A Kenyan tea farmer will visit the University of Aberdeen tomorrow to share his experience of life as a Fairtrade producer.
Julius Ethang'atha's visit on Friday, March 7 comes at the end of Fairtrade Fortnight 2008 celebrations at the University, which has seen staff and students attend a range of tasting and education events.
Ethang'atha will give a first hand account of the impact Fairtrade has on the lives of the producers involved, providing the human story behind the relatively simple purchasing decisions we make.
For details of how to attend this event at Zeste on Friday 7 at 4pm, please visit www.abdn.ac.uk/fairtrade.
Leith Forsyth, Director of Campus Services at the University and Convener of the Fairtrade Steering Group, said he was delighted to be able to welcome a Fairtrade producer to the University.
"Working towards and achieving Fairtrade status underlined the University of Aberdeen's commitment to recognising and helping promote cultural and social awareness amongst its students, staff and visitors.
"Having the opportunity to listen, first-hand, to a Fairtrade Producer will further demonstrate to staff and students the very real and positive impact that their support for Fairtrade has on the lives of producers like Julius."
Steve Cannon, the University Secretary added: "We are delighted to be able to welcome Julius Ethang'atha to the University of Aberdeen. His visit provides staff and students with a rare opportunity to experience the personal story that lies behind the Fairtrade logo.
"The University is committed to the promotion of sustainable development with initiatives in energy efficiency, paper recycling and the development of a staff volunteering policy. Supporting Fairtrade is another example of the University's commitment to social justice and to embedding responsible and sustainable actions into its daily business."
Betsy Reed, the Fair Trade Nation Campaign Coordinator for the Scottish Fair Trade Forum praised the University of Aberdeen's commitment to Fairtrade.
"The sheer range of activities and areas in which Aberdeen University has sought to embed the principles of Fair Trade makes it one of the leading Scottish Universities in terms of its support and promotion of Fair Trade," she said.
"I am delighted that the University will be hosting Kenyan Fairtrade tea producer Julius Ethang'atha. His visit helps underline the fact that Aberdeen has been - and will no doubt continue to be - a leader on Fair Trade in Scotland's universities."
Further details regarding the University's Fairtrade activities can be viewed at www.abdn.ac.uk/fairtrade