Construction apprentices marked the event by adding the final shovels of concrete to complete the huge structural frame, one of two projects for the city’s new college.

The campus, which is due to open in August, will feature state-of-the-art engineering workshops for renewable energy, maritime and mechanical students.

Mr Russell said: “City of Glasgow’s twin campuses will add a new dynamic to the city.

“This incredible new campus will reflect the close links that the college has built with employers across many industries.”

The Riverside Campus, at the site of the former Nautical College in the Gorbals, will feature hi-tech classrooms, sunken gardens and engineering workshops.

It will also feature a working ship’s engine room, free fall lifeboats and a ship simulator to put students at the helm of a range of ships, including today’s huge super tankers.

Apprentice technician Craig MacHaffie, from Anderston, said: “I’ve learned so much during my time here - it’s such a big construction project - hopefully it’ll help me to become a fully qualified engineer.

“It’s good to have a job that’s local and it’s so interesting seeing a job through from start to finish.”

The completed super campus will be the size of 11 football pitches and be home to around 40,000 students a year.

Construction is supporting more than 800 jobs, including creating 170 new jobs, 40 new apprenticeships and contracts for local businesses.

The college’s second site, City Campus - set to open in August 2016 - is being built on Cathedral Street and will bring new parkland to the city centre as well as a row of city centre shops run by students.

City of Glasgow College Principal Paul Little said: “Our new waterfront campus will be another incredible icon for the city.

“This will be a college like never seen before, a 21st century powerhouse for skills development bringing employers, students and teachers together.”