105. City University of London Degree Congregation, Barbican Hall, London, 23 January 2024

 


A number of Livery Company Masters were invited to the Barbican Hall for the Graduation ceremony at which the Rt Hon The Lord Mayor Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli was installed as Rector of City University of London.

We assembled in the Garden Room, which true to its name is attached to a garden in the heart of the Barbican centre.  The Garden is totally enclosed and while it was raining outside there was a short tropical rainfall inside.

It was fascinating catching up with university academics and Livery Masters.  Before and over lunch I had a long discussion with Professor Sir Anthony Finkelstein, President of City, about student numbers, managing courses and the profile and background and aspirations of their students.  We were concerned about the numbers taking engineering and other technical and science degrees, especially UK-based students.  Talking with the Master Constructor we debated the challenges facing the construction industry, including the changes to heating and insulation of buildings.  The skill set required is changing significantly.  I also had the pleasure of talking with the President of the Student Union who described the challenges that students are facing today, especially around the cost of living and debt.

Michael Mainelli thanked me on behalf of the Water Conservators for organising the very successful Coffee Colloquy in the Mansion House on the UN Sustainable Development Goal 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation.

After lunch we attended the Graduation ceremony itself.  The congregation was addressed by the President and the Rector who gave very inspiring and encouraging speeches.  It was an impressive turn out and the support for the graduates was very visible and audible.

I was very interested to hear and read about the Bayes Business School and the courses they run.  In addition to the more traditional management and business leadership, they deliver separate courses in medical leadership, energy, trade and finance, and shipping, trade and finance.  I was particularly intrigued and encouraged by their courses for the charity sector including charity accounting and fund raising, grant-making, philanthropy and social investment.  From our work with our Trust, these are increasingly important and complex areas. 

My thanks to the City University of London for a most enjoyable and fascinating day.


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