GLASGOW’S crisis-hit universities support nearly 22,000 jobs, a major new analysis has revealed. 

For years, the city’s three major institutions have been seen as major players in Scotland’s economy, churning out graduates and ideas as smart as each other.

But new research for the University and College Union (UCU) reveals just how economically vital the institutions are in their own right. 

Universities across Scotland generate £4.6 billion in GVA (gross value added) for the country’s economy every year, employing 36,850 people directly or indirectly through their supply chain, and nearly as many again through a knock-on effect. 

Glasgow’s institutions chalked up £1.4bn and 21,500 jobs. 

The study, by Hatch Regeneris, was published just as higher education plunged into one of its biggest crises as international students – whose fees cross-subsidise partially unfunded free tuition for Scots – failed to materialise. 

UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: “This review shows how significant Scotland’s universities are to local economies. 

“Universities are vitally important to our society, but their important role in the economy is often overlooked. 

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“This study shows that they have a huge impact in creating local jobs, supporting local businesses and attracting people and organisations to the area.”

Scottish universities have seen their financial model collapse in recent months. 

The Scottish Government, through the Scottish Funding Council, covers around 90p in the £1 for every Scottish student who gets free tuition. Research grants – including those which come from the UK – are also thought not to cover full costs. 

Institutions make up the difference with income from commercial activity – such as conferences and catering on their campuses and international students. These sources have been devastated by the virus crisis.

David Lott, deputy director of Universities Scotland, the umbrella group for all 19 institutions, echoed UCU calls for government support.

He said: “The Scottish and UK Governments should put universities at the heart of the economic and social recovery and the plan to build back better, and fund universities at levels that allow them to deliver on this. It will be vital that the Scottish Government and universities take stock together.”