Students Eleanor Cookson, Gemma Rhodes, Ayaan Ahmed, Pavel Petruneac at the Battle of Ideas.
Students challenge experts at the Battle of Ideas
On 19-20th October, fifty University of Exeter students participated in the Battle of Ideas; 'two days of high-level, thought-provoking, public debate organised by the Institute of Ideas at the Barbican, London'.
The students, from the Exeter and Cornwall campuses, were given this great opportunity as part of the awards for the University of Exeter’s Grand Challenges programme. Students took their debating skills and knowledge of the big issues facing society gained from Grand Challenges to the Battle of Ideas to tackle everything from international relations to science and the environment. They joined over 1,000 participants from all over the UK to put their questions to an extensive panel of speakers which featured international experts from the world of academia, business and campaign awareness groups.
Students were encouraged to get involved and continue the Grand Challenges ethos of asking themselves “What impact will you make?”. The Battle of Ideas was a great venue for students to demonstrate their enthusiasm for the idea that we can all make a difference.
Tyler Elliott, second year Psychology student said: “I admire the speakers at the Battle of Ideas so much. They have absolutely outstanding charismatic skills; no wonder they're so successful… I feel so inspired to be more open about expressing my ideas.”
Callum Burroughs, second year History and Politics student summed up his feelings of the trip: “Battle of Ideas has been a really fascinating weekend. Definitely recommend it!”
You can find out more about the Battle of Ideas experience and the Grand Challenges 2014 programme at the Grand Challenges launch event: Monday 28th October, 2.30-4pm, Forum Alumni Auditorium (Streatham) /Chapel Lecture Theatre (Penryn).
Date: 23 October 2013
