University 'White Space' praised

Computer games students work out of the White Space

The first minister has praised the role Abertay University is playing in boosting Scotland's ranking in the digital technology market.

It came as Alex Salmond was officially opening the university's "White Space".

It is a �2.5m area used by computer arts and games students, PhD researchers, lecturers and businesses.

Mr Salmond also announced �56,800 to sponsor students from China and India on a 10-week summer programme at the university in Dundee.

They will take part in the "Dare to be Digital" competition, which brings teams of computer students from around the world together to work on and present a digital product.

Mr Salmond said: "The Scottish Government has ambitions for developing our creative economy and this facility will help its strength to develop."

He added: "By combining technology, education and innovation under one roof the University of Abertay has created the perfect environment for building Scotland's reputation in the global knowledge industry.

"Already we are positioned at the forefront of the computer games sector.

Our aim is to produce the graduates and the creative and innovative ideas and intellectual property that Scotland needs to enable it to compete in the global knowledge economy Bernard King Abertay Principal

"The White Space facility will help us maintain our competitive advantage into the future and expand into new areas of success, attracting some of the most talented people in the field to the University of Abertay."

University Principal Professor Bernard King said: "The White Space concept surrounds our students with the buzz of a real working environment allowing them to share real-world knowledge and experience.

"Our aim is to produce the graduates and the creative and innovative ideas and intellectual property that Scotland needs to enable it to compete in the global knowledge economy.

"Those who use White Space find it is the ideal environment to support the development of creativity and build confidence while learning about team work, cross-disciplinary co-operation and the significance of research, enterprise and entrepreneurship."

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