External engagement

As outlined in the University’s Strategic Plan 2012-2016, we work to develop, and derive benefits from, local and international strategic partnerships and collaborations with other institutions, the commercial sector, and governmental and civil society organisations. We work collaboratively on fair trade with a range of organisations and initiatives in Scotland.

Scottish Fair Trade Forum and Scotland’s Fair Trade Nation campaign

The Scottish Fair Trade Forum (SFTF) has been campaigning since 2007 to make Scotland one of the first countries in the world to achieve Fair Trade Nation status - a status achieved in February 2013. The University of Edinburgh supports the SFTF, and University representatives attend meetings of the Cross-Party Group on Fair Trade at Holyrood.

Edinburgh Fair Trade City Group

University of Edinburgh Fair Trade Steering Group representatives attend Fair Trade City Group meetings at City Chambers, Edinburgh, and are key members of the Education sub-group.

Collaborations with other educational institutions in Edinburgh

The University of Edinburgh is forging links with schools, colleges, and other universities in Edinburgh.

For 2013, we have been awarded a small grant by the Fairtrade Foundation for a fair trade collaboration with Edinburgh College. The collaboration will help the college gain Fairtrade status, and raise the profile of fair trade at both institutions through joint events.