On Wednesday 3 May 2023, the Awarding Gap Project Team hosted an electrifying debate on critical dialogue around higher education. The debate was designed and organised by the Awarding Gap Project Panel, made up of undergraduate students at the University.
The purpose of the event was to engage students, staff and other University stakeholders on contemporary issues within higher education and discuss topics such as access to university and awarding gaps.
The guest of honour was Jason Arday, recently appointed Professor of Sociology of Education at University of Cambridge. Professor Arday contributed his knowledge and expertise to the evening and discussion.
Student panellists Tyler Nagbe and David Obayori joined the scholar on stage for the debate. Professor Arday praised the panel and students at Southampton, stating that they were proof of 鈥榚xcellence鈥� and that their passion was an 鈥榠nspiration鈥� to him.
The evening highlighted the gap in access to higher education and opportunities, specifically for Black and minoritised students, and that more can be done to improve this. It was also highlighted that widening participation programmes need to be both intersectional and culturally sensitive to the experiences of students from minoritised backgrounds, and universities must look beyond diversity quotas, and focus on building confident scholars and future leaders.
Camilla Gibson, Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion was impressed by the panel, saying: 鈥淚t was truly amazing. The buzz in the room was palpable. So much energy, passion, skill, and talent. […] It is moments like this that help bring our vision for equality, diversity, and inclusion to life.鈥�
Get involved 鈥� The Gala
On Friday 16 June, the Awarding Gap Project Panel will be hosting The Gala – a student event, celebrating African and Caribbean cultures at the University of Southampton. The Gala will be held in the and is open to all University students to attend. You can .
If you are interested in finding out more about the Awarding Gap Project, or would like to collaborate with us, please contact us by email at: awardinggapproject@soton.ac.uk