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Swansea University, which this year is marking its centenary, is to channel funds that were previously earmarked for celebration events, into fighting Covid-19 and to champion innovation.
Swansea University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Boyle made the announcement to staff and students saying that due the Covid-19 pandemic, all physical centenary events had been postponed to keep the University community safe, and instead a series of virtual events to mark the historic occasion would be held.
The University has also repurposed £200,000 funding set aside for its centenary celebrations along with donations received from supporters, to support talented academics, students and staff by providing grants for Covid-19 research and boosting the student hardship fund to help students directly affected by the pandemic.
Professor Boyle said: “Since opening our doors 100 years ago we have innovated, collaborated and grown into a dual campus, world class institution which serves its community, educates its people, tackles global problems and provides a home for so many. Our achievements have impacted the world in many ways, and we are extremely proud to have reached this significant milestone in our rich history.
“Unfortunately, we are unable to celebrate these achievements in the way we had planned, so we have now taken the difficult decision to postpone all physical centenary events in 2020. While we are disappointed not to be celebrating in person with our staff, partners, alumni, students and friends, we must ensure the safety of our communities and acknowledge that this is a very difficult time for many of the Swansea family.
“We will instead be developing virtual events throughout the remainder of the year and will also start working on a new programme of events which will take place once we can gather together safely in the future.
“Despite the challenges currently facing the Higher Education sector, this is an important step which underlines our commitment to impactful research and caring for our students. These principles have been part of our fabric for 100 years and will continue to be as we look forward to our next century.”