Webinar: Addressing the UK skills gap: The University of Leeds, BSc in Textile Innovation
Discover how industry can engage with the new Leeds BSc to support student placements, scholarships and future textile talent.
Join UK Fashion & Textile Association (UKFT) and the University of Leeds for an online information session exploring the new BSc in Textile Innovation & Sustainability and how it is helping to develop the next generation of commercially aware textile professionals. Developed in consultation with UKFT and the Textile Livery Group, the course has been designed to address the UK’s growing need for graduates with expertise in textile technology, manufacturing, sustainability and product innovation.
This one-hour webinar will introduce the programme, discuss opportunities for industry collaboration and explain how businesses can support and benefit from student placements, scholarships and future engagement with the course. A live Q&A session will give attendees the opportunity to put questions directly to the academic team.
The webinar will cover
- An overview of the University of Leeds BSc in Textile Innovation & Sustainability
- Why the UK textile and fashion industry needs commercially aware textile technology graduates
- How the course has been shaped through collaboration with industry partners
- Student recruitment and plans for developing the future talent pipeline
- Opportunities for companies to offer placements and work-based learning experiences
- Scholarship opportunities and ways industry can support student success
- How businesses can engage with the programme to inform future developments
- Live questions and answers with the speakers
Speaker biographies
Professor Stephen Russell is Director of the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour (LITAC), Chair of Textile Materials & Technology and Professor within the School of Design at the University of Leeds. His work focuses on advancing textile materials, manufacturing technologies and innovation through research and industry collaboration. He leads initiatives that strengthen links between academia and business, supporting the development of skills and knowledge needed for the future of the UK textile sector.
Professor Muhammad Tausif is Interim Head of the School of Design at the University of Leeds and Professor of Sustainable Textile Manufacturing. A Chartered Textile Technologist (CText FTI) and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), his expertise spans sustainable textile manufacturing, innovation and education. His research and leadership support the development of environmentally responsible manufacturing practices and the preparation of graduates equipped for the evolving needs of industry.
The University of Leeds is one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities, recognised internationally for excellence in teaching, innovation and collaboration with industry. Through the Leeds Institute of Textiles and Colour and the School of Design, the University delivers world-class education and research across textile science, sustainable manufacturing, materials innovation and design. The BSc in Textile Innovation & Sustainability has been developed in partnership with industry stakeholders to equip graduates with the technical, commercial and sustainability skills required to support the future growth of the UK fashion and textile sector.
The webinar is accessible to all businesses and will be recorded and sent to those who registered.