Looking Back: SSEES Top Moments of 2023

SSEES Students Selected as Young European Ambassadors

Five SSEES students earned the prestigious title of Young European Ambassadors (YEAs) as part of the EU Neighbours East initiative. A huge congratulations to our students! Read more.

‘Ukraine's Victory in Russia's War: The Role of the United Kingdom’ Panel Discussion

In January, a panel discussion co-organised by Dr Olexandra Dovzhyk, UCL SSEES and the Ukrainian Institute London explored the UK’s role in ensuring Ukraine’s victory following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Learn more.

Welcoming the First Bracewell Scholar

In February, SSEES proudly welcomed the inaugural Bracewell Travelling Scholar, Martyna Miernecka, who had the opportunity to meet with the benefactor of the scheme, Professor Wendy Bracewell. Read more.

Dr Ben Noble and SSEES Leading UCL Policy Commission on Area Studies

Dr Ben Noble, the academic co-lead, shared insights into the UCL policy commission on area studies: "I’m delighted that UCL Public Policy has funded this project. The ongoing input provided by UCL experts to the policy community in response to developments like Russia’s war on Ukraine show the vital role that our expertise can play in Whitehall and beyond – and this project will help enhance UCL’s work in this domain.” Read more.

‘Baltic Symposium 2023’

In March, we hosted the 'Baltic Symposium 2023: How the Baltics are Shaping Europe.' Against the backdrop of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, our panelists engaged in a comprehensive discussion addressing crucial topics. Learn more.

SSEES Language Teachers Secure Funding for Access Project: Proficiency in East European Languages

Earlier this year, Language teachers at SSEES, led by Ramona Gonczol and Yordanka Velkova, were awarded UCL Access funding to engage in outreach with heritage speakers of East European Languages. Read more.

‘Decolonising Language Studies Symposium’

In the month of May, UCL SSEES orchestrated a compelling symposium to discuss current calls about decolonising the curriculum by fostering a transdisciplinary dialogue across linguistics, anthropology, literature, and cultural studies as well as the critical study of discourse, memory, and multilingualism. Learn more.

SSEES integrated with UCL Arts & Humanities

SSEES officially merged with UCL Arts & Humanities in September 2023. Former School Director Prof Diane P. Koenker expressed, "It marks a new chapter in the storied history of SSEES, and it will provide the benefits of belonging to a welcoming Faculty within UCL while protecting our unique identity as a centre of language-based and interdisciplinary area studies.” Read more.

Prof Richard Mole Appointed as Director of SSEES

September saw the appointment of Professor Richard Mole as the new Director of SSEES. Richard expressed: "I am absolutely delighted to have been selected to be the next Director of SSEES. The need for in-depth Area Studies expertise is as acute as ever and I am excited to work with all my colleagues to enhance and showcase the amazing teaching and research we do at the School." Read more.

SSEES Graduation 2023

On Thursday 7th September, 200 excited graduates gathered in the Royal Festival Hall ready to obtain their degree certificates at the SSEES graduation, a multinational event. This special occasion stood as a testament to the hard work and dedication of our outstanding students and staff. Read more.

Thank you for reading our top 10 moments of 2023. Wishing our readers a year ahead filled with contentment and continued success.

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