The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, welcomed a delegation of PhD students from a special London College community to the Guildhall on Friday for a special reception.
It’s the first time that students from Goodenough College have visited the city as part of a wider cultural enrichment programme. Goodenough College is an educational charity providing award winning postgraduate student accommodation in the heart of London’s university district.
The College aims to provide a supportive community for over 700 international postgraduate and their families from over 80 different nations. It benefits students through a programme of intellectual, cultural and social activities that gives students access to an international network and nurtures a global outlook.
12 students arrived in the city as part of a trip aimed promoting their understanding of N. Ireland, and in particular Derry, including its history and culture. While they are here the group are staying at St Columb’s Park House and visiting a number of local sites.
Welcoming the group to the City, Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, said: “I am always delighted to welcome young people to Derry and to share some of our wonderful heritage and culture.
“We have a strong connection with the City of London in terms of promoting skills and education, and this was another opportunity to discuss our shared interests and the many benefits of living, learning and working here.
“The students really enjoyed their visit to the Guildhall, where they had the chance to ask questions about local politics, peace-building and how Derry has been positively transformed over the years.
“They were also impressed to learn more about the city’s development as a leading hub for research and innovation excellence particularly in the areas of AI, data, health, and industry 4.0 technologies.”
Travelling with the students are the Dean of the Goodenough College, Alan McCormack originally from N. Ireland, who is also chaplain to the Lord Mayor City of London and Catherine McGuinness (fellow of Goodenough College and former Policy Chair, City of London) and her husband.
