The University of Southampton’s India Centre has celebrated its fifth anniversary with a high-profile event to share the inspiring outcomes of a major research project.
This is the first time the personal stories of 10 highly influential South Asians have been recorded and archived, with the Pioneers project charting how each of them has significantly shaped modern Britain, ensuring that their legacies are not forgotten.
The culmination of the first phase of this research project – along with the fifth anniversary of the university’s India Centre for Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development – was celebrated at a colourful event at the Turner Sims concert hall on Wednesday 10 July.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Mark E. Smith said: “The University of Southampton has a long and much valued relationship with India. This research project will play an important role in giving the historical context, showing how these pioneers have influenced people and shaped Britain. This is a wonderful way to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the India Centre, which has grown so significantly.”
Lord Patel of Bradford OBE, patron of the India Centre and newly appointed joint Chancellor at the university, said: “This project charts the many success stories of immigration and the changing face of Britain thanks to the contributions that the South Asian diaspora have and continue to make. It has been so inspiring to hear the pioneers’ personal stories, and it is important that we record and preserve them for the benefit of generations to come.”
Professor Sabu Padmadas, founding Executive Director of the India Centre, said: “We are humbly proud of the India Centre’s impactful journey and accomplishments over the past five years, particularly spearheading a timely and high-profile ‘living legacy’ project of national significance that captures the inspiring life histories and multicultural spirit of Great Britain.”
Read the full story, including information on the pioneers, on our Southampton in the News pages.