Burr hails UHI as he steps down from second role
UHI is well-placed to overcome the financial challenges within the public sector and continue to play a major role in the Highlands and Islands, according to a long-serving adviser and local authority executive.
Malcolm Burr stepped down as chief executive of Comhairle nan Eilean Siar in March. Having been appointed in 2005, he was one of Scotland’s longest-serving council leaders.
Mr Burr also served as a Court member for UHI, the internal board which brings together individuals with suitable experience across the region to provide strategic guidance. He has now also stepped down from that.
During his time on Court, Mr Burr is said to have played an important role in supporting the university’s direction, drawing on his deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing island and rural communities.
Principal and Vice-Chancellor Vicki Nairn said: “Malcolm has brought a wealth of experience and insight to university Court, shaped by many years of leadership in the Highlands and Islands. His commitment to public service and to the communities we serve has been invaluable, and we are extremely grateful for the contribution he has made to the university during his time with us.”
Malcolm said: “It has been a privilege and a pleasure to have been a member of the UHI Court for so many years, representing UHI’s essential local authority partners. I am honoured to have played a small part in the growing and strengthening of UHI and its delivery of higher and further education throughout the Highlands and Islands.
“Despite the difficulties facing all universities at present, UHI has maintained high levels of student satisfaction and strong ratings in key areas such as research, and I am confident that UHI will continue to meet the needs of its diverse areas, recognising the opportunities and needs of local economies and working increasingly collaboratively with its local partners to support communities in these financially challenging times.
“We are living in an era of public service reform, and UHI will, I know, play a full and constructive part in developing the right models for higher and further education in all the diverse areas of the Highlands and Islands.”
Alastair MacColl, Chair of Court, commented: "Malcolm has been an outstanding member of our governing body. His acumen, judgement and wise counsel have been invaluable, and matched only by his commitment to the crucial role that UHI plays in the communities we serve. On behalf of the UHI community I'd like to say a very big thank you. Móran taing."
Meanwhile, over 100 students have now officially qualified from a UHI-run course which looks at the archaeology of the Highlands and Islands.
The Archaeology and Local Studies qualification was launched in 2015 and has coincided with the development of the Outer Hebrides “Unearthed” project, which brings ancient sites to life using 3D modern technology.
The 12-week course can be studied online and in-person at Cnoc Soilleir in South Uist.
Course Leader Dr Emily Gal said: “It is really rewarding to support people from so many walks of life through their studies and to watch them develop their archaeological knowledge.”