The University of BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 has been officially recognised as a University of Sanctuary, receiving its award at an event in the city centre.
From left: Joanne Cridland (BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Solent University), Ronda Gowland-Pryde (public engagement at the University of BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载), Trish Nicolaides (widening participation at the University of BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载, Claire Giles (University of Sanctuary Co-ordinator), Vice Chancellor Professor Mark E. Smith, Professor Jane Falkingham (Vice President Engagement and International), and Paul Woodman (City Life Church).
As a University of Sanctuary, the institution is recognised for its commitment to creating a culture of safety, inclusion and support for those seeking sanctuary.
The university has joined the BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Sanctuary Network, alongside BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Solent University, BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 City Council and City Life Church.
Paul Woodman, leader of City Life Church and founder of City Life Education and Action for Refugees (CLEAR), a charity that supports refugees and asylum seekers in BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载, presented the certification to the university.
Accepting the certification, university Vice Chancellor Professor Mark E. Smith said: “I am very proud of the commitment we are making to support and improve the lives of students and academics from across the world who are seeking sanctuary.
“We will continue to build on all we do to ensure those fleeing persecution are welcomed into our university community and empowered to achieve their potential.”
Maryam Taher, Universities of Sanctuary Manager, said: “We’re delighted to welcome the University of BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 as a University of Sanctuary. This recognition highlights its commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for those seeking safety.
“From its scholarship programme and strong senior leadership support to its dedicated Sanctuary Coordinator role, BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 is leading by example in showing how universities can make a real difference. The university’s law clinic, student-led initiatives like the STAR group, and its engagement with local organisations demonstrate its deep commitment to sanctuary values.”
University of Sanctuary status is awarded to universities by the charity?City of Sanctuary. As a University of Sanctuary, the university has committed to initiatives such as:
- Sanctuary scholarships: Offering?scholarships?to support students who are seeking sanctuary in the UK. The university has awarded 16 sanctuary scholarships to date, with students coming from Ukraine, Pakistan, Afghanistan, South Africa, Nigeria and Palestine.
- Academic research and teaching: The university is home to research focused on the experiences of those seeking sanctuary, exploring global migration and social justice. The university teaches courses and modules offering students the opportunity to engage with these critical issues, developing global awareness.
- Community engagement: The university works with local and national communities such as?SWVG (BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 & Winchester Visitors Group) and?CLEAR (City Life Education and Action for Refugees).
- CARA (Council for At-Risk Academics): As a partner with?CARA, the university provides a safe environment for scholars to continue their research and academic work, preserving and promoting academic freedom.
- BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Sanctuary Network: The university has joined BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Solent University, City Life Church and BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 City Council in the BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Sanctuary Network. This network offers organisations a place to come together to support those seeking sanctuary in the city.