Societal engagement
At Heriot-Watt University, we are committed to societal impact and social responsibility, tracing our roots from a night school for working people to a dynamic, enterprise-focused institution 200 years later. Our societal engagement ensures that our education and research benefits society.
With our communities, we can continue to make a significant difference, championing the transformative power of education and research for the betterment of society. From school children to thought leaders at Adam Smith’s Panmure House , we aim to make our research accessible to all.
Our newly launched Strategy 2035 underlines our commitment to delivering research with impact, in partnership with communities and the third-sector, industry and policymakers – to create positive change locally, nationally and globally.
Professor Nola Hewitt-Dundas, Principal and Vice Chancellor
Principal and Vice-Chancellor, Heriot-Watt University
Why societal engagement matters to us
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At Heriot-Watt University, we’re putting engagement and involvement into practice across our global campuses as well as in communities, schools, patient centres and cultural spaces. Find out more about our approach to PPIE, how you can be a citizen scientist, and the wide range of activities we take to local schools to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and creators. At Heriot-Watt University, we engage with our communities in 4 key ways:
Public Engagement with Research
We are actively engaging different publics with our research findings and in our research processes through communication, consultation and collaboration, to strengthen trust in research inquiry and interpretation, to enhance the relevance and impact of our research, and to develop an inclusive and engaged research culture.
Community Engagement
We strive to build long-term relationships and sustainable outcomes in our global local areas. It is enabled through our position as an anchor institution contributing to the local economy and local policy development. It is underpinned by our desire to be a ‘good neighbour', providing expertise and social support to local communities.
Patient and Public involvement
We ensure that patient and public involvement is embedded in our research, actively working in partnership with patients and members of the public to plan, manage, design and carry out research.
Schools Outreach
We develop programmes to inspire and engage the next generation of learners through a variety of dynamic schools’ outreach activities. Our programs aim to spark curiosity, promote STEM education, and provide students with hands-on learning experiences
Related information
Adam Smith’s Panmure House
Panmure House is a world-influencing centre for social and economic debate and research, convening in the name of Adam Smith to effect positive change and forge global, future-focussed networks.
Engaged Research Strategy
Our Strategy to inspire and collaborate with global and local communities to drive impactful socio-economic benefits through public engagement in research.