Skip to main content

Month: February 2018

Photo: Hana Jafar

Universities warned strike action could affect summer exams

Written by Nicole Wootton-Cane on . Posted in News.

University and College Union (UCU) strikes which are planned across the country could be extended to affect students’ summer exams and graduation ceremonies.

Sally Hunt, the UCU’s general secretary, has warned that strike action may be escalated if negotiations between the UCU and the employers’ representative Universities UK (UUK) do not reopen. The current industrial strikes are set to take place over the course of fourteen days across February and March. It is estimated that a total of 40,485 students at the University of Manchester will be affected by the strike action.

Speaking to The Mancunion, Hunt explained: “We deliberately announced these strike dates to give universities time to come back round the table with us and get this mess sorted out. They have refused to do so and want to impose their reforms on staff.

“Unsurprisingly staff are angry and significant disruption on campuses across the UK now looks inevitable.

“The key is how universities react to the action this week. We will be meeting on the 2nd of March to consider what wave two of the action may need to involve and nothing is off the table at this stage. We doubt any universities want a prolonged dispute that carries on towards exam season and would urge vice-chancellors to put pressure on Universities UK to get back round the table with us.”

The UCU is the main academic union in the UK, representing over 100,000 lecturers. Their dispute with UUK centres around proposed changes to academics’ pensions, which the UCU claim could see a typical lecturer almost £10,000 a year worse off in retirement than under the current pensions scheme.  Strike action was supported by an overwhelming majority of 88 per cent of members in a recent UCU ballot.

Whilst many students have expressed support for the strikes, there are also concerns over disruption to education. There has been strong support for petitions featured on Change.org and iPetitions calling for the University of Manchester to refund student fees, which have gained 5,100 and 679 signatures respectively.

Despite this pressure, last week the university refused to refund students as compensation for lost contact hours. A university spokesperson responded to the students’ refund requests by stating: “Since we charge a composite fee for our courses, we cannot reimburse for specific elements of missed teaching and assessment.”

In a letter to the university, third year English Literature student Lucy Kenningham conveyed her anger over the educational consequences of the strikes: “I’ll be examined on topics I have not been taught […] as well as the obvious upset of being deprived of the pleasure of attending some of my last seminars and lectures. I feel so let down by the university.”

Some students are finding themselves torn between sympathising with the academics and prioritising their education. First year English Literature student Amelia Mayall told The Mancunion: “Well I’m not totally against the strike action, I do understand and have empathy for the strikers. However, I have great concerns about how this will affect our studies and exams, as we will miss a big chunk of our (need I say) expensive lectures and seminars. We have seen pension reforms that have affected the civil service and NHS staff also, so they are definitely not being singled out.”

Others have blamed the university entirely, such as first year Physics student, Olivia Murray, who said: “Whilst I support the strike, I think it’s important that the university recognises the disruption they will cause to us.

“We’re under a lot of pressure to teach ourselves the work we missed, and we may be assessed on work we have not covered in our summer exams. I don’t think the university can continue to pretend the strikes won’t have an impact on our learning.”

Manchester Central MP Lucy Powell refused to deliver the annual Harry Street lecture at the University of Manchester because it clashed with the first day of the strikes. In a statement, she said, “I don’t cross picket lines,” and called on UUK to get back round the table with the union.

UCU regional official Martyn Moss said: “Nobody wants to take strike action, but staff feel they have no choice. These hard-line proposals would slash staff pensions and are simply uncalled for.” However, a spokesperson for UUK argued that “The changes proposed will make the scheme secure, and sustainable, safeguarding the future of universities.  University staff will still have a valuable pension scheme, with employer contributions of 18 per cent of salary, double the private sector average.”

The University of Manchester have been contacted for further comment.

Photo: University of Manchester

Manchester Museum appoints first female Director

Written by Sophie Boyd on . Posted in News.

Esme Ward is due to take up her position as director of the Manchester Museum on Monday 9 of April, succeeding Nick Merriman.

Manchester Museum is the largest university museum in the UK with 4.5 million artefacts and surpassed the half a million visitor mark for the first time in 2017.

Esme said: “I am thrilled to be appointed the new Director of Manchester Museum. The vision to use its collections to promote understanding between cultures and a sustainable world could not be more timely or relevant.”

Esme is currently the Head of Learning and Engagement at Manchester Museum and the Whitworth. She joined the Whitworth in 1998 as the Education Officer and then became Head of Learning and Engagement in 2010.

Esme also worked alongside Maria Balshaw during the major transformation of the Whitworth and saw it win Art Fund Museum of the Year 2015.

The new Director also has completed a Clore Cultural Leadership Fellowship which included a placement with the Heritage Lottery Fund.

As well as working in the museum, Esme is the strategic culture lead for Age Friendly Manchester at Manchester City Council and teaches at the University.

She says that her career has focused on social purpose and prioritising inclusive initiatives and available to more people; from young children to people living with dementia.

This will continue through her new role, as Esme said: “I am hugely excited to lead the Museum at this critical time, build upon its excellent work to date and realise its potential as the UK’s most inclusive, imaginative and caring museum.”

Some have argued that it seems fitting that a female has been promoted to this position considering 2018 is the 100 year anniversary of some women getting the right to vote in a UK general election for the first time.

Esme said: “Since the museum opened its doors in 1890, a host of talented, determined women have shaped and developed its work and collections (including Marie Stopes and Egyptologists Margaret Murray and Rosalie David).

“I am hugely proud to build upon their legacy. In 2018 of all years, and in Manchester of all places, it seems fitting that a female director has finally been appointed.

“The response to the announcement has been wonderful. In part, this acknowledges my commitment to inclusion and ambition that the museum reflects the communities it serves.

“But it is also a recognition of change (#glassceilingbroken) and a desire that more women play leading roles in shaping our culture and city.”

Professor James Thompson, the University of Manchester’s Vice President for Social Responsibility, said: “I am absolutely delighted that we have appointed the first woman director of Manchester Museum.

“Esme will bring vision and innovation to the Museum, continuing its excellent work with academics, students and its commitment to engagement with diverse local, national and international communities.

“The Museum is thriving with record visitor numbers, Esme is an ideal appointment for this exciting phase in the Museum’s development.”

Photo: She Bangs the Drums by the Contact Young Company

Preview: getting girls into science event

Written by Eleanor McLaughlin on . Posted in News, Science & Tech.

It’s not news that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) industries are still a man’s world – but how can the gender gap be closed and more women become the next leaders in STEM industries? On the 8th of March, International Women’s Day will be celebrated at Manchester’s Museum of Science and Industry by a conversational event discussing just that, accompanied by a panel of some of the most influential women in STEM today.

The event marks both International Women’s Day and British Science Week, and is a part of Wonder Woman 2018, the city-wide feminist festival commemorating the 100-year anniversary of the Representation of the People Act, which awarded some of the first women the right to vote.

Speakers include Dr Heather Williams, director of the grassroots organisation ScienceGrrl, Damon De Ionno, managing director of the innovative research agency Revealing Reality, and Dr Jessica Wade, final year PhD student at Imperial College London, member of the WISE Young Women’s Board, and the Women in Engineering Council.

Guests to the event can expect debates on why a gender gap in STEM industries still exists and how we can begin to solve it and encourage a new generation of women as leaders in STEM. There will also be an opportunity to pick the speakers’ brains through an audience Q&A.

Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon MBE, child prodigy and CEO of social enterprise Stemettes, will also be sending a virtual message to the event with a question for the panel.  At just 20 years of age, Dr Imafidon received a Master’s in Mathematics and Computer Science from the University of Oxford. She is renowned for her work inspiring many women around the world.

Also included in the Wonder Woman events series is the third annual Women in Media conference, which is being held at the People’s History Museum on the 3rd and 4th March. Elsewhere, a talk from science journalist, broadcaster, and author Angela Saini will be happening on the 5th of March in University Place. Saini will discuss her latest book, Inferior, and what it means for women at the University of Manchester.

Recipe: Melting Meatball One-Pot

Written by Samuel Pigott on . Posted in Food & Drink.

Ingredients

·         1 Diced onion

·         250g each of pork and beef mince

·         125g fresh breadcrumbs

·         1 tsp fennel seeds, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, pepper and paprika

·         2 tbsp each of chopped fresh parsley and coriander

·         4 cloves garlic finely diced

·         1 egg beaten

·         1 large glass red wine

·         2 onions sliced

·         3 fresh bay leaves

·         1 large bunch fresh thyme

·         2 tbsp tomato puree

·         1 tin chopped tomato

·         Salt and pepper

·         250g grated mozzarella and cheddar

Method

1.       Preheat an oven to 180C.

2.       Begin by making the meatballs mixing the mince, onion, breadcrumbs, dried and fresh herbs and half the garlic together in a bowl. Slowly add the egg and mix until the ingredients have come together. Avoid mixing any further than this as it will result in a tough meatball at the end.

3.       Once the mixture has come together, divide it out into balls and leave to chill in the fridge for at least one hour

4.       Once chilled, roll the meatballs in seasoned flour and then introduce to an ovenproof pan preheated over a medium heat with a tbsp of oil in. Brown the meatballs in the pan in batches, frying for approximately 5 minutes, making sure all sides are coloured.

5.       Next, begin the sauce in which the meatballs will sit. Using the pan you have cooked the meatballs in, bring the heat up high and then add the red wine. Make sure that you use this wine to scrape off any little bits that have stuck to the bottom of the pan. Boil the wine over this high heat until it has reduced in volume by approximately half and then take the heat right down.

6.       Add the onions, garlic, bay leaves and thyme into this pan, along with a knob of butter if you wish, and cook them for at least ten minutes on a low heat, until the onion is beginning to turn translucent

7.       Now add the tomato puree and cook for approximately three minutes in order to reduce the bitterness. Add the chopped tomatoes to this pan and bring the heat back up again until the mixture is boiling. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and allow to cook until the mixture has again reduced by half. At this point, season to taste.

8.       Add the meatballs back into the pan and then top with the grated cheese before placing the whole thing in the oven for 15 minutes, until the cheese is melted, and the meatballs are cooked through. Make sure you check the meatballs are cooked through as cooking times will vary slightly depending on size and they must be cooked as you are using pork mince as well.

9.       Serve with a simple salad and garlic bread, or with pasta for a fantastic evening meal.

Design disasters lead to H & M controversy

Written by Amy Nguyen on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

In a contemporary world focused on cultural appropriateness and racial sensitivity, one would probably not believe their very eyes to view the recent garment of controversy produced by high street retailer H & M.

In January, a printed hooded top was advertised on their website modelled by a young black child. The word imprinted on the material read “coolest monkey in the jungle”. With historically racist connotations resulting from comparisons of Africans to apes, this was probably not the best creative angle to take on child merchandise.

How did this slip through the net of brand and art directors? Rightfully so, a severe social media backlash ensued, popularised by #BoycottH&M and denounced by R n B artist The Weeknd, stating he would no longer be collaborating with the company on future campaigns.

Following these events, the company issued a public apology and hired a ‘Diversity Director’ in order to avoid future mishaps.

How sincere this apology truly was fell under scrutiny, as merely a fortnight later another hiccup occurred — this time out of concerns over their sensitivity to religious beliefs. In this instance, an entire range of socks were recalled following a pattern closely resembling Allah meaning ‘God’ in Arabic. It was quickly identified, and another social media storm occurred.

 


They issued the below statement regarding the blunder:

“At H&M we always aim to offer products that we believe our customers will appreciate, the print on this sock represents a Lego figurine, any other meaning is entirely coincidental and we apologise if this motif has offended anyone.”

To add to the cohort of blunders, prior to this the store removed a hoodie bearing the words “Dogfight in Random Alley” from its stores after animal rights organisation Peta complained that it sent a “dangerous” message.

At the close of only last month it was reported that shares of retail giant H & M were down more than a third over the last year, falling by a substantial 5.8%. Whilst there’s no concrete evidence that this is correlated with the controversies the retail giant has been involved with, the corporation may need to rethink its design approval process and revamp its overall strategy to sustain any type of edge in what is an increasingly saturated market.

 

Photo: 134295115@N03@Flickr

Talita Von Furstenberg unveiled as her Grandmother DVF’s new muse

Written by Talia Lee-Skudder on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

This season showcases the first collection since Jonathan Saunders departed as creative director of Diane Von Furstenberg and Nathan Jenden once again took over the role, having previously occupied it from 2001 to 2010. Before revealing the new collection, DVF announced through her Instagram page that her 18-year-old granddaughter would be her new muse.

Talita is now modelling the Fall 2018 collection, wearing the classic DVF prints and an updated version of the brand’s iconic wrap dress. Talita’s role as her grandmother’s new muse revitalizes the brand and makes it more current for the younger generation, showing that a wrap dress is not just for the elder women out there but can also be a super cool style for the millennials.

The seventies style geometric print jumpsuits are an example of clothing that can traverse generations. It can easily be worn dressed up with heels or worn casually and teamed with the hottest footwear of choice at the moment ― trainers.

By enlisting Talita as the face of the brand, the fashion house has successfully bridged the gap of two generations between working women and the millennials. Jenden has said that Talita, like her grandmother, embodies the spirit of the brand, and describes them both as ‘inspirational women across generations.’

It was also revealed that he and Talita are in talks for creating a TVF by DVF capsule collection, which, if it comes to fruition, will no doubt prove to be a major hit with millennials, especially if Talita is fronting the campaign.

Talita is now based in Washington where she is studying international relations at Georgetown. Speaking to Vogue, she said that whilst she is happy completing her studies, she definitely sees fashion in her future stating that design and styling really interest her. Her line TVF for DVF will able to be balanced alongside her University work.

When DVF made the announcement on her Instagram page she referred to Talita’s first experience in the fashion industry when she accompanied her grandmother and Jenden to the PITTI fair in Florence when she was just nine years old. With such a fabulous duo, it is inevitable that this new business venture will be a roaring success — it’s in their genes, after all.

Photo: synaes@Flickr

Alexander McQueen: eight years on

Written by Rona McCann on . Posted in Fashion & Beauty.

In February 2010 Alexander McQueen’s untimely death shook the world. Whilst many become legends after they die, McQueen had already become one of a sort in life, having injected brilliance into the realm of high fashion tailoring and patterns with his ingenious, maverick designs. Known for pushing the boundaries of elegance, prints, and structure in his work, it’s hard to see McQueen’s designs as anything other than art.

Of course, push the boundaries too far and you will not be shy of controversy (take collections dominated by fur garments and the ‘bumster’ trouser debuted in 1994, whose waistline was maybe just a little too low). The house of Alexander McQueen, however, truly has been a leader in its field, from being forever forwardly experimental with texture and cuts to hosting the first catwalk show to feature an amputee model.

Since 2010, Manchester-raised Sarah Burton has been creative director of the brand. She had worked closely with McQueen for the fourteen years leading up to his death, starting as an intern following the recommendation of a Central Saint Martins tutor who saw her potential and soon becoming a skilled collaborator of the designing force. It seemed only right that it was Burton who would step up for the top job. Suffering expected scrutiny initially, Burton quickly made her mark. Whilst keeping to McQueen’s trademark themes of clean-cut tailoring and using a vast range of intricate textiles, in recent collections we can see flashes of Burton’s love of nature in the bold floral patterns featured and a sense of theatricality found in layered, ruffled organza dresses.

Alexander McQueen is a favourite among many notable figures. Kate Middleton, whose famous wedding dress was designed by Burton, is regularly seen attending regal events in the label’s gowns. Pop sensation Lady Gaga became known for donning the designer’s more out-there fits in her early years of fame and remains to loyal to the brand, even bidding a staggering £190,000 for three pairs of its rare ‘Armadillo’ 12” heels at a 2015 charity auction.

During his life, McQueen held a passion for supporting young creatives. Sarabande, the foundation created in his honour with the help of his estate, has to date spent over £10 million helping gifted, innovative students of fashion, fine art, and jewellery design maximise their potential. The institute, which subsidies living fees and provides accessible workspace in an otherwise inaccessible market of eye-wateringly expensive London studio space, encourages its artists to experiment and push boundaries, providing aid and inspiration from McQueen’s former peers and experts in each field.

Eight years on and the impact of McQueen still spreads further than just what we wear. He introduced the world to new ways of artistic thinking through genuine creativity and has given a voice to the expressive. It may be a while before we see a talent quite like him.

Photo: synaes@Flickr
Photo: synaes@Flickr
Credit: Ebrahim @ Wikimedia Commons

Withington to host community litter pick

Written by Nicole Wootton-Cane on . Posted in News.

Withington Village is holding a community litter pick after the success of similar events over the course of 2017.

The event is organised by Withington Civic Society, who aim to protect and improve the environment and facilities available in Withington. The area is a popular place to live for students in Manchester, as well as housing families and young professionals.

A spokesperson for the event told The Mancunion: “Withington is home to many residents and to university students as well. To keep it an attractive place, we all can help. Litter is always a problem and a ‘litter pick’ creates a clean and attractive centre for us all. It would be great to have students along to help, whether or not you live in Withington. It is not only worthwhile but fun as well”.

The litter pick will take place on the 17th of March and convene outside the library. A celebration event is also being held in May, which offers an opportunity for students to engage with the local community and take part in activities offered.

To find out more, students can search ‘Withington Village Litter Pick’ on Facebook or email Withington Civic Society at [email protected].

Photo: Eleanor Forrest

The Terracotta Army has arrived in Liverpool

Written by Eleanor Forrest on . Posted in Arts.

In symbolic fashion, the home of the oldest Chinese community in the UK welcomed the Terracotta Warriors to the World Museum, Liverpool in the month of the Chinese New Year.

After spending 2,000 years underground, these impressive pieces tell the story of China’s first Emperor, Qin Shi Huang, and the tumultuous climate of China’s political landscape that was the Warring States period.

Beginning the exhibition with a 3-minute introductory video that set the scene of both the country and when the warriors were discovered in 1974. Once inside, the space was bathed in reds and decorated with informative but colourful banners reminiscent of tapestries. Chinese instrumental music resonated as you viewed the artefacts, some of which that had never been on British soil.

Photo: Cicely Ryder-Belson

Spanning 1,000 years of history, the exhibition was organised in a manner that made you feel as though you were following a timeline of events. The history covered began with the warring states, the rise and fall of the first Emperor as well as the rise of the Han and the dynasty’s legacy. In this backdrop were a vast range of artefacts on display, such as real weapons for the terracotta soldier’s to use in the afterlife and an impressive number of bronze works, such as wine vessels and cooking pots.

The exhibition was comprehensive and demonstrated the middle kingdom’s impressive political, societal and economic evolution within this time period and the power the nation held.

28308431_10214058363125503_1103794805_n

Photo: Cicely Ryder-Belson

The 10-figure collection on loan to Merseyside museums, including a life-sized horse and 1 of the 9 generals, demonstrate a new chapter between China and the UK. The exhibition serves to strengthen our two countries both historically and culturally as well as recognising the city of Liverpool’s importance.

The sheer skill involved in these proud and spectacular structures communicated the power of the first Emperor. This fact is emphasised when you take into account the number of these outstanding warriors. Each soldier possess individual facial features and some take different stances, it highlights how these statues were recognised as beings for the afterlife rather than merely objects.

The exhibition successfully communicated the environment that China found itself in 2,000 years ago, as well as the infallible power possessed by Emperor Qin Shi Huang.

His fixation with his rule and legacy led him to drastic actions, such as consuming mercury to increase his lifespan. But by focussing on his legacy he perhaps created one of the greatest testaments to his rule that inadvertently pays homage to the environment which saw him rise as the very first ruler of a unified China. A country that may not have evolved from strength to strength without that crucial step.

 

28342862_10214058361085452_795046305_o

Review: HIVE at HOME

Written by Jessica Wiehler on . Posted in Theatre.

A drab, wet February Sunday couldn’t have asked for a better pick-me-up as the University’s drama society (UMDS) held their first HIVE event at HOME.

For those who haven’t yet meandered through the Manchester mill conversions to discover HOME, it is a tall, warm, glass building just off First Street, and is Manchester’s newest cultural triple-whammy, containing cinemas, theatres, and exhibition spaces. For those of you who’ve been around Manchester prior to 2015, it’s Cornerhouse’s new residence.

HIVE was held on the second floor in a low-lit room by a quiet bar; minimal yet sophisticated in a no-nonsense way, the event space was full of interested and interesting performers, writers, and spectators.

The night contained eight performances, four on either side of an interval, modestly compèred by Ollie Norton-Smith, whose intermittent advertising for the Drama Society was effectively both charming and necessary for the evening’s new venue. The space made for a more attentive audience and was deserved by the standard of work showcased.

All performances were capped at twelve minutes meaning there was a mixture of full and part extracts. The professional attitude conducted by all the performers, however, left me wanting to see each piece in its entirety.

Several of the performances were monologues brought in by themes at the precipice of our university lives: the common biography of the drama student status and its subverted prosperity, the ongoing struggles in communication in Alfie Clark’s Penetralia, sex in Ellie Klouda’s Oceans and Aeroplanes, body image in Evie Appleson’s Does My Brain Look Big in This? and recognition of identity in Sam Whitehouse’s Dress.

Comedian Emily Fitzpatrick, with her female lecturer aesthetic crucial to the routine, exposed us all to the world of SpongeBob Literotica – a place I only intend to revisit when she performs again.

Extracts from Krea by Kristie Taiwo-Makanjuola and A Place by Sassy Holmes opened the door to what could be on the horizon for future drama society productions, managing even in their small window of time to bring us into their fictional worlds.

Bitter by Georgia Carney and Stella Ryley exhibited the vulnerable inner world so many of us experience at university refreshingly without criticism or diagnosis.

Efficiently run and ending appropriately for my new third-year bedtime, the fourth HIVE was an extremely successful student scratch night and nestled in comfortably at HOME. If you missed it, there’s another one before the year’s out – keep your eyes peeled.

City Council defends Antwerp closure

Written by Mancunion on . Posted in News.

Antwerp Mansion will be forced to close permanently in one month, after its what its bosses described as an “eight-month planning wrangle with [Manchester City] Council.”

Speaking to The Mancunion, councillor Angeliki Stogia, Manchester City Council’s Executive Member for Environment and Skills, said, “any suggestion that this decision is about anything other than the fact that Antwerp Mansion were not operating appropriately is completely wrong.”

Mrs Stogia’s comments come after the club, club-goers, and DJs criticised the Council for “plan[ning] to destroy all nightlife that is not in the city centre,” as Antwerp Mansion stated in a press release.

She continued: “we are a city that welcomes students, supports student nightlife and knows how to enjoy itself. What we don’t welcome is businesses such as Antwerp Mansion which consistently fail to engage with us over a long period to address legitimate concerns expressed by residents, the police and others.

The building has been operating as a club for seven years, despite only having a license (from the 1920s) to run as a private members’ club.

The club’s manager, Ben Hourahine, speaking to the Manchester Evening News, said “the council put us on an enforcement notice for its use as a nightclub which has been used for seven or eight years now.”

“We had no warning of this and no one from the Council made any attempt to speak to us.”

Alex Sansbury, local DJ and student at the University of Manchester, started an online petition backed by Antwerp Mansion on change.org. He said: “the closure of Antwerp is not because it is unsafe, it is not because they have had noise complaints, it is not due to thieves or drugs. The petition currently had over 15,000 signatures.

He claims that the closure of Antwerp “is because the council…want to destroy the student nightlife in this area irreparably… so students will have to go to the centre of town for a night out…which saves them [Manchester City Council] money.

“Our student community is being lied to by the Council and the Police; they are stifling creative spaces for all the wrong reasons.

“The student body must come together…to spread the truth about what is happening to our local nightlife.”

Manchester City Council said, “Manchester is rightly renowned for its nightlife and we welcome venues in neighbourhoods across the city but there has to be a balance so they work with the community, not against it. It is important that anyone opening a venue contacts the Council to get planning advice before they open.”

Antwerp Mansion issued a statement saying they had “no warning” that the club only had a license to operate as a primate members club and that “no one from the Council made any attempt to speak to us.

“During the appeal process both sides submitted evidence for and against the venue to continue as a nightclub. At this point MCC’s planning department started used every department available to them to gather evidence to support what we considered to be their very weak case.

“Despite no noise complaints in over two years, suddenly one was made and used in evidence against us. Licensing officers were regularly sent sometimes four or five nights a week on evidence gathering trips to inspect the building. Antwerp Mansion received letters from City Council licensing stating that we were in breach of multiple licensing conditions to our complete disbelief.”

Manchester City Council said, “our decision to take enforcement action against Antwerp Mansion has been scrutinised and upheld by an independent planning inspector appointed by the Government, who rejected Antwerp Mansion’s appeal.”

The club also claimed that, “the local authorities also want Antwerp Mansion removed from existence as it has been labelled a crime hotspot.” They alleged that the crime statistics are “meaningless” because the the majority of crime around the club involves phones being lost and registered as stolen for insurance purposes, but the Police do not record phones being returned.

Highlighting increasing concerns about crime in Fallowfield and surrounding areas, Antwerp Mansion asserted that “Antwerp Mansion is not a crime hotspot and we will not be blamed for students being attacked. It is the responsibility of the local authorities to look after its citizens at night.”

The Council said the club’s closure will be “good news for local residents who have put up with significant noise, violence and other anti-social behaviour brought to their neighbourhood because of Antwerp Mansion.”

A protest has been organised for the 16th of March in St. Peter’s square. The description of the event reads: “Antwerp Mansion has been a home to so many of us. I care deeply about the music scene in Manchester and the amazing venues that give it a place to live and thrive.”

Note: this is an amended version of previous article.

Photo: Pexels@Pixabay

Massive uprooting of campus greenhouses

Written by Meredith Sherock on . Posted in News, Science & Tech.

The university’s Botanical Experimental Grounds will soon be redeveloped, further establishing Manchester as a key institution for botanical studies. These state-of-the-art greenhouse facilities will better allow researchers to study plant and soil responses to various climates and conditions.

Construction, which will be financed by the University of Manchester’s endowment funds, will begin in summer 2018 and will take approximately one year to complete. The current facilities were erected in 1982, leaving renovation overdue for decades. The new Grounds will ensure that the site meets modern standards, “matching the best in the world,” according to project lead Dr. Giles Johnson from the School of Earth and Environmental Sciences.

The new greenhouses will allow researchers to grow plants in a range of conditions and temperatures, from subarctic to tropical. Additionally, scientists will be able to adjust the CO2 level of the growing facilities, which may predict plant responses to future climates. Drought and flooding effects will also be mimicked using precision watering systems. These controlled conditions should aid in understanding plants from the level of genes all the way up to their interactions as entire communities. “This will enable us to tackle research problems of food security and the impacts of climate change on natural ecosystems,” states Dr. Johnson.

Additionally, the site will house a new air quality research “supersite.” Here, researchers will collect high-quality data on the effects and origins of urban air pollution. Alongside University endowment funding, this branch will be funded by the Natural Environmental Research Council.

In total, the facilities will allow up to 30 scientists to work at a time, with each greenhouse providing 14 square metres of growth space. The new greenhouses will be located on the Fallowfield campus site, an area in which the university’s botanical history is rooted. This new site will exist on what was formally Sir Joseph Whitworth’s country estate, which was gifted to the University in 1887.

In 1909, the university’s first botanical gardens were developed in Fallowfield’s Ashburne Hall before moving to the current site in 1923. Within this history, Grounds researcher studied everything from the plants used in antidotes for World War I gas attacks to the disease-causing bacteria in Sudanese crops.

With this rich past in plant and soil research, this building upgrade will only continue the University’s botanical innovation. Professor Martin Schroder, Vice President of the University of Manchester and Dean of the Faculty of Science and Engineering, says: “This announcement is very much in-keeping with those traditions, and these latest developments will put the University at the forefront of botanical-based research in the sector.”

Photo: Jenny Liddle

Northern Vegan Festival promises a feast of delicious food

Written by Daisy Tolcher on . Posted in News.

Following the massive success of their 2017 event, The Northern Vegan Festival is BACK this year. This year’s event will offer a range of vegan cuisine, inspirational talks, cookery classes and much much more.

The food on offer will include a varied selection of plant-based dishes from around the world, including Asian, Indian and Greek cuisine. There will even be an eclectic array of raw dishes, gourmet dishes and street food dishes to sample. Similar to last year, there will be plenty of free samples to try so you can have a taste of everything!

Photo: Jenny Liddle
Photo: Jenny Liddle

If vegan food is not your thing, the festival will also feature a great selection of stalls selling a wide variety of goods including vegan fashion, beauty and skincare products. As well as stalls to look around there will be live music, workshops and live cookery demonstrations to keep you entertained all day.

Festival Organiser Victoria Bryceson says: “with the vegan lifestyle really starting to go mainstream there’s a massive demand for vegan-friendly events. The Northern Vegan Festival is set to be a fantastic day out whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or simply vegan-curious. The idea behind the festival is to educate and inform everyone about the vegan lifestyle and offer support to anybody who would like it.”

Photo: Jenny Liddle
Photo: Jenny Liddle

And for those of you who are considering getting involved in volunteering or are looking for a future career in charity work, Victoria says the festival is the perfect place for you.

“There will be several animal welfare charity stalls raising awareness of their causes. For anybody who would like to get involved with volunteering this is an ideal place to talk to lots of different charities and gather information, and all the stall holders are happy to talk to people and answer any questions.”

The Northern Vegan Festival takes place on 7th April 2018 between 10:30 am and 5:00 pm at Manchester Central, Windmill Street, M2 3GX.

Entry is £5 payable on the day on the door — 100 per cent of the ticket money goes to animal welfare charities as the festival is fully volunteer run — or £15 for advance fast track tickets to include a goody bag packed full of products, samples, discounts and offers.

Photo: Pexels

Recipe: healthy one-pot chicken and lentils

Written by Daisy Tolcher on . Posted in Food & Drink.

This one-pot dish is low in calories, easy to cook, and makes enough for four portions — that’s lunch and dinner sorted!

Ingredients:

  • 200g red lentils (using red lentils will result in a soup-like texture. If your Tupperware leaks when containing liquids, use puy lentils so that this dish has more structure)
  • 500g chicken (thighs are better in terms of taste but breast can also work)
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 onion
  • 1tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cans of chopped tomatoes
  • 1.2l of chicken stock (this adds a lot of salt to the dish, important to bear in mind when seasoning)
  • 2tsp paprika
  • 1tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp all-purpose seasoning

Method:

  1. Heat the oil in a pan and fry the onion on a low heat until softened, add the garlic and cook for one more minute.
  2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
  3. Stir in the carrot, lentils, tomatoes and spices. Add the stock so that it immerses the chicken.
  4. Leave the pan uncovered, reduce the heat and cook for half an hour until the chicken is cooked through and the lentils are tender. If using puy lentils you may have to adjust the cooking time to a further five minutes or so.

Season and enjoy!

Photo: Kirstie O'Mahony

Students ‘Reclaim the Night’

Written by Shivani Kaura on . Posted in News.

Thousands of students took to the streets of Manchester on the 22nd February to march against sexual violence and street harassment against women.

The march follows a sudden increase in attacks in student area, Fallowfield since September 2017.

3500 women marched in 2016, butthe numbers have declined since then with 2500 students marching in 2017 and approximately 1500 marching this year. Other figures have been quoted, up to 2700, but no official count was made on the night.

Photo: Kirstie O'Mahony
Photo: Kirstie O’Mahony

Caithlin, a student at the University who lives in Rusholme, just off the Curry Mile, said: “I do not feel safe on the streets of Manchester. I hate walking home on my own and have to carry a rape alarm every where I go.”

Patsy, a student who also attended the event, added: “I’m here to show solidarity with my sisters and it’s really important to promote and raise awareness for these issues that women have to face everyday.

“Last year, whilst we were on the march we had people throwing things at us and shouting hurtful comments, so we have to keep showing that we’re not afraid, even though we shouldn’t have to.”

‘Reclaim the Night’, led by student and non-student representatives featured a Muslim, ‘pro-choice’, youth and families and a LGBT block, as well as the women-only section in which any woman could participate.

Photo: Kirstie O'Mahony
Photo: Kirstie O’Mahony

Sara Heddi, the Women’s Officer at the Students’ Union, spoke to The Mancunion prior to the event about the blocs featured this year: “The Muslim women bloc is a fantastic addition to ‘Reclaim the Night’ and one that isn’t new. We had one last year that was well attended by multiple students! Its blocs like this that really embody of ‘Reclaim the Night’ and how intersectional it is.

“I am really happy to see other blocs this year as well such as the ‘Pro Choice Bloc’ and the Body Positive Bloc!”

Speaking to three-girls at the event, Faridat, Jessica and Lucy, about the different blocs, they said: “It’s nice to hear that women can identify to these different sections, although we should be able to walk together in solidarity without there being a divide. We’re united and we’re supposed to be together so we’ve chosen to stand in the women’s bloc.”

Speaking to the organiser of the Muslim Bloc this year, Hana Jafar stated at the event that “the University does have services to support young women, and The Union has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual harassment.

“I found that in the past, events organised by the Women’s Officer focusing on emotional abuse have been a step in the right direction, but it can’t end there, and it is not enough.

“Women are still being attacked, assaulted, and feeling vulnerable and helpless on campus. A recent policy to have a sexual assault advice page on the Students’ Union website was passed at Union Senate with 100 per cent of votes, and I think steps like these are small but crucial to preventing assault and making support more accessible for women.

“‘Reclaim the Night’ won’t make streets safer overnight, but it will remind women that they are not alone in their struggles, nor in their fight for a safer world for women and girls.

Photo: Kirstie O'Mahony
Photo: Kirstie O’Mahony

“This is my favourite night of the year because women of every cultural, ethnic, and religious background rally together to take a stand, and there is nothing more powerful than hundreds of voices chanting, singing and making their voices heard. This is one night where women literally take over the streets of Manchester, and I find that incredibly liberating and empowering.

“I hope for a day when we no longer have to rally in the streets to demand what is rightfully ours – safer streets, safer campuses, and safer workplaces.”

The Pro-Choice Bloc released a statement on their Facebook page proclaiming that, “[They] believe that it is a woman’s right to access abortion that is free, safe, legal and without harassment and intimidation. Every year thousands of woman around the world die as a result of not being able to access safe, legal abortion.

“In the UK, women in Northern Ireland still do not have the right to access legal abortion, forcing them to travel to England. However we have also seen in recent years, inspiring struggles for greater access to abortion.

“It is important that women join us at ‘Reclaim the Night’ to say that in Manchester it’s our bodies, our lives and our right to decide!”

‘Reclaim the Night’ has become a safe-space for women to talk about and share their experiences of why they have attended the night. Many have spoken out about how they feel more vulnerable later at night after hearing stories of women being followed home or groped after nights-out.

A retired sex-worker spoke to The Mancunion about her frustrations. Using the pseudonym ‘Freya’, she said: “I want rights, not rescue because I do not think the police does enough to protect sex-workers.

“The police are a lot of our clientele and tend to just pull our drivers over and check their licenses and make fun of us.

“This results in women who have been abused in sex-work not being able to come forward, making any harm done their fault and I don’t think that’s right.

“I want to see sex-work legalised so we can pay tax and claim back what we deserve. Protests like this help bring together awareness, but I also think that it’s nice to meet people who understand your situation and support you. This event is just as much for me as it is for everybody else.”

When asked what she would say to those police officers who allegedly make fun of them on the streets, she simply replied, “remember who f*cks the law.”

Photo: Kirstie O'Mahony
Photo: Kirstie O’Mahony

The march, held in the student populated areas of Manchester, intended to make women feel safer on the streets on their own and to increase awareness that the issue is there. Those that attended claimed that women should not have to feel like they need a man present when walking late at night to feel safe and should be able to live in a community where they are not endangered to sexual harassment, violence and victim blaming.

The Students’ Union also sold T-shirts prior to and at the event to raise money for sexual and domestic violence organisations within the local community, which are still available to buy from the Students’ Union website.

GMP were contacted for comment but did not reply.

Photo: Pixabay @ Pexels

Social media isn’t the cause of mental ill-health

Written by Aliya Ismangil on . Posted in Opinion.

I recently came across a BBC article, its headline reading, “Is social media causing childhood depression?” Intriguing. I read the article and found myself surprised at the one-sided feel of it. It was laden with statistics and expert opinions warning parents of the monster that is social media, inevitably ruining the next generation if we don’t do something about it now.

Only a small paragraph much further down in the article explained social media may also hold some benefits. Maybe it’s because I like my tech, maybe it’s because I grew up with social media — unlike, it seemed, the writers and researchers of the article — but I take issue with this stance.

Firstly, the obvious must always be said: correlation doesn’t equal causation. There is and has always been, a plethora of variables that lead someone to a diagnosis of clinical depression or anxiety. Though the article is very careful in its reporting of scientific evidence, headlines like this breed unnecessary alarm.

I agree that social media can be a significant contributing factor to mental ill-health, but I think it’s an exacerbation of factors that have always been here rather than a novel effect. An intense version of peer pressure, comparison, challenges to self-esteem, and bullying.

An extensive review of social media and its relation to neuroscience outline that social behaviours online and offline are remarkably similar. We tell others about things, we connect, and converse with people, we offer our opinions, we compare ourselves with others.
The difference is in the environment that these social interactions happen.

A key one is the proximity and anonymity of social media compared to the offline world. Online you can be anyone and no one; you can be thousands of miles away with a lovely barrier of pixels. And, taking it back to the classic psychology study by Milgram, both proximity and anonymity are important factors in how much someone ‘harms’ another.

Increased anonymity and the further removed an individual is, the more readily they will administer higher voltage ‘electric shocks’.

Another key difference observed by researchers is the instant and fast nature of social media.

There’s less time to think and more reactivity. These factors, and the popularity and prevalence of social media compound to make a potentially risky world of widespread harsh words and little thought. It is no surprise then that those who are already susceptible to such mental health difficulties have more chance of coming across such factors.

And for every piece of damning evidence, there is also a piece of evidence to say social media benefits people’s lives. A 2014 systematic review of 43 papers looking into social media use in adolescents revealed that the majority of studies found contradicting evidence or no effect. Though it is undeniable that there is evidence for harmful effects of social media, there are also studies that find benefits for social media use; these include things like increase self-esteem, perceived social support.

A study by researchers from Michigan State University shows that users feel better after supportive interactions online. Other research shows that the effect of social media on wellbeing in undergraduates depends on their motivations for using it.

It’s clear that there are many factors at play here. As with many things in life, I think the crucial thing to think about is how we use it. Everything in moderation. However, the discourse surrounding social media use in children and teenagers is completely off course here. It is not simply about limiting children to a set amount of hours of social media or phone use. It’s not about restriction.

Like it or not, social media is now a part of life. There are around two billion people worldwide that regularly use social media. It is a crucial part of our lives, just as emails are now an essential element of working life, and just as buses and cars are to how we get about. It’s about learning how to use social media as another helpful tool. Everything started as a new-fangled technology surrounded by scaremongering.

But we adapt, because adaptation is what humans do. So how do we adapt in this instance?

I think it’s something we should teach and openly discuss with children. Just as we’re taught manners in the offline world, how we’re taught email etiquette, how to know what bus to take, and how to drive. Humans are governed by rules, whether they be authoritative rules or social norms.

We have to create such norms about social media, so we’re on the same page.  Social media is a skill to be learnt. Our focus needs to shift from avoidance to adaptation. Social media shouldn’t be seen as a problem that will go away when we put it in a cage, it’s a tool that can improve the way we live if only we can all figure out how to use it best reap its benefits.

Photo: The Mancunion

Are You Coming Out? – The New LGBTQ Club Night

Written by Hannah Brierley on . Posted in Music.

On the 28th February at Club Academy, The University of Manchester LGBTQ Society is celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month by putting on a club night to remember! They’ve teamed up with Manchester Academy and the University of Manchester Student’s Union to put on an all-inclusive, fully accessible event.

“We’ve had loads of events throughout February celebrating LGBTQ+ History Month as well as all identities and expressions within the LGBTQ+ community and we would now like to put on a night to continue the celebration of our freedom, history, rights and progress of acceptance within society.

We are redefining the LGBTQ+ space in Manchester as a fully accessible, diverse night for everyone regardless who you are or where you come from, we accept all. It’s safe and familiar environment to students as it’s in the heart of the University campus and with it being a student night — that’s open to everyone — there will be cheap drinks! (Non-alcoholic drinks can also be purchased)

It’s a party that allows everyone of all identities to come together and to completely and unreservedly be themselves in our Student’s Union. The club night is open to everyone, especially minority identities such as BME LGBTQ+ people; you don’t have to be a student to come, and allies are also welcome. Expect music from Rap and R&B to House, Pop and more! We have gender-neutral toilets and a chill-out space.

The LGBTQ Society recognises the need for a more diverse and accepting LGBTQ+ nightlife spaces and events, we hope that this night helps to achieve this goal! As with all events we put on, there will be a zero tolerance policy to drugs and also any form of discrimination including, racism, homophobia, biphobia, transphobia, etc.

We are applying to a wider audience, more than just the usual people who go on nights out, with the hope to have a night that becomes to be part of both the student and Manchester experience!”

TICKETS AVAILABLE NOW:

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FROM:
⭐️ SKIDDLE – skiddle.com/e/13130889
⭐️ MANCHESTER ACADEMY – po.st/i7XCuz
⭐️ OR BUY AT THE STUDENT’S UNION ‘ASK IT’ DESK TO AVOID PAYING BOOKING FEE!

https://www.facebook.com/events/163550491096462/

Photo: Team Ico

Review: Shadow of the Colossus (PS4)

Written by Jamie McEvoy on . Posted in Games.

Upon release, the PlayStation 2’s Shadow of the Colossus rapidly became renowned for its extraordinary graphics, innovative style, and captivating narrative. It was years ahead of its time, and prompted an overwhelmingly positive reaction from both critics and gamers, many touting it as one of the best video games ever made.

13 years on, and the masterpiece from Team Ico (the developers responsible for cult hit Ico, to which Shadow of the Colossus is known as a spiritual sequel) is making headlines again, this time on the PlayStation 4.

Players control Wander – a young man who has travelled to a mysterious and forbidden land in order to revive Mono: a lifeless girl who he has brought with him. In order to achieve salvation for his companion, he must defeat various ‘Colossi’ – enormous, armoured goliaths which are a combination of beast, rock, and earth. Each creature has a different Achilles’ heel which the player must seek and focus their attack on – usually only accessible by climbing up the titan as it strives to shake off its assailant. Upon defeat of these creatures, Wander loses consciousness, to wake at the temple where he has left Mono, before setting out to seek the next Colossus.

Don’t be mistaken – this is far from a hack and slash RPG. Each battle with the protagonist’s adversaries requires a tactical approach and patience. The monsters all have a different Achilles’ heel, which must be targeted in order to emerge triumphant. However, none of these victories evoke joy or pride from the player – as gargantuan and imposing as the enemies are, many are docile and are merely protecting their home from an intruder. It is hard to think of another title which plunges its audience into such a sense of discomfort and moral ambiguity through its gameplay.

When Sony announced this remake back in 2017, there was a mixed response. Did a game which still stood up to the test of time really need to be tweaked, especially seeing as a PS3-remastering had already been made? Was there the risk of ruining an already perfect product? Thankfully, this PS4 restoration by Bluepoint Games hardly changes a thing.

The original was beautiful enough with 2005-standard visuals, but after the addition of ultra-high definition art assets in the remake, it is now absolutely stunning. The first glimpse of one of Wander’s titanic foes is breath-taking, but equally is the wilderness players must traverse through. It is easy to accidentally spend hours just exploring the desolate setting without any narrative progression, but this is by no means a fault. A ‘Photo Mode’ has been added to allow players to screenshot specific moments in their adventures, which is an excellent way to capture moments of beauty and awe which the game is rife with.

The only criticism of the original that could possibly be made, would be its over-ambition. At times, the PlayStation 2 appeared to struggle with rendering some of the environment’s features – water and fog in particular. However, in this current-gen revival, this is a problem of the past, with modern consoles being more than capable of coping with these features.

A nice touch by Bluepoint Games is the addition of post-completion awards, which allow those who have played through the entirety of the game to attempt various challenges to unlock items, as well as a ‘Mirrored World’ which allows for mirrored gameplay of the entirety of the game. These are small embellishments, yet add further longevity and replay value.

A work of art as much as a jaw-dropping game which transcends the limits of genre, it is wonderful to see Shadow of the Colossus redefined in high definition and with extra dimensions added. There is a whole world of pointless, cash-grabbing remasters and reboots out there, but with a game that is so gripping and melancholically beautiful, this certainly isn’t one of them.

9/10

Photo: altogetherfool@flickr

Students call for public event with George Osborne

Written by Cameron Broome on . Posted in News.

Students at the University of Manchester are calling for George Osborne to lead an open, public and free event before the end of the academic year, including the Chairman of the Conservative Party’s Manchester student wing.

The former Chancellor was appointed as an Honorary Professor of Economics in June of 2017, with Vice-Chancellor Dame Nancy Rothwell suggesting that “students and staff will benefit from all of this experience.”

Osborne visited the University on the 29th of September 2017 to speak to postgraduate Economics students as part of an invite-only event, with just 60 tickets allocated on a first-come-first serve basis.

Speaking to The Mancunion after his inaugural lecture, Mr Osborne said that he was going to be “coming a few times a term, so there’ll be lots of opportunity to meet different groups of students in different formats” but has yet to be involved in another event with Manchester students since.

Siôn Davies, Chairman of Manchester Conservative Future, the student Conservative society of the University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University, said, “George Osborne’s got a wealth of experience — as Chancellor of the Exchequer, as a local MP for Tatton, and as a driving force behind the Northern Powerhouse. His experience would benefit Manchester students massively.

“I’d be disappointed if I didn’t get to hear him do a public lecture before the end of the semester. I think he’d have a lot to say about the Northern Powerhouse; about how to promote growth and development in the region; and about how local and national government works. I know I’d have a lot of questions!”

Alex Tayler, current General Secretary of the Students’ Union, added: “I think it would be really great if he came again and it would be an interesting event that I’m sure a lot of students would benefit from it.

“I do really think he should come. I’m not going to slate him for not coming but I really think he should probably come about once a year to do a public event. He’s got a lot of insight and I’m sure he would spark an interesting debate.”

Mr Osborne told The Mancunion that he is “planning several visits to Manchester and events open to students” but did not commit to leading another event with students before the end of the academic semester.

Several students were initially critical of Osborne’s appointment and questioned the University’s rationale for giving the now Editor of The London Evening Standard a role at the University.

Outgoing Students’ Union Education Officer, Emma Atkins, had previously described his appointment as a “joke”.

She said: “How can Manchester honour this man whose track record over ‘economics’ was abysmal? I bet Economics students at Manchester would have something to say about being associated with him…”

It has been suggested that Mr Osborne’s appointment may have been influenced by the amount of money that he gave to the University during his time as Chancellor.

Commenting on this, Alex Tayler, General Secretary of the Students’ Union, said: “I know that some people think that he was only given the job because he gave money to the University but I’m not sure if I really believe that.”

Despite the initial debate surrounding his appointment, lots of students appear to have forgotten Mr Osborne’s involvement with the University entirely and have questioned if he has really made the impact that was first marketed by the University.

Conrad Gobrien, a second-year History and Economics student, said: “I had completely forgotten about the appointment. I haven’t seen or heard of any talks, debate or interactions that he’s done. To be honest, it seems like a PR stunt and just plain bull***t really.

“He hasn’t made any attempt to engage with the student population here (par that invite only thing which does not count). To sum up, it hasn’t benefited the students here whatsoever and his appointment seems like a PR stunt by the University hierarchy.”

A University spokesperson said: “we are in discussions about a number of events and engagements, but it is too soon to say when these will be or to give further details. He has already give a lecture to our postgraduate economics students earlier in the academic year.

“Not all events George Osborne will be involved in will be publicly advertised and some will be by invitation only to specific cohorts of students and staff, depending on the topic and purpose. Some events will remain private to students, as in the case of the lecture earlier this year, as we see it as one of the main purposes of his appointment for our students to learn from his vast experience as Chancellor.”

Commenting on a potential public event with George Osborne, Alex Tayler, Students’ Union General Secretary, said: “We should get Jacob Rees-Mogg to come as the bouncer.”

Tayler added: “It would be nice to get Theresa [May]. She did an event in town last week. If she could come publicly that would be nice, and not hide in a hotel.”