The University of Westminster has partnered with the University of the Arctic (UArctic), alongside the Royal College of Art, to give students and colleagues the chance to collaborate globally through research and education programmes to support the sustainable development of the Far North and the Arctic.
UArctic is a network of universities, colleges, research institutes and other organisations concerned with education and research in and about the North. It builds and strengthens collective resources and infrastructures that enable member institutions to better serve their constituents and their regions.
Through cooperation in education, research and outreach each member organisation enhances human capacity in the North, promotes viable communities and sustainable economies and forges global partnerships. Created through the Arctic Council and based in Finland, UArctic is committed to upholding its principles of sustainable development as well as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).
As part of the network the University of Westminster will have access to exclusive research funding from key partners such as the World Wildlife Fund and the National Science Foundation to contribute to work preventing, mitigating, adapting and reversing the effects of climate change in the Arctic.
In addition to colleague research, membership brings benefits to the student community, as it offers student mobility programmes that will enable Westminster students to experience life and study at one of the many partner institutions.
Dr Monica Germanà, Westminster’s Primary Representative to the Assembly of UArctic, said: “UArctic Membership is not just a matter of accruing further evidence of our global presence, but a commitment to build meaningful collaborative projects and relations where it matters the most, in order to think sustainably about research, climate and the future of humankind. What happens in the Arctic has repercussions all over the world, and as the closest non-Arctic nation to the Arctic, it is particularly important for UK institutions to engage in research and education programmes that will make an actual difference in the future.”
This partnership directly contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities, 13: Climate Action and 17: Partnerships for the Goals. Since 2019, the University of Westminster has used the SDGs holistically to frame strategic decisions to help students and colleagues fulfil their potential and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable and healthier society.
To find out more about UArctic membership contact Dr Monica Germanà or sign up to the UArctic Newsletter.
Find out more about Global Partner Networks at the University of Westminster.
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