Swansea University has been awarded University of Sanctuary status, recognizing its efforts to support people fleeing conflict and persecution. The award highlights several initiatives, including the University's Sanctuary Scholarships and a partnership with Petro Mohyla Black Sea National University in Ukraine, which enabled 53 Ukrainian students to participate in study visits at Swansea.
The Sanctuary Scholarships, funded by Swansea University's alumni and supporters, are designed to remove financial barriers for those escaping conflict, allowing them to continue their education in a safe environment. These scholarships cover tuition and living costs for eligible postgraduate taught master’s programmes.
Universities of Sanctuary is a national network that encourages higher education institutions to become places of safety and empowerment for those seeking sanctuary. Swansea became the UK's second official City of Sanctuary in 2010. Since then, various local organizations have committed to fostering inclusivity.
To receive the University of Sanctuary award, Swansea's work was evaluated by an expert panel from Universities of Sanctuary who visited the campus and met with staff and students seeking sanctuary.
Swansea University's initiatives include hosting Ukrainian students from Mykolaiv—a city affected by ongoing conflict since Russia’s invasion in 2022—supporting academic staff at risk in their home countries, providing dedicated staff for sanctuary scholars, supporting local charities such as Discovery (the student-led charity assisting asylum seekers), and organizing events like the Sanctuary Visit Day for people with lived experience of forced migration.
A recipient of the Sanctuary Scholarship, Ana, who completed an MA in Translation and Interpreting at Swansea said: "The Sanctuary Scholarship is a blessing that has made me feel truly welcomed by this country and has changed the lives of myself, my husband and my two young children forever. After graduation, I am looking forward to using the skills I have learnt at Swansea University to help others in the community. I am also immensely grateful for the kindness and support I have received during my studies here."
Academic research at Swansea contributes to understanding forced displacement and migration through projects led by faculty members across geography, Welsh studies, medicine, social work, as well as PhD research on related topics.
Reflecting on receiving University of Sanctuary status, Professor Paul Boyle, Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University said: “It is an honour for Swansea University to receive University of Sanctuary status. This recognition reflects the compassion and commitment of our staff, students and alumni in creating a truly welcoming and supportive environment for those who have faced the most challenging circumstances across the world.
“At a time when so many are forced to flee their homes due to conflict and persecution, universities have a vital role to play, and I am proud that Swansea is now part of a growing network of institutions who are working together to offer safety, opportunity and hope, in addition to continued access to education. This award is a testament to the values we share across our University community and within our region, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed to this important work.
“We are especially grateful for the generous donations from our fantastic graduates and supporters which help make these transformative scholarships and opportunities possible.”