UK Economy sparks lively debate at first Topical Talk
More than 40 scholars from around the UK met in London on 26 November for the first of this year’s Chevening Topical Talks.
Topical Talks are Chevening’s annual lecture series which allow scholars unique access to experts in different fields of work in the UK. Each talk features a panel of speakers, and scholars are encouraged to ask questions on the talks.
Wednesday’s talk was at the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, in Westminister, London, with the talk centred on the UK economy and immigration.
The panel was made up of some of the excellent staff at NIESR, including James Warren (macro modelling forecasts), Anna Rosso (immigration research) and Jake Anders (education and employment research).
Each presented for around 20 minutes, before opening up the floor to questions from the enthusiastic scholars. Several questions were asked, including some, which opened up some lively debate.
The evening was rounded off with drinks and nibbles during a networking session for the scholars and speakers, which allowed the debates to continue.
Ceri Waddington, Senior Programme Officer at Chevening, was felt the night was a great success.
“Our first Topical Talk of the year was a very informative session with lively and probing questions from the scholars. It was also great to see discussions taking place between scholars once the talks had finished too.
Thank you to NEISR and all the speakers for giving us their time. It’s extremely valuable for the scholars as they continue their education here in the UK.”
Chevening Scholar Ahila Thillainathan added: “It was a good experience with an insight into key issues affecting the UK economy such as recession and migration.
It was also a great opportunity to meet some of the Cheveners from other universities, and I’m aleady looking forward to the next Topical Talk.”
 |
| Scholars listening to Jake Anders |
 |
| There were plenty of questions from scholars |
 |
| James Warren giving his thoughts on the UK economy |
 |
| Networking after the talks |