Britain runs on modern universities

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Across the UK, modern universities are helping communities thrive. They educate the professionals who keep our public services running, support businesses to innovate and grow, and open opportunities for people from every background.

Britain Runs on Modern Universities highlights the vital role that modern universities play in powering economic growth, strengthening public services and creating opportunities across Britain.

From training nurses, teachers and engineers, to driving research partnerships with businesses and supporting local regeneration, modern universities are deeply embedded in the places they serve. Their impact extends far beyond campus boundaries, helping to build stronger communities and more prosperous local economies.

At a time when the UK faces significant challenges around skills, productivity and regional inequality, the campaign makes a simple but powerful case: Britain runs on modern universities.

News

Press release21 Oct 2026

MillionPlus proposes three tests to assess outcomes of devolved skills investment

Universities should have a formal role in shaping regional skills and growth plans, and authorities should assess whether those plans help local people gain higher-level skills and find opportunities to use them, according to a new policy briefing from MillionPlus, the Association for Modern Universities.

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