In her monthly column, our Vice-Chancellor Professor Karen O'Brien shares some examples of how Durham University research is making a difference, locally and globally, and invites all to join our Global Week events, starting this weekend (Saturday 24 February).
Earlier this month we hosted the ‘Up North’ event, which brought together researchers, students, culture practitioners and others to explore how we can generate new opportunities for our region. Contributors included Dr Henry Kippin, Chief Executive of the North of Tyne Combined Authority and Nick Malyan the CEO of Redhills (Durham Miner’s Association).
The event comprised an afternoon ideas forum and an evening panel discussion on growing new opportunities in the North East, both of which sparked important conversations about how we can all work together for the benefit of the region.
With the recent Arts Council England announcement of £1.25 million for ‘Into the Light’ programme, which will see world-class events, skills development, and community-led activities take place across County Durham in 2025, it’s an exciting time for culture-led regeneration – and we’re committed to being right at the heart of it.
Last week, we were pleased to be able to host and facilitate a meeting of The Northern Echo’s North East Knife Crime Taskforce, where victims’ families, police leaders, teachers and others shared their experiences and ideas for change with Yvette Cooper, the Shadow Home Secretary.
Ms Cooper also had a policy meeting with academics from our pioneering Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse (CRiVA) – another demonstration of how we’re putting our facilities, experience and research to use to change society for the better.
Starting later this week (Saturday 24 February) is our second annual Global Week: an opportunity to showcase the cultural diversity that exists across Durham University, and the impact that Durham has right across the world.
There are over 40 events planned, most of which are open to all, ranging from Year of the Dragon celebrations and art exhibitions to discussions and performances. We hope to see you there.
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