The University of B.C.’s Okanagan campus is playing a role in the region’s economy.
Regional District of North Okanagan directors were provided an update Wednesday on the campus, which has 8,392 students enrolled this year, including 6,800 undergrads from across Canada.
“Sixty per cent of the grads stay in the region which is an injection of young talent,” said Bud Mortenson, director of university relations.
Beyond that, the campus is looking at ultimately establishing a research precinct where businesses can settle and work co-operatively with the university.
“It would be an area for large and small start-ups and manufacturing,” said Mortenson.
“We’re already seeing some keen interest.”
UBCO has annual research funding of $18.5 million.
Since the campus opened in 2005, it has graduated 11,000 students and expanded to eight faculties and schools as well as 53 bachelor degree programs and 14 masters programs.
To keep up with the demand for education, UBCO has developed a 20-year plan for facilities. Among the priorities is expanding the library, which was built to accommodate 3,000 people.