The University of Winchester has praised a report detailing a £265 billion economic benefit from British universities.

This latest review, published by London Economics, scrutinises the impact of UK higher education during the 2021-22 academic year.

It underscores the impressive net contributions made by these institutions, not just through teaching and research, but also via innovation activities.

Even after allowing for study subsidies, graduates are shown to hand back an average of £75,000 to the public thanks to their incrementally higher tax and national insurance contributions.

The influence of international students is also cited, with their economic worth swelling from £31.3 billion in 2018/19 to £41.9 billion in 2021/22.

It’s noted that every 11 non-EU scholar generates a £1 million economic upshot for the UK.

The London Economics study further tallies up the regional worth of higher education.

In the South-East, universities inject £36.3 billion into the local economy.

The University of Winchester alone ploughs over £266 million into the region.

The University of Winchester’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sarah Greer, said: "We welcome this report which shows the significant contribution that universities make to the nation’s economy. Universities are a national asset, educating our young people, creating wealth and enriching society.

"As well as making a significant contribution to the local economy, the University of Winchester also plays an important role in creating a healthier, happier and more cohesive community.

"We have a long-standing record in producing outstanding graduates including nurses, teachers, midwives, physiotherapists, social workers and police officers, who all make such a positive impact on our society."

The report also highlights wider societal benefits stemming from higher education.

Graduates typically demonstrate higher productivity levels, contribute to improved health outcomes, and are less inclined to crime.

The commissioned report by Universities UK, which represents 141 universities will be presented during its annual conference this week.

Professor Dame Sally Mapstone, principal and vice-chancellor of the University of St Andrews and President of Universities UK said: “Universities have always been a driving force for boosting growth and opportunity whether directly or indirectly. This latest report reveals for the first time the full scope of the impact of universities and clearly demonstrates the importance of the sector to the economy and society at large.

“It is clear we are at a fork in the road. We can choose to act to ensure our universities thrive, or we can allow them to slide into decline.  For me, the latter path would be unconscionable."