Queen’s University’s STEAM Scheme and My Neighbourhood initiatives are both rooted in partnerships between local communities and academia.  

My Neighbourhood is a five-day programme, delivered in conjunction with UN Habitat Urban Lab, aimed at addressing the long-standing issue of the presence of ‘peace walls’ in Belfast that continue to separate communities and impede citywide connectivity and cohesion. 

The STEAM Scheme is designed to inspire the next generation of young people from the Market community of inner-south Belfast by exposing them to a broad range of educational experiences across the worlds of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics.  

Speaking as both schemes draw to a close, Dr Ryan Feeney, Vice-President for Governance, External Affairs and Registrar said: 

“Universities have a vital role to play in the place and space which they operate. These summer schemes are excellent examples of how collaboration between universities and communities can lead to transformative outcomes. 

“The STEAM Scheme demonstrates Queen’s commitment to investing in the future of our young people, and My Neighbourhood is a strong example of our civic commitment to address critical issues that affect the entire city.  

“Both initiatives are about more than just educational enrichment or city planning; they are about building stronger, more connected communities.” 

My Neighbourhood will see youth groups from Grosvenor Community Centre and South City Resource come together to understand local perceptions of their space and collaborate on ideas for the regeneration and re-imagining of peace wall interfaces. 

One participant said, "I think it's important for them (Queen’s) to come in here because it's usually adults talking about this stuff… In the future, we're going to be the ones living here… kids should have a voice as well” 

The young people will present their ideas directly to local stakeholder groups, including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, the Department for Justice Interface Programme, and those with roles in city planning, infrastructure and peacebuilding. 

The project will draw on international research and examples, such as Barcelona’s superblocks which carve out green spaces and reduce noise and carbon pollution, to explore how the application of creative city planning can play a role in promoting reconciliation across Belfast. 

The STEAM Scheme is co-designed by Queen's and the Market Development Association and culminates in a graduation ceremony on Friday 23 August. 

It is a key component of the ongoing partnership with the Market Development Association under Queen’s Communities and Place (QCAP). 

Over the week, young people will explore the wonders of space by taking a virtual journey through the solar system at Armagh Planetarium, discover the basics of computer programming by building simple games and apps at Queen’s Computer Science building, investigate the state-of-the-art simulation facilities at the School of Nursing and Midwifery, and participate in a workshop on game design and development. 

By fostering collaboration between academic institutions and local organisations, both the STEAM Scheme and My Neighbourhood underscore the importance of informed, community-driven initiatives with potential for lasting impact in the locality and beyond. 

Media

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