university

Motion: Ainslie Henderson, International Animation Award Winner

Jean Urquhart MSP

Motion S4M-05244: Jean Urquhart, Highlands and Islands, Independent, Date Lodged: 18/12/2012

Ainslie Henderson, International Animation Award Winner
That the Parliament congratulates Ainslie Henderson of the Edinburgh College of Art on being named winner in the animation category at the 2012 Adobe Design Achievement Awards; understands that Ainslie’s work, I Am Tom Moody, beat nearly 5,000 entrants from 70 countries; further understands that Ainslie enlisted the vocal help of the actor, Mackenzie Crook, for his project; considers that Ainslie’s victory, given the number of entrants, demonstrates the creative talent studying at Scotland’s colleges and universities; believes that this international recognition further demonstrates the opportunities available to those who pursue an interest in the arts, and encourages young people with creative talent to use it in whatever way they can.

Press Release: Jean Urquhart Welcomes New UHI Course (June 26th)

Jean Urquhart MSP

ean Urquhart MSP welcomed the announcement of a new postgraduate course offered by the University of the Highlands and Islands.

The MLitt in Highlands and Islands Culture, which can also be studied as a PgCert or PgDip, is thought to be the first of its kind. Complementing a course already offered in Highlands and Islands Literature, the course will examine various aspects of Highland life, including its customs, history, literature, music and geography.

The delivery of the course through video conference seminars and online distance learning has also marked out the course as a unique opportunity to learn more about the Highlands and Islands.

Ms Urquhart, a Highlands and Islands list MSP, commented:

“As a local MSP, former councillor and member of the Education & Culture Committee, watching UHI go from strength to strength and helping to bring vibrancy to the region has been a particular pleasure.

“As part of their development, I am therefore delighted to see the UHI offer such an innovative and flexible course pertaining to the local area.

 “As the course is offered on both a full time and part time basis, as well as being accessible in a distance learning format, it will enable as many people as possible to explore our past and present, maximising the appreciation of our rich and vibrant local culture.

“I welcome the extra attention this course has brought our part of the world, and look forward to people across the globe learning more about the journey the Highlands and Islands has taken and continues to take.”

Press Release: Jean Urquhart Welcomes Lower Student Debt Levels (June 21st)

Jean Urquhart MSP

Highlands and Islands MSP Jean Urquhart has welcomed statistics that reveal Scottish student loan debts are the lowest in the UK.

Figures from the Students Loan showed the average Scottish student loan debt was £6,480 compared to £17,140 in England, £13,650 in Wales and £15,880 in Northern Ireland.

Commenting, Ms Urquhart said:

“As a Member of the Education and Culture Committee, I was pleased to see Scotland’s policy of free education helping to keep student debt levels in Scotland comparatively low.

 “This is just one of many indicators of the benefits of decisions for Scotland being taken by Scotland, rather than distant patricians at Westminster.

“The SNP will strive to ensure that we can offer our young people the best possible package of student support, and will never put a price on our young people’s education.”