This month marks an exciting new chapter for The University of Manchester, as we unveil our bold “Manchester 2035” strategy – an ambitious vision to become a truly great civic university for the 21st century. 

In addition to being shaped by staff, students and alumni this strategy has been shaped by the voices of our city. Over 140 people – councillors, council officers, voluntary sector leaders, residents, FE colleges, and members of the Greater Manchester Civic University Board, all came together in workshops and online sessions. Their insights, experiences, and honest feedback have helped build the new strategy. 

These listening exercises weren’t just a box-ticking exercise. They were a genuine invitation to our communities: tell us how we can be better partners, how we can strengthen local ties, and how we can make a real difference. The feedback was clear – we need to be more accessible, improve our processes, and communicate in ways that include everyone. There was praise for initiatives like Manchester Museum and the Whitworth Art Gallery, but also a call for us to do more, especially in empowering local voices and building authentic partnerships. 

Those who helped shape the first phase of the strategy were invited back to review progress in our ‘ideas lab’ and to join us for this month’s launch. Their continued involvement helps the strategy remains rooted in the needs and aspirations of Greater Manchester. 

• If you work with our local communities, the VCSE sector or a civic partner we want to connect with you. Let’s work together to turn ideas into action. Please complete the online form to get involved.