Napier launches new Institute for Creative Industries

Napier's Institute for Creative Industries was launched on 13 October, adding to the University's eight other industry institutes, all aimed at different key sectors of the Scottish economy.

Students will be able to take advantage of streamlined business access to support creative degrees in photography, film and television, music, design, journalism and communications.

Professor Robin MacPherson, the Institute’s Director, said: “We want the Institute for Creative Industries to be the first port of call for those in the cultural and creative industries when they need practical help with innovation, embracing new technologies or reaching new audiences. Our aim is to work in partnership with local, national and international public bodies to enhance creative industries policy and business support.”

Students will also benefit from the Institute’s mission to extend continuous professional development opportunities and enhance existing short courses provided by Screen Academy Scotland.

Creative Scotland has backed the launch of the Institute with Andrew Dixon, chief executive of Creative Scotland, commenting to The Journal: “Scotland’s creative industries make an essential contribution to Scotland’s economy and our international profile as a creative nation."

“Creative Scotland’s role in the creative industries is to provide research, intelligence, advocacy and to contribute to policy development, and this new centre will be a valuable asset for the whole country. Our strong links with Edinburgh Napier University and the wider higher education sector will help us attract, develop and retain creative talent, as well as supporting individuals and companies reach their full economic potential.”

Hopes are that that the institute will help bridge the gap between students and employment opportunities within the more exclusive graduate industries such as television and radio.

Professor John Duffield, vice-principal of Edinburgh Napier University, said: “We have a strong reputation for working closely with industry and our Institutes are absolutely fundamental to our new approach for engaging with business.”

“Each one is aligned to the government’s growth areas with the aim of making it as easy as possible for those industries to access the wide range of expertise within the University.”