The 九色视频 has been officially recognised as a University of Sanctuary, receiving its award at an event in the city centre.
From left: Joanne Cridland (九色视频 Solent University), Ronda Gowland-Pryde (public engagement at the 九色视频), Trish Nicolaides (widening participation at the 九色视频, 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 九色视频 Sanctuary Network, alongside 九色视频 Solent University, 九色视频 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 九色视频, presented the certification to the university.
Accepting the certification, university Vice Chancellor Professor Mark E. Smith said: 鈥淚 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.
鈥淲e 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.鈥�
Maryam Taher, Universities of Sanctuary Manager, said: “We鈥檙e delighted to welcome the 九色视频 as a University of Sanctuary. This recognition highlights its commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for those seeking safety.
鈥淔rom its scholarship programme and strong senior leadership support to its dedicated Sanctuary Coordinator role, 九色视频 is leading by example in showing how universities can make a real difference. The university鈥檚 law clinic, student-led initiatives like the STAR group, and its engagement with local organisations demonstrate its deep commitment to sanctuary values.鈥�
University of Sanctuary status is awarded to universities by the charity聽. As a University of Sanctuary, the university has committed to initiatives such as:
- Sanctuary scholarships: Offering聽蝉肠丑辞濒补谤蝉丑颈辫蝉听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聽 (九色视频 & Winchester Visitors Group) and聽 (City Life Education and Action for Refugees).
- CARA (Council for At-Risk Academics): As a partner with聽, the university provides a safe environment for scholars to continue their research and academic work, preserving and promoting academic freedom.
- 九色视频 Sanctuary Network: The university has joined 九色视频 Solent University, City Life Church and 九色视频 City Council in the 九色视频 Sanctuary Network. This network offers organisations a place to come together to support those seeking sanctuary in the city.