Two Solent University researchers have been invited to participate in an event held by UK Parliament’s Knowledge Exchange Unit, BAME Researchers and the UK Parliament.
The event, for researchers from BAME backgrounds, will see attendees share their lived experience of inequality and barriers to working with Parliament, celebrate the impact of BAME researchers at Parliament, explore how to engage with Parliament as a researcher, and contribute ideas to strengthen Parliament’s work with BAME researchers.
Dr Zahida Shah, Course Leader in the School of Business Law and Communications, and Research Fellow, Dr Komali Kantamaneni have confirmed their places at the event, which takes place on March 12, 2020 at the Houses of Parliament.
“I have spent 20 years undertaking research, advocating on behalf of and representing BAME communities for policy and development purposes,” explains Dr Shah. “So being able to take part in such a process is fantastic, as it allows BAME researchers a platform to discuss the barriers and, sometimes, the inequalities we face.
“I welcome the opportunity to participate in such debates and am delighted to have access to policy makers and the government to discuss these barriers and inequalities and how they can be removed.
“I hope to gain valuable insights into the Government’s support for researchers in general, and in particular specific support for developing BAME researchers. I very much hope to establish how Parliament intends to do this and support institutions BAME researchers work within. I hope to gain insights into the future of research investment in the current and new political and economic environment in the UK.”
“I’m very feel proud and honoured to represent Solent University at this prestigious event,” adds Dr Kantamaneni. “After being published in several impactful journal articles within the field of coastal vulnerability, I have become a specialist within this area and really look forward to sharing my research interests and meeting new BAME researchers.”
