University open day marks a milestone
Discovery event celebrates fifty years on campus
The University of Stirling threw its doors open to the community for a day of discovery at the weekend, to celebrate a milestone anniversary.
Thousands of people were welcomed on Saturday (March 18) to explore a packed timetable of free activities, highlighting the university’s flair for innovation and a history of 50 years of life on campus.
Professor Gerry McCormac, principal and vice-chancellor of the university, said: “It was tremendous to see so many people – alumni, retired staff, and local families – visit the university and join staff and students to mark 50 years of inspiring learning and teaching, and impactful research.
“Openness is one of our key values and there’s no better way to celebrate our vibrant history than by opening our doors to the local community to celebrate our collective heritage.”
The day’s programme included a hands-on science fair, a scavenger hunt and a chance to learn CPR skills. There was a fantastic response to a call for people to share their memories of the university with numerous photographs catalogued and oral history interviews recorded – ensuring that all the memories collected on the day will be added to the university’s archives.
Members of the public had the chance to delve into a programme of engaging science cabaret talks, short lectures and activities covering a range of fascinating subjects, from Brexit, history, creative writing, poetry readings through to tours of the art collection.
The rare opportunity to see the Victorian Columbian Printing press in operation and print a commemorative bookmark to keep was a clear favourite with families, who clearly enjoyed learning about the traditional printing techniques and the history of printing in Scotland. Children from Bridge of Allan Primary School curated a special time capsule which was buried on campus, to be dug up in 2067.
There was also an opportunity for visitors to hear from Stirling Honorary Graduate, and former headteacher of St Ninians Primary School, Elaine Wyllie. Local children donned their trainers to show members of the public how they can benefit from taking part in The Daily Mile. Stirling scientists are currently examining the impact of the initiative on children’s health.
For more information visit www. stir.ac.uk/anniversary