Seventy-five students have just completed the University’s innovative Civic Leadership Training Programme – bringing to 170 the number of students and residents who have taken part in the scheme this year.

The programme has four main objectives: to train participants in teamwork, communication and leadership; to explore issues of mutual concern and to address civic responsibility, equality and diversity; to facilitate an exchange of ideas between the University, students and local residents and to generate ideas from participants for the establishment of community based projects.

During the year the participants developed a range of project concepts ranging from environmental schemes to a mentoring programme for international students to an event company for community organisations.

The Civic Leadership Training Programme has won widespread acclaim. In October the programme won the Good Relations Award at the Business in the Community’s Northern Ireland regional workplace awards.

Endorsing the Civic Leadership Training Programme, the US Consul General in Northern Ireland Mr Howard Dean Pittman, highlighted the importance of individuals demonstrating leadership in their communities:

“The Civic Leadership Training Programme is a terrific initiative by the University of Ulster. We, in America, believe strongly that with rights come responsibility.  And responsibility often requires individuals to show leadership in their communities. One person can make a difference and it is up to each citizen to help create a community that is based on inclusiveness, respect and peace.”

Christopher Johnston, University of Ulster Community Relations Officer said:

“The University of Ulster is at the forefront of providing students with a unique opportunity to take part in a first class training programme which will enable them to develop their leadership potential – so that they can make a positive contribution as civic leaders in communities across Northern Ireland.”

For further information, please contact:

David Young
Telephone: 028 90366074
Email: David Young