The immersive programme titled Communities and Place: Lasting Solutions for Local Challenges, aimed to equip participants with a deeper understanding of community dynamics in Northern Ireland and encourage them to consider innovative ways of addressing their own local challenges. Over the course of four days, students engaged in various activities, including fieldwork, discussions, and visits to different communities in Belfast.

The programme kicked off with a comprehensive session introducing QCAP and the fundamental concepts of community and place. It highlighted the unique challenges faced by urban, working-class communities in Belfast and shed light on innovative approaches used to address inequalities. The participants delved into the significance of understanding local contexts and exploring place-based responses.

One of the programme highlights was a visit to the Market community in South Belfast. The students embarked on a guided walkabout led by Fionntán Hargey of the Market Development Association, immersing themselves in the rich history and heritage of the area. This provided an opportunity for them to understand the complexities and narratives that shape our urban communities.

The students continued their exploration with a visit to the Shankill Road in West Belfast. Their day began with a walking tour led by Murray Watt, during which they learned about the community's history and the dynamics of local interfaces and peace walls. They then gained valuable insights and perspectives engaging in conversations with peers from the R-CITY Belfast initiative, broadening their knowledge of Belfast's urban space from the perspective of young people.

A visit to Parliament Buildings at Stormont was organised of the final day of the programme. They received a tour of the Assembly and engaged in discussions with policymakers, exploring the democratic process in Northern Ireland. The session provided valuable insights into policy formulation and how communities can actively engage in shaping their futures.

The final session of the programme, titled "What does community mean to you?" prompted participants to reflect on their experiences and critically examine their own perceptions of community. Students were encouraged to consider their role as active agents for positive change in their respective communities.

Throughout the four days, participants developed a nuanced understanding of community and place, recognising the challenges faced by local, urban communities. They gained a deeper appreciation of the rich heritage of Belfast's working-class communities and honed their research skills through engaging in fieldwork activities.

Dr Gareth Robinson expressed his satisfaction with the programme's outcomes, stating:

"The QCAP summer school programme provided an invaluable platform for international students to explore the complexities of communities in Belfast and the importance of place-based responses. Through getting involved and engaging with residents, the students have developed a profound understanding of local challenges and the potential for positive change."

The success of the QCAP programme demonstrates the commitment of Queen's University Belfast to fostering community engagement and empowering students to make a lasting impact in their localities. The programme has equipped participants with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to become active contributors to building sustainable and prosperous communities.

As we bid farewell to the students, we hope they leave QCAP with a sense of purpose, ready to apply their new skills and be catalysts for change in their own communities, armed with a deeper appreciation of the complexities and challenges faced by increasingly urban societies.

QCAP would like to express our sincere gratitude to those from both the Market and Shankill communities who made the programme a transformative experience for the group of students. Your expertise, input, and passion were invaluable. Through your efforts, the students had the opportunity to engage in enriching activities and gain valuable insights from residents and local initiatives. Your commitment to creating a meaningful learning experience is truly appreciated. Thank you.