Queen’s University has launched its civic mission by pledging to become a Civic University and University of Sanctuary.
The path to achieving Sanctuary status will reaffirm the University’s dedication to its social charter by intent to welcome people seeking sanctuary through facilitated access to higher education and support to local refugee communities.
The move will further endorse Belfast’s City of Sanctuary status, passed as a Council motion in April 2022, and build on recent support measures made by Queen’s such as increasing provision of fellowships for at-risk academics, and Copty Scholarships for Palestinian students.
The proceedings took place at Queen’s with a live event compèred by Donna Traynor an address by the University’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, and panel discussions from representatives across the business, community and education sectors.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor said:
“Queen’s has always played a pivotal role in the social, cultural and economic backdrop of Northern Ireland.
“Over the years we have produced a skilled workforce of graduates in many disciplines, worked with external partners to address shared challenges locally and internationally, and been a place for open debate and dialogue.
“The signing of today’s pledges to become both a Civic University, and University of Sanctuary, will see us build on these strong foundations.”
Queen’s seeking to become a Civic University further recognises the unique and privileged position of universities in shaping the world we live in through their social and civic responsibilities.
Initiatives such as co-designed community-based projects in the Greater Shankill and Market areas have delivered hugely positive impacts and demonstrate how a partnership approach between communities, policymakers and academics can work towards lasting change.
Through its Widening Participation programme, Queen’s is also committed to helping those hugely able, but highly unlikely, to participate in Higher Education, overcome obstacles that stand in their way.
Welcoming today’s pledges, Dr Ryan Feeney, Vice-President of Strategic Engagement and External Affairs, states:
“Queen’s University is committed to tackling disadvantage and improving outcomes for everyone in our society, particularly for children and young people, and for those who face a greater degree of obstacles in accessing higher education.
“In collaboration with partners across the public, private and third sectors, we will use our position to help solve the challenges faced by individuals and communities at a local, regional and global level.”
CAPTION
Dr Ryan Feeny, Vice-President of Strategic Engagement and External Affairs; Beth Elder – Queen’s Students’ Union President; Queen’s Vice Chancellor – Professor Sir Ian Greer; Kieran Minto – President Elect, Queen’s Students’ Union; Chair of Belfast City of Sanctuary Mehrshad Esfandia