Students given a voice on global issues
The major global issues affecting the future of our planet such as climate change, natural disasters, and poverty in the developing world will be discussed at a new event aimed at promoting science to potential students.
The University of Aberdeen will launch its very own version of ‘Question Time’ at its annual Open Day on Tuesday, August 29, when thousands of prospective students will descend on King’s College campus.
The event, which is being organised to include the trademark panel and David Dimbleby-style chairperson, will address major world issues in a bid to spark an interest in science among prospective students who would otherwise have chosen a non-science course.
The topics that are likely to be explored in the ‘Global Challenges Question Time’ include climate change, the energy gap, Aids, poverty, pollution, pandemics, natural disasters, and population dynamics. The event will focus on what universities in general, and in particular the University of Aberdeen, can do to address these global challenges and how graduates with science degrees are essential if universities are to find solutions that will really make a difference.
Gordon Walkden, Professor in Geology and Petroleum Geology, who will be chairing ‘Question Time’, said it was important to showcase general science as a viable option to all students – whether they are studying politics, sociology, or medicine.
He said: “The idea behind ‘Global Challenges Question Time’ is to show how science and technology must lead the way if we are to solve many of the societal and political issues that currently affect the world. We want to generate interest in science among students with a wide range of academic interests who may not necessarily choose science as their first option.
“Issues such as climate change and natural disasters are of major concern to scientists and politicians and with the extremely hot weather we have been experiencing of late, coupled with the fact that global warming is at the forefront of the political agenda, we believe these kind of issues will spark a new commitment to science for the next generation of students.”
Potential students at the Open Day are being given the chance to put their questions to the expert panel, which will include Professor Anne Glover, the newly appointed Chief Scientific Adviser for Scotland who is based within the University of Aberdeen’s Molecular & Cell Biology department. Professor Glover will also be joined by Professor Trevor Salmon, from the University’s Politics and International Relations department.
“Students and science graduates are well placed to contribute towards solutions to global challenges and we’re hoping that the visiting students at the Open Day will submit questions about issues concerning them and about the work done at the University,” added Professor Walkden.
“’Question Time’ will also demonstrate how a degree from Aberdeen will equip students to really make a difference.”
Students-to-be can submit their questions to the Question Time panel either by email to: openday@abdn.ac.uk by Monday, August 28, or by hand on the day. There will be a prize worth £25 for every question selected and put to the panel.
The Open Day is one of the University’s biggest and most important events of the year and is aimed mainly at those interested in coming to study at Aberdeen in September 2007. It is open to people of all ages looking for more information on the University and studying at Aberdeen and late applicants for 2006 entry will also be very welcome to attend.
The Open Day is set to attract upwards of 4,500 visitors from across the UK, Europe and worldwide.
Lesley MacLennan, the University’s Marketing Officer, said ‘Question Time’ would complement the Open Day’s diverse programme of activities. She said: “The Open Day is packed full of lively sessions and talks to appeal to the young student market. ‘Question Time’ will be the ideal chance for the University to showcase its work and research in the science arena, while proactively involving visitors in the Open Day.
“The aim of the Open Day is, ultimately to ensure our potential students have as much fun as possible while finding out about what the University has to offer, and events such as ‘Question Time’ can only enhance our reputation as a forward-thinking institution.”
Booking is essential for the Open Day on August 29 and prospective students must log on to www.abdn.ac.uk/openday to register their place or call Student Recruitment and Admissions on 0800 027 1495, or email: openday@abdn.ac.uk