Engagement and impact

Working together to tackle the world’s biggest challenges in healthcare, environment, technology, social justice and human rights

Group of people marching for human rights
Global engagement, the globe with a pin marked on it.

How We Engage

The School of Global Affairs works with a wide range of external partners to maximise the impact of our world-leading research on people, communities and policy.

Confucius Institute

The Confucius Institute at Lancaster is one of the largest in the UK. It is a regional and national leader in bridging China and Great Britain, a centre for immersion in Mandarin language, culture, research, teaching and collaboration. 

The Institute opened on 20th December 2011, a partnership between Lancaster University and South China University of Technology in Guangzhou. Based at our UK campus, in 2019 Lancaster’s Confucius Institute achieved “Confucius Institute of the Year” status.

Confucius Institute
Three students coming out the door of the Confucius Institute

Partnerships

We have a number of established research partners in the north of England, across the UK and around the world. Together with our partners, we work to help address global challenges in healthcare, environment, technology, social justice and human rights.

Our partners include:  

We also have many partnerships with smaller NGOs and local organisations in Europe, South and Central America and Africa, as well as connections with organisations in East Asia.  

Global connections, local communities

  • Light up Lancaster

    A family-friendly trail of discovery and enjoy the transformation of the city into a magical installation of light. Catch free performances dotted among secret squares and well-known buildings, and experience captivating light projections, amazing performances, music, dance, film and fireworks.

  • Campus in the city

    Campus in the city is an initiative by Lancaster University which aims at bringing local people, academics and students together through exciting, fun and educational activities for all ages.

  • Languages for All

    Pick up a new language or continue to progress! Short language courses for students, staff and the public – from beginners to advanced.

Visits, competitions and taster seminars

  • School Visits

    Would you like to arrange a school visit? Academics from our broad range of subjects can deliver lectures or workshops at your school or college.

  • Modern Languages in Schools Prize Competition

    Now in its tenth year, the Modern Languages in School Prize has gradually developed from essays, to also welcoming video entries.

  • Watch a Taster Seminar

    Would you like to learn more about languages and cultures? Then our digital taster sessions might be just the right thing for you!