The 1994 Group of student-focused, research-intensive universities welcomes CBI Director-General, Richard Lambert’s timely comments that it is even more important during the recession that students and recent graduates gain vital employability skills and experience of the workplace.

Commenting on the launch of a new CBI/Universities UK report on preparing graduates for the world of work Paul Marshall, Executive Director of the 1994 Group said: ‘In an ever more challenging job market 1994 Group universities are making every effort to prepare their students for the world of work. 1994 Group universities are successfully working with employers to provide a wide range of excellent employment opportunities, work placements and internships for students and alumni.’

‘Our recent Graduate Employability report shows that the employment prospects and earnings potential of students are significantly enhanced by their world-class experience of higher education at research-intensive universities and the opportunities that these universities provide. In a recession it is even more important that universities and their graduates have a strong reputation amongst employers. On this count 1994 Group universities clearly deliver.’

1994 Group universities are providing a range of excellent opportunities for students to gain experience of the workplace while at university.

Notes to Editors
1. The 1994 Group report Graduate employment and earnings: Are universities meeting student expectations? can be downloaded from the 1994 Group website:
www.1994group.ac.uk/documents/public/081118_GEEresearchReport.pdf

2. The 1994 Group represents 18 of UK’s leading research intensive universities. It was established in 1994 to promote excellence in University research and teaching. www.1994group.ac.uk. The 1994 Group represents: University of Bath, Birkbeck University of London, University of Durham, University of East Anglia, University of Essex, University of Exeter, Goldsmiths University of London, Royal Holloway University of London, Lancaster University, University of Leicester, Loughborough University, Queen Mary University of London, University of Reading, University of St Andrews, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of Surrey, University of Sussex, University of York.