In 2024, the Belfast School of Art commemorated its 175th anniversary, celebrating its legacy of artistic excellence and its significant contribution to the creative community. During this event, James Uhomoibhi, Chair of the BAME+ Network, delivered a speech highlighting the strong allyship between the Network and the School. His address focused on the Network’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and support for marginalised communities within the university.
James emphasised not only the BAME+ Network's dedication to diversity but also the university’s continuous commitment to creating an inclusive environment for all students and staff, particularly those from underrepresented ethnic backgrounds. He detailed the strides the Network has made since its formation in November 2020, and the importance of collaboration between allies in driving change.
Key Achievements of the BAME+ Network
Community Building
The Network has created a supportive community for students and staff, allowing individuals from diverse backgrounds to connect, share experience, and provide the mutual support. Engaging events such as cultural awareness workshops, panel discussions, and informal meet-ups have been integral in fostering strong relationships among members
Structure, Advocacy, and Representation
Through the Networks structure of 7 Working Groups and Board, the BAME+ Network is actively engaged in advocacy for greater representation within the university's governance and decision making processes. Initiatives from these working groups have provided a platform for members for voice their concerns and suggestions, ensuring that diverse perspectives are included in policy discussions. Issues affecting individual staff and students have been identified and swiftly resolved.
Membership and Support Services
The Network has partnered with Faculties, Schools, Units and Departments in the university as well as external organisations to deliver on programs that promote good relations and benefits for all within and outside the university. The Belfast School of Art is one of the Schools un the university to be formally recognised as an ally of the BAME+ Network. Other include the School of Nursing and Paramedic Science and UUSU. The Network has also developed a mentorship program that connects student from BAME backgrounds with faculty and industry professional, This imitative does not only aid in professional development but also helps to enhance the academic experience of our students.
Collaborations and Partnerships
The Network has partnered with local organisations, charities, and community groups to promote ethnic diversity beyond the university environment. Some of our partners include ANM, BCOS, DYNI, MRANI, NWMF and more. Collaborations, have widened the reach of the Networks initiatives and engaged with broader local issues.
Awareness and Education
The Network has prioritised education and engagement in issues related to race, ethnicity and social justice. initiatives like the "Network Cafe", featuring staff and students including prominent speakers from various background, have raised awareness and provided conversations about the challenges faced by BAME individuals in society today.
The University’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
James also acknowledged the significant progress the university has made as a result of the BAME+ Network’s efforts and initiatives, including:
Cultural Celebrations
Ulster University has embraces cultural diversity through events like international day, specific country independence celebrations (Ugandan - 12th October) and Black History Month. Activities include exhibitions, performances and talks that highlight the contributions of different ethnic communities to society and culture.
Enhanced Curriculum
Curriculum reviews and introduction of modules focusing on ethnicity, culture and social justice reflect the institutional commitment to incorporate diver perspectives into the university's academic offerings. The changes have been spearheaded, in part, by feedback and input from the BAME+ Network.
Research Initiatives
Faculty members associated with the BAME+ Network have been involved in research projects that explore issues of race and identity, contributing to academic discourse while advocating for policy changes that address inequalities in society. In a module in the School of Engineering there have been several resratch projects in entreprenurship and innovating engineering that involved practices in diverse disciplines and cultures outside of the UK and Europe. This is seen as positive as they serve to address some of the 17 SDGs of the UN.
Recognition and Awards
Ulster University has been recongised for its commitment to diversity and inclusion through various awards and accreditation, which acknowledge the initiatives led by the BAME+ Network and the overall positive impact in the university environment. Staff and Students of BAME descent are being recongised in different places and for various achievements both in their respective professions as well as in various communities.
A Future of Continued Collaboration
In his closing remarks, James expressed his pride in the Belfast School of Art for its ability to stand the test of time, demonstrating that art, along with the networks and collaborations it fosters, is essential for sustained development and progress. He emphasied the importance of continued work together, with the BAME+ Network looking forward to further collaboration with the School to ensure a more inclusive and diverse environment for future generations.
The partnership between the BAME+ Network and the Belfast School of Art reflects the shared commitment to creating a space where all students, regardless of their background, feel valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. With continued dedication to allyship and inclusivity, the Network and the university are paving the way for a more equitable and vibrant academic community.