regional policy and approaches to supporting sustainable communities in remote and rural areas. They were joined by two representatives from the Scottish Government and three members of the European Policies Research Centre.

During the visit, representatives from UHI shared insights into how the UHI partnership contributes to economic growth, skills development and innovation across the Highlands and Islands, Moray, Perthshire and beyond.

The programme included presentations on UHI’s mission, its work to support economic development, and examples of place-relevant education and training designed to meet the needs of remote and rural communities.

The visit reflects longstanding links between Scotland and Norway in regional economic development policy and research. The Norwegian Ministry has an ongoing relationship with the European Policies Research Centre at the University of Strathclyde, which has helped facilitate the study visit and discussions.

Professor Donna Heddle, Interim Dean of Research and Innovation at UHI, said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome colleagues from the Norwegian Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development to UHI Perth. Norway and Scotland share many similarities in supporting vibrant communities across remote and rural regions, and there is much we can learn from one another. Visits like this provide valuable opportunities to exchange ideas on regional policy, research and innovation, and to strengthen the international partnerships that help inform our work across the regions we serve.”

Catherine Etri, Interim Principal at UHI Perth, said:

“We were honoured to host the delegation at UHI Perth and to showcase how place-based education and training can support local economies and communities. As part of the UHI partnership, we work closely with employers, industry and public sector partners to ensure our provision responds to regional needs. It was a great opportunity to highlight the impact of that work and to share experiences with colleagues who face many of the same opportunities and challenges.”

The visit included discussions with senior leaders and academic staff from across UHI, as well as a tour of Perth and the surrounding area.