The Sussex School for Progressive Futures (SSPF) is hosting an exciting programme of events focused on our three interdisciplinary transformational themes: Environmental Sustainability, Human Flourishing, and Digital and Data Futures.

From our launch series exploring these transformational themes, to events that aim to inspire the next generation, SSPF events bring together researchers, students, activists, and community partners to tackle the biggest challenges facing our planet and its people. Here's what's coming up this term:

SSPF Launch Series

Lord Peter Hain in conversation with the Vice-Chancellor

The first event in our series, focusing on human flourishing, took place on Wednesday 28 January at the Attenborough Centre. It featured a dialogue between Vice-Chancellor Professor Sasha Roseneil and former government minister, anti-apartheid activist, and Sussex alumnus Lord Peter Hain. The conversation explored ideas from his new book Liberation and Corruption: Why Freedom Movements Fail, examining why liberation and independence movements are often betrayed when their leaders come to power. A recording will be available soon.

From Despair to Action: Building Progressive Futures

 Attenborough Centre | Wednesday 18 February | 5.30pm

This event on environmental sustainability brings together Dr Caroline Lucas, Professor of Practice in Environmental Sustainability, Professor Peter Newell, and a panel of activists and thinkers for a roundtable discussion on the politics of hope and how we can build progressive futures together.

Book your free ticket now

Other events

Inspiring Progressive Futures Series

These free events bring current and prospective students to Sussex to hear about research that makes a real difference. Come along to the Sussex School for Progressive Futures space in the Library and hear how you can get involved in shaping progressive futures through your studies and beyond.

• Law in the Age of AI: Wednesday 11 February at 5pm
• Lessons from Women Entrepreneurs in Yemen: Thursday 19 February at 5pm

How Does Change Happen?

Teaching space | Wednesday 4 March | 3pm

Join Dr Caroline Lucas for an interactive session exploring how change happens - both within and outside institutions. Drawing on her experience as a parliamentarian in the UK and Brussels, Caroline will share insights alongside opportunities for group discussion. This session is open to all students interested in the practical politics of progressive change. We'll explore: what works, what doesn't, when, why, and for whom?

All students are welcome to attend these free events. If you have any questions, contact ProgressiveFutures@sussex.ac.uk.

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