21 December 2007
2012 Olympics provides opportunities for the higher education sector
HEFCE has outlined the ways in which it will maximise the higher education sector's involvement in the 2012 London Olympic and Paralympic Games in a report to the Secretary of State this month.
The report highlights the 2012 Games' potential to enhance core areas of activity in universities and colleges, such as widening participation, business development, knowledge transfer, cultural events, and the contribution that HE can make to public health. To realise this potential, HEFCE will support specific activities that will provide a lasting legacy for the sector.
HEFCE's report outlines work done so far and its plans for the future. It is already funding pilot projects in collaboration with Podium, the further and higher education unit for the 2012 Games. HEFCE will also invite proposals from higher education institutions to fund Olympics-related projects through its Strategic Development Fund in the near future. It is prepared to invest up to £10 million over the next three years, and will look to support proposals that have 'matched' funding, to spread risk, increase sustainability, and to lever buy-in and expertise from different sectors.
The HE sector and the 2012 London Olympic Games - HEFCE report to the Secretary of State