Kingston University
Collaborative Outreach for Equitable and Sustainable Futures
Finalist, Benefitting Society
About
The RISE UP (Reimagine Inclusion, Sustainability and Equity in University Practices) programme brings staff and student consultants together to reflect on teaching and rethink how courses can better embed inclusion and sustainability. At its core, it aims to make learning more engaging, representative and accessible, while giving students a real voice in shaping their educational experience. Through strands such as student consultancy, sustainability, partnerships, evaluation, and training, RISE UP supports students to develop key skills in areas like equality and inclusion, curriculum design, communication, cultural awareness, and critical thinking. Over the past five years, this work has reached over 7,000 students across 65 projects, contributing to more inclusive learning environments. Students’ consultants also supported courses to address at least two SDGs through curriculum design workshops and validation panels. A defining feature of RISE UP is the central role students play, not just as contributors, but as co-creators and leaders of change. This is clearly reflected in recent work extending beyond the university into the local community.
Top 3 learnings
- We learned that hands-on, practical activities are key to engagement.
- We saw that placing RISE UP students at the centre improved engagement and strengthened their confidence and skills.
- We learned that giving staff space to collaborate with students fosters belonging, recognition, and pride.
What it would mean to win
Winning this prestigious award demonstrates how our commitment to sustainability is empowering staff and students to act as change agents and in partnership with the wider community, contributing to a more sustainable future.
SDG
| 2026 | |
| Benefitting Society | |
| Finalist, UK and Ireland |
More from the 2026 awards
Charles Sturt University
Restoring Nature, Inspiring Futures: 20+ Years of Biodiversity Leadership
Read More
Finalist, Nature Positive
Green Gown Award Regions
Australasia
