When I was young, I remember my dad – a primary school principal for most of his career – speaking about the decision not to locate Northern Ireland’s second university in this city. Normally measured and mild-mannered, I vividly recall the anger in his voice when the subject arose. He saw it through the lens of education and opportunity, a decision that would shape talent and economic prospects for generations. For him, it was a missed opportunity not just for Derry and the North West, but for the country as a whole.

In March 2024, when the Minister for the Economy invited me to join the Magee Expansion Taskforce to help create a roadmap to 10,000 students, I was proud to accept. This is now a Programme for Government commitment. Progress has been real and measurable. Student enrolment has reached 6,505, a 60% increase since 2021. Land has been secured and new teaching facilities are opening at Timber Quay. The Programme Business Case has been completed, unlocking the next phase of investment.

The Minister, the Department for the Economy and Ulster University – led by its Vice-Chancellor – have demonstrated clear resolve in turning commitment into delivery.

But 10,000 students is not an end in itself. It is the foundation for economic transformation.

A university of this scale can raise productivity and strengthen our skills base and research capacity. It supports areas that matter: health, advanced manufacturing, digital innovation, engineering, business, and the creative industries. It can support indigenous enterprise, attract investment, and expand participation in the labour market. Realising that potential requires sustained investment, academic excellence and strong alignment with the wider economy. If we get that right, it strengthens Northern Ireland’s competitiveness and contributes positively across the island.

Growth must be balanced and relevant, expanding across faculties while ensuring courses, research, and innovation reflect real demand and future growth sectors.

The next phase of growth will be more demanding. Funding certainty, student accommodation, and infrastructure that keeps pace with student numbers and economic activity will determine whether we fully realise the opportunity.

This cannot be delivered by the University or the Department alone. Business, civic leadership and the wider region must lean in.

Businesses must offer placements, co-design programmes, and back innovation. Employers must support graduates who want to build careers and companies here at home.

The expansion is underway. Now we must collectively ensure its impact is lasting and transformational.