The summit is the culmination of a year-long AUG Student Panel 2024 initiative, where PhD representatives from each university explored topics around place, the economy and partnerships, all focused on the sustainable growth of the region.

The Summit began with a welcome from Prof Andrew Church, Pro-Vice Chancellor, Research and Innovation at the University of Bedfordshire, followed by a keynote address by Matt Allen, Executive Director of the Supercluster Board. Matt spoke about the importance of academia and busiensses working together to foster innovation and economic growth for the Oxford-Cambridge region. Both set an inspiring tone for the day.

Interactive sessions added to the day’s depth, with Stuart Edwards from East West Rail leading a workshop that challenged the students to think critically about community consultation, user experience, and building a legacy for future generations. The timing could not have been better, with funding secured in last week’s Budget and the official consultation for East West Rail starting on November 14th. The students delivered insights and timely discussions around shaping the future of rail for the region and the UK. Mariella Noto also led an engaging discussion on sustainable chemical management in textiles, highlighting practical actions that are needed to improve industry standards.

A highlight of the summit was the 3-minute thesis competition, where students were challenged to present their research in just three minutes to a panel of judges: Prof Yvonne Barnett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, ARU, Prof Nigel Adams of Buckingham Enterprise and Innovation Unit, and Dr Christina Schwabenland from the University of Bedfordshire. Topics included sustainable practices in the fashion industry, AI in marketing for SMEs, and the innovative use of topographic surface changes to assist police in detecting grave sites – the latter securing Mike Walters, PhD researcher at Cranfield University first place for his inspiring and engaging presentation – all within the 3 minute time cap. 

The afternoon also featured a discussion of the Student Panel members, led by Chair of the Arc Universities Group, Professor Alistair Fitt. Following their workshops and webinars over the past few months, he posed the question, “What is your ask of Government?” The panel’s responses included prioritising quality of life, promoting healthy, sustainable travel options and affordable living in the region, increasing the role and prominence of creative industries and support for students – at all levels, from schools to PhDs.

The Quality of Life session that followed was timely and started to look at how we answer the panel’s requests, with England’s Economic Hearthland’s Naomi Green, Prof Dave Valler, and Dr Tom Hambley, discussing the power of community engagement, connectivity, and addressing future infrastructure needs. This session invited students to think long-term about creating purposeful spaces and ensuring a high quality of life for generations to come.

Culminating in a round up by Dr Richard Hutchins, Managing Director of the Oxford to Cambridge panel-Regional Partnership, he shared how inspiring the day had been – a milestone event that fostered dialogue, innovation and collaboration, spotlighting young researchers and future leaders and igniting conversations on how the region can embed sustainability for a lasting, positive impact. 

We look forward to sharing reflections and insights from the students and attendees over the coming weeks, with a video of the day, coming soon!

Thanks to Summit Director, Dr Winifred Soribe, and Alistair Lomax, for organising the event, with support from many, including Chloe Head, Ceri Evans, Andrew Church and the hospitality team at the University of Bedfordshire.