Newport's university wants your help to choose name (From South Wales Argus)

Newport's university wants your help to choose name

7:10pm Thursday 25th October 2012 in News

NEWPORT’s university is calling on residents to help choose the name for a new university for South Wales.

Earlier this year, the University of Wales, Newport announced it would merge with the University of Glamorgan with the aim of establishing an institution that is well placed to meet the economic and social needs of South Wales.

The two universities have now appointed Cardiff-based company Beaufort Research to consult with organisations across the region in order to find a name that will reflect its mission as it develops.

They want a name which reflects the geographical spread of the new institution.

Professor Stephen Hagen, acting vice-chancellor of the University of Wales, Newport said: “All along, Newport’s position has been guided by ensuring that our work in Gwent over the last 170 years is further strengthened and our impact on local people and communities is enhanced.

“We are looking for something that reflects the historical strengths of the existing universities but will also be easy to recognise and help us to compete on a national and international level on behalf of Wales.

“Coming up with the right name is incredibly important and both universities are very keen that local people have their say on this. Over the next couple of weeks I hope that as many people as possible take the opportunity to help us with this process.”

Education minister Leighton Andrews put forward proposals for the merger of Glamorgan, Newport and Cardiff Metropolitan universities earlier this year because he said research showed the three could not survive on their own.

But Cardiff Metropolitan is against the move and a 12-week consultation on the matter has been extended.

You will be able to have your say on the new name at the university website newport.ac.uk in coming weeks.