THE Connect

Integrating social and emotional learning in higher education for a sustainable future

Social and emotional learning (SEL) refers to the development of students’ abilities to understand and manage emotions, build positive relationships, make responsible decisions and navigate complex social environments. While traditionally emphasised in primary and secondary education, SEL is increasingly recognised as critical in higher education. In this episode of the THE Connect podcast, host Ashton Wenborn speaks with Fajer Bin Rashed, assistant professor in the English Language Programme at the Australian University in Kuwait. Rashed’s work focuses on the value of integrating SEL into higher education to support student well-being, enhance collaboration and encourage ethical reasoning, competencies that are essential for addressing complex global challenges and contributing meaningfully to a sustainable and inclusive society. This episode is sponsored by the Australian University in Kuwait.

From classroom to clinic: teaching future veterinarians

The Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences at City University of Hong Kong focuses on shaping students to be compassionate about animal welfare and nurturing their development as emerging veterinary scientists In this episode of the THE Connect podcast, host Sreethu Sajeev speaks with Vanessa Barrs, dean of the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, and student Jalal Abdullah Ali Abdulrahim about the Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine programme at City University of Hong Kong. The episode explores the programme’s focus on practical clinical skills, research projects and real-world placements. This episode is sponsored by City University of Hong Kong.

How early-childhood programmes strengthen communities and restore trust after conflict

Led by researchers at Queen's University Belfast and Ulster University, the LINKS project evaluates and strengthens evidence-based early-childhood programmes in conflict-affected countries, developing culturally grounded models that connect quality early education with long-term social cohesion and peacebuilding outcomes. In this episode of the THE Connect podcast, host Ashton Wenborn speaks with Laura Dunne, reader at the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work at Queen’s University Belfast. They explore the global impact of the LINKS project and the next steps for research, policy and practice when integrating childhood development into peacebuilding efforts. This episode is sponsored by Queen’s University Belfast.

Advancing precision engineering through research collaboration and innovation

The Centre for Precision Technologies at the University of Huddersfield advances precision engineering through integrated research, doctoral training and close collaboration with industry partners. Through diverse funding streams and strategic innovation efforts, the centre delivers both fundamental research and real-world manufacturing impact while preparing for emerging technologies. In this episode of the THE Connect podcast, host Alistair Lawrence speaks with Liam Blunt, director of the Centre for Precision Technologies, and Andrew Longstaff, research director at the Centre for Precision Technologies at the University of Huddersfield This episode is sponsored by the University of Huddersfield.

Bringing learning to life with virtual and augmented teaching environments

Digital technologies give universities powerful ways to enhance how students learn, but the real challenge lies in using them effectively. Too often, new tools are introduced without input from those who will use them, leading to poor adoption. At Queen’s University Belfast, the Centre for Technological Innovation, Mental Health and Education collaborates with clinicians and educators to design immersive, practical learning experiences. In this episode of the THE Connect podcast, host Ashton Wenborn speaks with Paul Best, director of the Centre for Technological Innovation, Mental Health and Education, and Janine Stockdale, lead midwife for education at Queen’s University Belfast. This episode is sponsored by Queen’s University Belfast.