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20 Mar 2006 15:00:04
The changing roles of universities in society and how they interact with their local communities were on the agenda at the recent Luton Engineers’ Luncheon Club meeting at Barnfield College.
Professor Les Ebdon, Vice Chancellor of the University of Luton, told the Engineers’ Club members that the role of universities has changed significantly since they were founded centuries ago.
He said: “Universities are now expected not only to be centres of excellence in teaching and learning, but also to be research active and contribute to their wider communities through support for business, industry and community activity.”
Graham Cavanagh, of the Bedfordshire Engineers’ Luncheon Club, invited, Professor Ebdon, to talk to members at Barnfield College's Rivermede Restaurant about ‘The Changing Role of a University’.
Professor Ebdon also spoke about the developments of the new university for Bedfordshire which were announced at the end of 2005. The University is to undergo its most significant change yet as it prepares to merge with De Montfort University’s Bedford campus on 1 August 2006.
He went on to describe how a modern university seeks to respond to its various stakeholders, and through consultation with the local community and businesses, the new university will bring new strengths to the county.
The University of Luton, which was established in 1993 from the former Luton College of Higher Education, has already seen a number of changes, including the introduction of new courses to reflect changing student demand and a big growth in business support activities.
Professor Ebdon said: “We have a vision for a new university for Bedfordshire and the key needs of Bedfordshire, to improve the participation of its people in higher education and to regenerate its economy. This will be best served by a new major access and employment oriented university.”
To find out more about studying at the University of Luton call 0800 389 66 33 or visit www.luton.ac.uk.
Latest news» 2006» Apr» Luton engineers hear about the changing role of universities
