Author: Shaun Williams, Executive Director Engagement and Advancement
- UEB again discussed the deeply concerning developments in the Middle East, and the harrowing accounts of the treatment of civilians which continue to emerge. We know that many in our community have connections to the region and will be desperately concerned about the welfare of family and friends in Israel and Gaza. Our thoughts are with all those affected, and we have ensured there is awareness of the additional support that is available to our students and staff, if needed.
UEB also noted a letter sent to Vice-Chancellors by the Secretary of State for Education, calling for swift action against any threats to the safety and welfare of Jewish students, especially those who are just beginning their studies. UEB were very concerned to hear about the very significant increase in anti-Semitic incidents nationwide, and too an increase in the number of Islamophobic incidents.
Last week the Vice-Chancellor issued a message to our community underlining the need, at a very difficult time in which tensions and emotions can inevitably be heightened, to ensure that we as an inclusive community adhere to values and behaviours which can unite us, and not divide us.
UEB is also clear that it is right that students and staff can freely and respectfully express their lawful views in a safe space, whilst ensuring that all members of our community feel safe, supported and included.
We will never tolerate any form of discrimination, incitement, bullying or harassment, and we will not hesitate to take swift and decisive action against any threats to our Jewish students and staff, or our Muslim students and staff, or to any other members of our community, or faiths, to ensure their safety and wellbeing. Staff and students can use the Report and Support tool to report unacceptable behaviour anonymously, or with their details in order to access support.
We all fervently hope for a swift and peaceful resolution to this situation before many more lives are lost. - UEB were then delighted to hear that our University has won a Gold (Highly Commended) Award in the UK Social Mobility Awards, in the University of the Year category, for the second year running. UEB congratulated and thanked all those colleagues across the University involved in ensuring we are a fairer place for all.
- The rest of the meeting was focused on the quarterly review of our Strategic Major Projects portfolio, with 14 projects currently live and more than 22 coming through the pipeline, excluding Estates projects. There was also an update from the IT Strategic Programme Board, and an update on the Estates Strategic Capital Projects, with an overview to be discussed at November Council. This quarterly review also saw the introduction of strategic updates from each of our five Faculties, an initiative that was warmly welcomed by UEB. It’s clear overall that very good progress is being made on our strategic major projects, which will underpin the successful delivery of our University strategic plans and the Triple-Helix Strategy.
- Finally, UEB noted the Annual Assurance Statements, completed each year by all Deans and Executive Directors to provide assurance to the Vice-Chancellor and Audit Committee of compliance relating to key areas of risk; and there was the regular review of the University Risk Register.