Queen’s University Belfast has extended its global reach with the launch of a new campus in GIFT City, India, with the first cohort of students expected to start in January 2026.
Queen’s gift to India to reap financial reward?
Located in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City), the campus commitment over an initial five-year period cements Queen’s position as a leading global university that is committed to fostering international collaborations.
The new international campus will offer a portfolio of five postgraduate programmes initially, tailored to the specific needs of the Indian economy.
There are plans to increase the range of courses in the coming years and to welcome PhD students who will support the growth of the India campus into a hub for research and innovation.
Initial Master’s programmes will focus on equipping students with high-demand skills in the areas of finance, technology and business analytics, providing an enriching learning experience with Queen’s through an industry-ready curriculum.
QUB President and Vice-Chancellor Prof Sir Ian Greer said: “The projected returns from the investment will be re-invested in core university activities and are a key component in supporting the university’s financial sustainability.”
New recruits to the rescue?
The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is seeking to bolster its network across NI and has launched a major recruitment drive for on-call firefighters across 43 stations in every county.
“This rewarding role offers a unique opportunity to save lives, protect property, provide advice and serve your local community — all while fitting around you and your existing commitments,” the service said.
“NIFRS offers a range of contracted hours to suit you and your lifestyle.”
Applicants should live or work within five minutes of an on-call fire station. Candidates can apply online and can download application packs from www.nifrs.org. The closing time and date for applications is at noon on Friday, February 14.
Fallen fairy tree seeks magic touch
Storm Eowyn downed tens of thousands of trees across Northern Ireland last weekend, with 10,000 estimated to have fallen at the National Trust’s Mount Stewart Estate alone, while the Dark Hedges lost four more of its ever declining number, but in Co Tyrone, the seeming demise of one tree in particular has seen a little bit of magic seep from the world.
The lone fairy tree at the historic Beaghmore Stone Circles is no longer standing — a tree which has been the focus of thousands of photographs taken by visitors to the mysterious stone circles which date back to the Bronze Age.
It has always been a popular spot from which to watch the summer solstice.
While the tree remains intact, though, there could be a chance to save it. Uprooted rather than unearthed entirely, it can hopefully, with a little expert care, be replanted and thus survive and remain a fairy tale focal point for years to come.