Northern Ireland

Pass Notes: Ulster University opens £11 million teaching facility in Derry

The four-story facility is attached to the existing library
The four-story facility is attached to the existing library The four-story facility is attached to the existing library

ULSTER University has opened a new teaching block at Magee, marking an £11million investment in its Derry campus.

The four-story facility, which is attached to the existing library, covers a floor space of 4000 sq meters; including three lecture theatres, 20 teaching rooms, open plan student hubs and a café.

UU said its opening represented a major investment in world-class teaching space, "significantly enhancing the student experience at Magee".

Vice-chancellor Professor Paddy Nixon said the block underlined the university’s commitment to expansion in the north-west.

"As an inclusive and internationally focussed university, we want to offer students the most dynamic and high quality teaching environment possible - one that will confidently provide the foundations for rewarding careers for our graduates," he said.

Magee provost Dr Malachy Ó Néill said students would benefit greatly both academically and socially.

"Facilities such as these are vital to ensuring we have the best quality teaching environment for our students whilst also serving the needs of the wider community and supporting economic growth in the region," he said.

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Young people are to be given the opportunity to engage with key decision makers, have their say on issues and be a representative voice for peers.

The newly formed Lisburn Castlereagh Youth Council (LCYC) will influence a range of council events and programmes.

The group of 16-21-year-olds will also undertake accredited training to grow and develop their skills and boost their confidence in representing young people's views and opinions.

It will meet regularly to identify and resolve common issues.

It is managed through a partnership involving the Education Authority, Youth Service and other organisations including police.

LCYC spokesman Ryan McConville said: "I joined the youth council for a similar reason to many other people involved; I wanted to be a voice for my peers and get involved in areas that I'm interested in. I'm looking forward to getting to know fellow Youth Council members now that it is in place and am optimistic about the road ahead."