Saturday 15th June 2019

 

The successful summer meeting was held on Saturday June 15th 2019 in the McEwan Hall.  The formal proceedings were followed by an excellent presentation from  Professor James Smith, Vice-Principal International, and an interactive panel discussion with senior academics whose work is focused on the University's engagement in and with Africa.

Music was provided by Alla Leake, percussion musicians from Guinea and the Gambia, and members were entranced by the beautiful recital given by Ifeanyichukwu Ezinmadu, a classically trained painist and a Mastercard Scholar currently studying at the University of Edinburgh.

You can watch a short recording from the day here. 

A buffet lunch in the auditorium gave participants the opportunity to engage with an array of exhibits and learn about the range of the University's important projects in Africa.  The event ended with a film about the Mastercard Scholars initiative.

Liz Reilly, Development and Alumni's Director of Philanthropy and Donor Relations was present to escort donors to view their tile in the Pathway to Enlightenment.

 

Attendees to the meeting were presented with a pack containing the following resources:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

You can view the slides used in the presentations below:

 

 

 

Here's what some of our guests had to say:

"Many congratulations and warmest thanks on arranging such a successful and imaginative Half Yearly meeting."

"I thought the format for Saturday was excellent. The projects with African, and our African students and colleagues are tremendously inspiring."

"My sincere congratulations to you on organising such an interesting and entertaining Half Yearly meeting.  The presentations and speakers were notable.  I had no realisation of the University's commitment in Africa. Impressive. The entertainment from the entry drum beat and xylophone started the day well and our young pianist was an inspiration to all of his age to persevere with their chosen careers until they achieve what they want.  A remarkable musician and credit to the University for giving him this chance in life."

"Many thanks for a stimulating and varied day with so many quality presentations.  The acoustics were excellent and generally the level of service from all the "ushers" was very friendly and helpful."