Queen's University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Peter Gregson, has announced an ambitious investment programme over the next four years totalling £200 million.

Speaking at the beginning of the summer graduation ceremonies, the Vice-Chancellor said: "This announcement is good news for Queen’s University the local economy and the education of our young people. The funding settlement for higher education agreed last year by the Northern Ireland Executive creates more places for local students, allows for an increase in international students and, in turn, will provide a much needed boost to the local economy.

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"The investment programme will allow us to enhance the quality of the student experience through improved services and facilities, to invest in world-class teachers and researchers and extend our commitment to promoting graduate employability.

"Over the past decade our investment in new buildings and facilities has supported over 10,000 jobs in the construction industry. The investment plan we are announcing today will lead to more construction jobs, support local businesses and inject much needed money into the Northern Ireland economy. It will also support the University’s objective of doubling the number of its international students, which will inject an additional £20 million of spending power per annum into the local economy.

"In addition to increasing international student numbers, we will provide more opportunities for our students to take international internships, invest in world-leading research programmes and support the City Council in its ambition to make Belfast a leading, global learning city."

(CD/GK)