Edinburgh Napier University launches creative institute
Edinburgh Napier University has launched a new institute which will help boost Scotland’s £5 billion creative industries sector.
The new institute, supported by Creative Scotland, will streamline business access to its expertise in areas such as journalism, music and photography.
It is one of nine institutes created by the university to help support key areas of the Scottish economy.
Professor John Duffield, the university's vice principal pointed out: "According to the latest data, 64,660 people were employed in the creative industries in Scotland - an increase of 11% on 2003. Areas in which growth was particularly strong include music and the visual and performing arts, architecture and software, computer games and electronic publishing.
"Total turnover in the sector in 2007 was £5.2 billion, with gross value added (GVA) around £2.4 billion.". Prof Robin MacPherson, the institute’s new director, said: "We want the Institute for Creative Industries to be the first port of call for those in the cultural and creative industries when they need practical help with innovation, embracing new technologies or reaching new audiences.
"Our aim is to work in partnership with local, national and international public bodies to enhance creative industries policy and business support.''
The institute is already working on a number of Scottish Funding Council-backed innovation projects - including building an interactive web presence for an independent TV company.
Earlier this year, Edinburgh Napier University emerged as the third best university in the UK for securing jobs for graduate journalists - with a success rate of 70 per cent.
It was the only Scottish university in the top ten, and its success was featured in an article on the website, MediaNation, based on government figures - Unistat - for graduate employment.