Transcript
Hello, I’m Professor Shitij Kapur, Vice-Chancellor and President of King’s College London, and I'm delighted to welcome you to the start of a new academic year.
Whether you’re joining us for the first time or returning to continue your journey, welcome to King’s and welcome to London.
September at a University is like Spring. There is new energy, there is new life on our campuses as thousands of students from around the world come together – to learn together, to live together and to grow together. You are now part of that community.
For nearly 200 years, King’s has been a place where people have come not simply to gain a degree, but to ask difficult questions, to challenge conventional thinking and make a positive difference in the world. And in doing so one of greatest strengths of King’s is the diversity of our community. The opportunity to learn from to learn with those who have had different experiences, cultures and perspectives. The foundational purpose of any university is to create spaces where complex and controversial ideas can be debated, and where members of our community can express lawful beliefs without fear of harassment.
This is not always easy, and you won't always hear things you agree with or like. When you encounter those differences, I hope you'll approach them with curiosity, by listening generously, speaking with care, and using social media thoughtfully. That’s why we ask all our students and staff to commit to and uphold our Community Charter.
In signing this charter, you are making a commitment to one another to play an active role in creating the kind of community you expect to be part of - one where everyone feels welcome.
The second aspect that makes a King’s experience special is that your education will extend far beyond the classroom. Through KCLSU, through King’s Edge, through our over three hundred student societies, sport, volunteering and the many experiences that will help you discover new interests, develop lifelong friendships and grow in ways you may not yet imagine. And then of course you are in the heart of London, one of the world’s greatest cities. Having lived in four continents, I can tell you there is no place like London to explore food, life and culture beyond the walls of the University and I hope you will make special time to do so.
University life is exciting, but it can also be challenging at times. If you need support, whether academic, personal or practical, remember that help is always available. Reaching out is a strength, and we’re here to support you throughout your time at King’s.
So, welcome to King’s. Be ambitious, be kind to one another, embrace every opportunity, and enjoy your time at King’s. And if you see me walking by on Campus – stop by, say hello, I would love to learn about the journey that brought you here and how you are making the most of King’s.