“We are here to listen, learn and serve” – Dr Vijay Sharma on building a truly civic university 

At the heart of the University of Leicester’s civic mission is Dr Vijay Sharma, our Pro-Chancellor for Community Engagement – a role that’s as visionary as it is vital. Her leadership is helping the University deepen its roots in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland, ensuring that our work reflects and responds to the communities we serve.

What does your role as Pro-Chancellor for Community Engagement mean to you?

I’ve always believed that institutions like universities should be woven into the fabric of their communities. We are not ivory towers – we’re neighbours, partners, and collaborators. We are not here to operate in isolation – we are here to listen, learn, and serve. Leicester is my home, and this role allows me to help the University become even more rooted in the lives of the people who live here, have relevance to their lives and seek to add value and build relationships with the University.

Your background spans media, advocacy, and governance. How has that shaped your approach?

My journey began with amplifying underrepresented voices - through founding the BBC Asian Network. I oversaw the transformation of a local (few hours a week) BBC radio service into a national digital radio station sitting alongside other BBC digital services . The transition involved moving away from a service catering for immigrants to reflecting the hopes and aspirations of a settled Asian diaspora in the UK. That experience taught me the power of storytelling and inclusion. Working in local governance and the voluntary sector also helped me understand how policy and community action intersect. All of it has prepared me to build bridges between academia and everyday life.

What are your key responsibilities in this role?

I focus on nurturing partnerships with community organisations, supporting grassroots initiatives and ensuring our engagement aligns with local priorities. I also champion inclusivity - making sure we reach and involve groups who have historically been left out of these conversations.

Can you share some examples of engagement in action at the University?

Absolutely. Our law clinics are providing free legal advice to local residents and our health outreach programmes are making a real difference to community wellbeing. We collaborate with cultural organisations to celebrate Leicester’s rich and diverse heritage. Our students are actively involved too - mentoring in schools and volunteering in civic projects.

We are also building meaningful connections with the African and Caribbean diaspora, linking them with the School of Business and supporting initiatives that honour the contributions of the Windrush generation through partnerships with our Heritage Hub. In collaboration with the Policy Institute, we are  working alongside frontline organisations that support victims of domestic violence.  These aren’t side projects – they are central to who we are.  

What impact do you hope this work will have?

When a university steps into its community, the benefits are mutual. Communities gain access to resources and expertise, and the University becomes more grounded and relevant. Students and staff get real-world experience, and trust grows. That’s how we build a truly civic institution.

Looking ahead, what’s your vision for the future?

I want our engagement work to be more visible, more collaborative, and more embedded in everything we do. My hope is that Leicester becomes a national model - not by accident, but by design. A university that is of its place, for its people, and shaped by its community.