ALT Image shows the Lanyon Building at Queen's University Belfast with a speech bubble saying: GOOD LUCK!

ALT Our President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, today urged young people not to put their personal futures at risk by partaking in violence and disruption.  He was speaking as Queen’s made the decision to close the University campus, including its public facilities, on Friday 9 August as a precautionary measure to ensure staff and students travelling to and from campus are not put at any risk. Staff and students have been informed of interim support and learning measures.  Appealing directly to those involved in the recent disturbances, he said: “At Queen's, we abhor violence and condemn without reservation islamophobia, racism and xenophobia in all forms. “As a university community, we are committed to diversity, equality, inclusion and belonging, and to our campus being a safe, secure environment for all staff and students.

ALT “Rather, the biggest threat to your future prospects, and the greatest threat to your safety, comes from those who believe that violence is the answer, and that damage and destruction brings progress. None of this is true. We all want to see Belfast as a place that offers opportunities for you and your future. “Violence will not achieve this. Progress comes through cooperation and dialogue. “Queen’s is a committed partner for all of the people of Belfast. We work closely with communities to identify and address the challenges exacerbated by social inequalities. We are your university. We hold opportunities for you, as much as anyone else. “Let’s work together positively to change people’s lives. Let’s harness our energies for the wider good, including your own. Please do not jeopardise your future and the future of your city through misguided actions, which will damage your chances in life and damage this great city.”

ALT Image shows the Lanyon Building. In the top left-hand corner is white text that reads: Ramadan Mubarak

ALT image shows an aerial shot of the Lanypn Building. In the bottom left-hand corner is the text: CAMPUS UPDATE

ALT Image shows Emanuel Patrick Quashie who graduated with a PhD from the School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics. He is pictured standing outside the front of the Lanyon Building.

ALT Image shows Andrea Breen with her husband, son and daughter on Graduation day. They are pictured outside the front of the Lanyon Building.

ALT Image shows Harvey Barnes who graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering . He is pictured on his bicycle outside the Lanyon Building.

ALT Queen’s University’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Ian Greer, shaking hands with the Princess Royal at a ceremony hosted at Buckingham Palace.