University programme recognised for work helping Leicestershire businesses reach Net Zero
A Â鶹ÊÓƵ programme has been commended by the Higher Education sector’s most prestigious awards for sustainability in the UK.
The Innovation for Good Programme, part of the Â鶹ÊÓƵ’s Innovation Hub, was highly commended at the 2022 in the Tomorrow’s Employees category.
The programme helps to upskill students to help small and medium-sized enterprises in Leicestershire to become more sustainable and reach Net Zero.
The project has been scaled up through the Universities Partnership to include students from the Â鶹ÊÓƵ, Loughborough University and De Montfort University as they work together to reach further in the region.
The judging panel congratulated all three universities on the creation of a programme that draws students into the world of sustainability as well as engages small and medium enterprises across the county.
President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Nishan Canagarajah said: “Encouraging sustainable innovation to upskill our students is a key way the Â鶹ÊÓƵ is creating green pathways to success.
“This award is a testament to the outstanding leadership by the team and it provides exciting recognition for our students, inspiring them to become future global Citizens of Change.”
Rajinder Bhuhi, Leicester Innovation Hub Manager & Head of Leicester Innovation Accelerator said: “Continuing this programme for both businesses and students is important especially, in a time when the costs are rising for all and our students are the getting the chance to work directly with businesses to gain valuable experience for their careers ahead knowing they are making a difference to the world around them.”
Sandra Lee, Social Impact Lead at the Â鶹ÊÓƵ said, “Environmental sustainability action is crucially important right now, particularly if organisations are going to remain competitive and efficient, which is why it is an important theme of the Universities Partnership work.
“This programme has provided the foundation for an impactful partnership and helps to prepare our graduates for their future careers in a rapidly changing world.”