News release - Government's funding boost to help SSU graduates
April 23, 2009
Southampton Solent University has been awarded a six figure sum to support graduates through a new internship scheme.
The University has been given £160,000 from the Economic Challenge Investment Fund (ECIF), to fund 20 internships for new Southampton Solent graduates.
It comes after Solent made a successful bid to the scheme, designed to offer practical help to thousands of people and businesses during the economic downturn.
The primary purpose of the government's match funding – awarded through the Higher Education Funding Council for England and the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills - is to enable universities and colleges to support individuals and businesses affected by the recession.
Through Solent's internship scheme, graduates will be offered relevant training positions within University departments for a 12 month period. They will be supported through a mentoring programme and be given the opportunity to continue their professional development through either professional qualifications or post graduate study.
Southampton Solent University Deputy Vice Chancellor, John Latham, said: "We are delighted to have received financial support from the ECIF for our new internship programme. In agreeing to support our bid, ECIF have recognised the work we are already doing to promote the employability of our students.
"This new initiative will give graduates the chance to gain valuable paid work experience and the opportunity to further their professional development through professional qualifications and post graduate study."
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