University launches social enterprise bid
The University of Northampton has launched a campaign to become the UK's "leading university for social enterprise".
It was initiated in the House of Lords and supported by social enterprise start-up business UnLtd, The Young Foundation, Northamptonshire County Council, and Universities UK at the start of Universities Week.
The university's strategy has three main strands: a new student offer; the integration of social enterprise into teaching and learning and research throughout the university; and a long-term strategic project with local authorities, businesses, the third sector, and individual citizens in Northamptonshire.
Professor Simon Denny, the university's social enterprise development director, said: "We are setting out on this journey for two reasons.
"Firstly, we strongly believe that we must provide an education that prepares our graduates for the new world of work, a world in which social enterprise is an increasingly important part. Secondly, because we are committed to playing an active part in the improvement of our local community."
Northampton aims to be the UK's top university for social enterprise by 2015.
