Christmas is round the corner and for lots of us it’s an excuse to eat and drink more than enough to put us on Santa’s naughty list. However, here in Scotland we just can’t seem to quit the puddings and the pies no matter what time of year it is.
Alcohol and fried food, combined with dreich weather means many opt to cosy up on the sofa rather than climb a Munro. This combination has resulted in Scotland facing significant public health challenges. These are compounded by social issues linked to poverty.
Historically this has resulted in our reputation for poor health outcomes and a high incidence of ailments like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and respiratory illnesses. In spite of this we are also world-leaders in health technology research and innovation.
For example, I recently covered a Scottish start-up, Novasound, who recently announced it will revolutionise blood pressure monitoring through tech that can be incorporated into wearable devices like smart watches. The company’s Slanj platform can also be used for hydration tracking and muscle health assessment. The firm will showcase its work at the industry-leading CES trade show in Las Vegas in January.
This is a great example of the private sector working to create products for the public good. However, as far as I am concerned, it’s when the public, private and third sectors work effectively together that we see those pioneering solutions that not just help improve public health in Scotland, but firmly puts this small island on the global stage as a pioneering health tech hub.
That’s why I am proud to see a record-breaking £30 million investment to reimagine the former University of Strathclyde student union building on John Street in Glasgow into a leading entrepreneurial hub.
The 1950s’ building – located in the heart of the Glasgow City Innovation District – has sat empty since the student union moved out in 2021.
It is being funded by a former student of the university, with the renovation of the 10-storey, 5,535sq m premises expected to provide additional research facilities for advancing health technologies.
Startups, as well as established businesses in the health sector, will get opportunities to collaborate with academic experts and leverage cutting-edge facilities for joint ventures and co-development projects.
This will enable businesses to prototype, test, and scale their innovations faster. They will also benefit from access to the University of Strathclyde’s extensive data resources.
It’s certainly not a big stretch to say that this symbiotic relationship between academia and industry has the potential to produce commercially viable health tech solutions that will compete with the world’s best.
This £30 million initiative not only cements Scotland’s reputation as a hub for innovation but also has the potential to boost the economy. The collaboration between academia, industry, and government will create high-value jobs, attract international talent, and encourage investment from global tech leaders.
The ripple effects are likely to extend beyond technology, benefiting sectors such as education, public health, and infrastructure as the hub also aims to provide research facilities for other key sectors such as 5G communications, artificial intelligence, financial technology and space research.
The record-breaking philanthropic contribution behind this hub underscores the importance of private sector support in driving public good. By investing in technology and innovation, philanthropists can act as a catalyst for advancements that benefit society as a whole. The success of this hub could inspire similar initiatives worldwide.
The announcement comes as cardiovascular diseases continue to be amongst the deadliest conditions here. Affecting around 70,000 people, these diseases are responsible for almost three in 10 deaths in Scotland.
In my opinion health is a key driver of economic output – a healthy and happy workforce is an essential component of a high output economy. What better way to combine health improvement and economic stimulus than to kickstart an initiative, through philanthropic investment, that puts these noble aims front and centre.
Scotland’s airports are ready for 5G lift-off
The rigmarole of preparing to board a flight is a stress no one enjoys.
It’s a necessary evil, with the light at the end of the tunnel being an exciting trip ahead to a beautiful destination or, as is often the case for me, an important business trip.
However, in this modern age, there is often an added layer of complexity when technology comes into play.
Whether it’s electronic boarding passes, sending work emails or sorting your data roaming, ensuring a steady internet connection on your phone is vitally important.
That’s why I was pleased to see a Scottish company leading the way with ensuring all our major airports are connected to 5G.
Exchange Communications, who are based in Kirkintilloch, have undertaken a major task in installing 5G to Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow Airport in recent months.
With only Aberdeen to go, Exchange have been able to ensure all travellers arriving in and departing Scotland can rely on a first-class internet connection.
And it’s not just Scotland, Exchange is rolling out its in-building cellular solutions technology across the UK with major contracts won at other airports, including George Best Belfast City Airport.
The ambition and vision of business leaders like Exchange CEO Tom Sime is only good for the Scottish economy and our reputation for innovation across the UK and beyond.
With profits up at Prestwick and outside investment rolling in for Aberdeen, Edinburgh and Glasgow, it feels like our airports are truly ready for take-off.
It Made Me Laugh
Gary the Gorilla swings back into spotlight
I couldn’t help but raise a wry smile when my old friend Gary the Gorilla recently popped up on my TV screen.
Readers may remember back in April when I wrote about Carluke garden centre Reynard Nursery having its 8ft fibreglass gorilla, Gary, pinched and subsequently returned after a year in the wilderness.
And Gary was at it again, popping up on stage with English indie band Blossoms on the BBC’s Jools Holland show.
Inspired by his antics, the band’s latest album and lead single ‘Gary’ is named after the giant primate, with the album going straight to No 1.
Thankfully, Blossoms only possess a replica and what remains of the real Gary is still in Lanarkshire, with his legend luring customers in. For now.
It Made Me Weep
Arts festivals funding crisis casts shadow
I was saddened to hear about the financial state of British arts festivals and worry the threat of some being ‘lost’ could impact Scotland negatively.
A report by the British Arts Festivals Association entitled The Festivals Forward report found that last year, on average, there was a £20,000 funding gap across UK festivals.
For an industry already dependant on grants, it’s a worrying trend, not least for Scottish institutions like the Edinburgh Fringe.
Research and findings are all well and good, but only if they inspire action and allow for growth in our arts sector once again.
Protecting our culture and inspiring future generations of creatives must always be high on our agenda as a nation.
