Ulster University and the Manchester United Foundation are teaming up in Northern Ireland to engage and inspire young people.
Pupils from local schools in Derry~Londonderry are taking part in “United… The Business”, a pilot enterprise programme delivered by the two Organisations.
It is the first time the initiative has been rolled out on the island of Ireland, indeed the first time beyond Greater Manchester and has already met with a huge positive response.
The collaboration will be explored in the first Sport for Business Sport for Social Good Report and Conference taking place on September 27th. (Details and how to book for this can be seen below).
The programme aims to inspire young people to engage more positively in education and increase their aspirations and skills so that they can achieve their full potential.
Ten local schools are involved in the pilot on Ulster University’s Magee campus.
Throughout the programme, dedicated staff deliver interactive programmes and personal development, providing a range of opportunities for local pupils.
In the final phase, the young people had the opportunity put some of their newly acquired skills to good use as they acted as Parade Ambassadors at the 2018 Foyle Cup at the Magee Campus and ball assistants and mascots at the Under 19s Manchester United versus Celtic match at the Supercup NI in Coleraine.
“We are delighted to partner with the Manchester United Foundation on this pilot project to inspire and support local young people to achieve their full potential,” said Dr Nigel Dobson, Head of Sports Services, Ulster University.
“With Ulster University’s strong reputation for sporting excellence and community engagement through sport, the Manchester United Foundation is the perfect partner.”
“As Northern Ireland’s civic university, Ulster University plays a pivotal role in the local community.”
“Our campuses are a shared space for education, community and sporting activities that bring communities together. Here at Magee we run a range of school partnerships and community engagement programmes to encourage local young people to develop their skills and realise their ambitions.”
“Working with Ulster University on the ‘United… the Business’ programme has allowed Manchester United Foundation to reach into the Foyle learning community and engage young people using the world’s most recognised sports brand,” added Manchester United Foundation CEO John Shiels.
“It’s a fantastic opportunity to be working hand in hand with the University to create positive experiences and life changing opportunities for young fans across the Derry~Londonderry area.”
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Image Credit: Ulster University
