Universities of Sanctuary represent a national network of university students and staff working to make Higher Education institutions places of safety, solidarity and empowerment for people seeking sanctuary.
Royal Holloway, University of London has been recognised as a University of Sanctuary.
Royal Holloway, University of London has been recognised as a University of Sanctuary: a testament to consistent, collaborative and innovative work by colleagues and students to welcome and support those seeking sanctuary.
This formal acknowledgement, from Universities of Sanctuary, is the culmination of significant work over time to extend a safe haven to displaced students and academics as well as supporting local refugee communities and support organisations through collaborative projects and student volunteering.
Universities of Sanctuary particularly commended Royal Holloway for the range and depth of research and learning activity related to migration being undertaken, the place of sanctuary work in its civic and community initiatives, and the engagement of students in enabling and extending this work in collaboration with colleagues.
Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Julie Sanders said:
“We are so proud that the brilliant work and dedication of our community to offering the warmest possible welcome to those seeking sanctuary here has been recognised by Universities of Sanctuary. We are absolutely committed to opening up the transformative opportunities of higher education to all, and this shows how much we can achieve by working together across Royal Holloway and with our wider communities. I very much look forward to extending this work over time.”
Kehinde Ojo, Royal Holloway’s first Sanctuary scholarship recipient and now an Honorary Fellow of the University, said:
"I am thrilled that Royal Holloway has been recognised as a University of Sanctuary. This honour reflects the University’s deep commitment to welcoming refugees and asylum seekers, and to providing student-centred support that creates lasting, positive impact.
“Since launching its first Sanctuary Scholarship, Royal Holloway has consistently listened to and learned from its students, ensuring their experiences shape and improve the support offered. More than just a place to study, it is a community full of care and dedication, that is genuinely invested in each student’s journey.”
Universities of Sanctuary is an initiative to recognise and celebrate the good practice of universities welcoming people seeking sanctuary through facilitated access to Higher Education, supporting local refugee communities, and taking an active role in learning about the issues and obstacles faced by this group in pursuing HE.
Developing our work as a University of Sanctuary directly aligns with our strategic vision as a University of Social Purpose, and our ambition to be civic-minded and globally engaged. It also continues our historic tradition of breaking down barriers to higher education to drive social change.
More information on our role as a University of Sanctuary is available here.
