University pledge to support new civic agreement
SCARBOROUGH’S UNIVERSITY provider is to formalise its commitment to improving the economic, social and cultural wellbeing of the town and its surrounding area.
Coventry University, which has its site CU Scarborough in the town, is to produce a Civic University Agreement in partnership with local government.
The new agreement, to be drawn up by 30 institutions nationwide, is a key recommendation in a report published by the Civic University Commission set up by the UPP Foundation and chaired by the former Head of the Civil Service, Lord Kerslake.
In the report, Lord Kerslake had warned a more joined up approach is needed from universities around civic activity to make sure this is more closely aligned with the needs of the communities.
Calling on Government to review policies to support civic engagement, he had further warned that challenges around resources may impact on work already being done.
Now Coventry University, which submitted examples of how it engaged with the community in the report, has welcomed the report and pledged to formalise their intentions.
Citing examples such as hosting short courses for residents, sponsoring Scarborough Athletic FC and supporting events such as Coastival, the university, set up in 2015, said it was already making an impact on the local economy.
“We are very proud of the contribution we have made and continue to make in Scarborough, not just through the provision of education but by supporting jobs, leading innovation, sharing skills, and opening up opportunity and experiences for all,” said Kay Fraser, interim associate Pro Vice Chancellor at CU Scarborough.
“We are fully committed to building on the work we do in Scarborough with partners across local government, business and the third sector.
“We therefore welcome the recommendation from the Civic University Commission calling on universities to formalise their commitment to their local communities.”