Residents from across Hounslow recently came together at the University of West London (UWL) to celebrate the completion of two free micro-credential short courses designed to support lifelong learning. The celebration recognised learners who completed the Introduction to Business and Introduction to Podcasting courses, delivered by UWL at Feltham Library in partnership with the London Borough of Hounslow as part of the Future Hounslow Civic Agreement.
Celebrating achievement and lifelong learning
Held at UWL’s Ealing campus, the event brought together learners, their guests, course tutors and University colleagues to celebrate the commitment and enthusiasm shown throughout the programme. Participants were presented with Certificates of Participation before hearing reflections from learners and tutors about the impact of the courses.
Building opportunities through the Future Hounslow Civic Agreement
The initiative is part of the Future Hounslow Civic Agreement between UWL and the London Borough of Hounslow. This aims to strengthen opportunities for residents through education, skills development and community partnership and is representative of an emerging model for universities delivering community-based micro‑credential learning in partnership with local authorities. The project represents UWL’s commitment to creating opportunities for local communities by making learning more accessible and supporting residents to build confidence, develop new skills and explore further education and employment opportunities.
Sara Raybould, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience), who presented the certificates, said:
“I’ve been so excited to take this project forward because at the heart of everything we do here is the experience and difference an education makes. Through that experience we give our students real confidence and knowledge about themselves, as well as the knowledge about the subject itself. Learning and knowledge bring creativity, and with creativity comes real change to all our futures.”
Deepack Ramar, a learner from the Introduction to Business course, said:
“This course has had a real impact on my life. It has helped me to understand business fundamentals, improve my planning and relationship making and give me practical tools that I have used to build and grow my business.”
Dr Shafgat Abbas, Senior Lecturer in Business and Finance at UWL and Course Leader for Introduction to Business said:
“Over the past 14 weeks your demonstration of commitment, resilience and desire for learning has been really impressive. UWL is committed to supporting lifelong learning and opportunities for the local community and your success represents the first stepping stone for future learners.”
Ben Whiting, Lecturer in Audio Production and Podcasting at UWL and Course Leader for Introduction to Podcasting said:
“What you’ve achieved isn’t just about receiving a certificate, it’s about the dedication, perseverance and willingness to keep learning that got you here. Learning doesn’t stop here. Keep asking questions, keep exploring and keep building on what you’ve started.”
Councillor Madeeha Asim, Cabinet Member for Children and Young Futures at Hounslow Council commented:
“Education isn’t just for younger people in the borough and courses like this are a vital bridge for people who may have given up on gaining new skills or are looking for a way back in. Lifelong learning should be accessible for everyone and it’s particularly exciting to see this offer in the context of the wider Civil Agreement between the Council and UWL.”
