USW and Urban Circle Strengthen Partnership to Support Communities Across Wales

USW and Urban Circle have formally signed a Partnership Agreement, marking an important milestone in their shared commitment to widening participation, advancing equality, and creating opportunities for communities across Wales.

The agreement builds on the strong relationship established through a Memorandum of Understanding in 2023 and strengthens collaboration between the two organisations in areas including education, training, student engagement, community outreach, and anti-racist practice. 

Signed by Professor Osama Khan, Vice-Chancellor of USW, and Peter Landers, Chair of Urban Circle's Board of Trustees, the agreement reflects a shared ambition to create meaningful opportunities for learners and support positive social change. 

Professor Osama Khan, Vice-Chancellor said "I was delighted to be present for the signing of this partnership, which marks an important step in strengthening our commitment to widening participation and community impact. By working alongside Urban Circle, we are deepening our role as a civic university, creating meaningful pathways for young people to realise their ambitions." 

Louise Bright, Pro Vice Chancellor for Enterprise, Engagement and Partnerships said "At USW, we believe that every young person should have the opportunity to fulfil their potential, regardless of their background or circumstances. That's why we're proud to be partnering with Urban Circle, an organisation that shares our commitment to inclusion, aspiration and opportunity. By working together, we can help more young people build confidence, develop their skills and access the support they need to progress into education, employment and rewarding futures. We look forward to creating positive change for young people and the communities we serve." 

Through the agreement, USW and Urban Circle will work together on a range of initiatives, including guest lectures, student placements, widening participation activities, community engagement programmes, consultation and advisory support, and opportunities to share expertise and knowledge. 

The partnership will contribute to wider efforts to promote equality, diversity and inclusion, supporting the Race Equality Charter and aligning with the Welsh Government's Anti-Racist Wales Action Plan. 

Representatives from both organisations came together to celebrate the signing and reflect on the positive impact already achieved through the partnership. The event also provided an opportunity to explore future areas of collaboration and reaffirm a shared commitment to supporting learners and communities across Wales. 

As USW and Urban Circle look ahead, the agreement provides a strong foundation for continued partnership working that will help create opportunities, strengthen communities, and support future generations to succeed.