Press release
University unveils caring, sharing Festival of the Future
Published on 5 October 2023
How we respect ourselves, others and the world around us will be explored as part of a flagship event hosted by the University of Dundee.
The University’s annual Festival of the Future will be staged for the fifth time from next week, with each event exploring the central theme of “care”. From friendship and medicine to wellbeing and fitness, almost 50 events will take place across five days in venues throughout the city, with the theme a nod to the 75th anniversary of the National Health Service.
“As a society we are becoming increasingly aware of how important it is we look after ourselves, those around us, and our environment,” said Emma Preston, the festival’s organiser.
“Here at the University, we contribute research and teaching which impacts upon all of these aspects of care. Some of them are perhaps more obvious than others, with the work in our Schools of Medicine, Dentistry, Health Sciences and Life Sciences playing a central role in helping us live long and healthier lives.
“However, some may be less obvious, with our School of Science and Engineering assisting with vital work to make the construction industry more sustainable, while the Art at the Start initiative, pioneered by our Psychology department, advocates the role of art in early years development.
“This year’s Festival of the Future is a fun and inclusive way in which we can explore the many ways in which care impacts and influences our lives and celebrate how empathy can help create a better world for us all.”
This year’s Festival begins on Wednesday 11 October with highlights including a yoga session in the University’s tranquil Botanic Garden, wellbeing art sessions featuring plant pressing and jewellery making, as well as a “lunch club” event, where visitors can enjoy some nourishing soup as part of a discussion on healthcare.
Meanwhile, the University will also open the doors to its state-of-the-art Immersion Room at Ninewells Hospital, allowing the public to witness where medical students receive CPR training in high-intensity, simulated environments where 360-degree video footage is projected on the walls.
Showcasing collaborations between science, arts and culture, Festival of the Future runs until Sunday 15 October at venues across Dundee. A full programme of events is available on the University website.