Local MP Rupa Huq has described the University of West London (UWL) as ‘transformational’ after it was shortlisted for University of the Year in the prestigious Times Higher Education Awards.

Rupa Huq, Member of Parliament for Ealing Central and Acton, said: “As a local-near neighbour and former employee, my relationship with UWL goes back to the 80’s when my mum was a student at the former Ealing HE College. Since then I’ve seen it grow from strength to strength to become the top class university that it is today with strong community links.

“We are fortunate to have a University on our doorstep that combines world-class facilities, excellence in teaching and a real commitment to getting students into careers.

“I was recently tasked by Parliament to find a venue for 10 visiting Commonwealth Parliamentarians from Australia to Zambia so jumped at the chance to entertain them at the University’s Pillars restaurant.”

UWL was one of six institutions shortlisted for University of the Year and the only post-1992 and London university to be shortlisted – but just missed out on the accolade at the recent awards night.

Describing the nomination as ‘a fantastic achievement’, Professor Peter John, Vice-Chancellor of UWL said:

“As a University we continue to grow in size, stature and influence. Our graduates are going on to do great things here in the UK and across the world. However, above all, this nomination reflects our ongoing commitment to inspire our students to become innovative and creative professionals who develop exciting and rewarding careers.”

In June 2017 UWL was awarded Silver in the Government’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and is a top 50 University in the Guardian University Guide 2018.