A structured debate brought students, academics and industry professionals together to examine readiness for professional practice. Audience feedback became recommendations presented to institutional partners, including clearer communication and PPE signposting. Explore the project’s planning, delivery, outputs and connection to subsequent site visits.
Participants at the Northumbria Construct Oxford-Style Debate.
Project · Newcastle Hub
A structured debate that turned discussion into practical
recommendations and new opportunities.
Debate motion
“Universities Are Failing to Prepare Graduates for Industry.”
Project overview
The project brought together participants, academics and industry
professionals to examine the responsibilities of universities,
individuals, employers and professional institutions in preparing
graduates for professional practice.
Audience feedback and recommendations were analysed and compiled
into a formal report presented to stakeholders within
Northumbria University Experiential Learning Team
and the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
Recommendations included clearer communication around
opportunities and improved signposting of Personal Protective
Equipment availability for construction site visits. These
actions contributed to increased participation in
subsequent CIOB site visits.
Objectives
Meaningful dialogue
Create collaboration, evaluate industry readiness and produce
evidence-based recommendations.
Activities
Structured engagement
Plan the debate, collect stakeholder feedback and present
findings to institutional partners.
Outcomes
Measurable benefits
Improved communication, better PPE signposting and increased
participation in CIOB site visits.
A first-time speaker takes the floorAn opposition speaker presents his caseThe event was hosted by the President of Northumbria University Student Union Isaac Etonam Professional networking after the debate
