Civic Engagement

Find out how we work to make a positive difference to our communities and discover how to get involved.

Working to make a difference

We are passionate about civic engagement, which means we work to make a positive difference to our communities.

This happens in many different ways, from sharing the impact of our research and academic expertise through to supporting our staff, students and alumni to engage with the local community.

We take a broad view of civic engagement and encourage everyone at Abertay to get involved where they can. Our Staff Volunteering Scheme gives every colleague a day off each year to help local organisations achieve their goals.

Through student placements, joint projects, public outreach and community collaborations, we are able to make a real difference across Dundee and the Tay Cities Region more widely.

Why do we engage?

Our civic activity seeks to create impact across the areas below. This wide-ranging approach encourages the Abertay community to think about civic engagement in all that they do.

  • Social impact

  • Environment, climate and biodiversity

  • Health and wellbeing

  • Cultural contribution

  • Economic impact

  • Estates, facilities and placemaking

  • Institutional strategy and leadership

 

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About our Civic Engagement Strategy

Our Civic Engagement Strategy sets out our ambitions for supporting the region and how this important work links back to the Strategy 2025-30 as a fundamental element of what it means to be involved in the Abertay community. Through to  2030 and beyond we commit to:

  • Support community priorities through our expertise, facilities and people

  • Strengthen our relationships with key regional partners

  • Communicate with our communities and share our impact

 

Staff Volunteering

Staff can to take one day (or two half days) off each year to support an organisation of their choice. This is booked just like annual leave, and colleagues are able to coordinate time with others so they can work together.

Not sure where to start? Check out the Dundee Volunteer & Voluntary Action website for some inspiration.

For more information on how to book your day, visit the Staff Volunteering Scheme intranet page.

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