Knowledge Equity Network (KEN) – Reflections on the May Symposium

The day was an embodiment of the principles of the Knowledge Equity Network, a global initiative co-founded by the University of Leeds and the University of Pretoria in 2023, of which the University of Salford is a member. KEN aims to transform higher education through equitable access to knowledge and knowledge production. 

 
Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Professor Simone Buitendijk said;

“Participatory and community-engaged research looks at knowledge production in a more holistic way. It ensures that marginalised groups bring their lived experience into the design of the research, the process of it, and the implementation of the results. Community-engaged, participatory research asks from the onset whose voices are missing from traditional research projects; who defines the problem the research is trying to solve; who benefits from the research; and which experiences may easily be overlooked because they do not fit traditional assumptions. 

“It is difficult research to carry out. It needs a multidisciplinary approach and a keen sensitivity to the needs of the community members who participate. It often requires a high level of co-design and an even more open mind than more traditional research requires.”

Salford’s diverse research community

The University of Salford has a research community which masters the skills of community-based research, which was clearly evident on the day. The levels of compassion and generosity, coupled with the use of robust research methodology were impressive, and it was clear that much of the research not only gets shared with our students, but in many cases is partially carried out by them!

This means that knowledge becomes richer and the results of research are easier to implement to create positive change, when it is being created and produced in conjunction with people who are directly impacted.

Power driving positive outcomes

Direct involvement, agency and power are key to positive outcomes in many community research fields, whether it is in pregnancy and child births, or in the use of assistive technologies by people with a disability; in supportive care for workers with Rheumatoid Arthritis or in developing active participation in the building of homes and communal living spaces.

Simone added;

“In my own past research I tried to capture the voices of women reflecting on their pregnancy and childbirth experiences. I worked together with colleagues in the humanities and social sciences as well as from medical and care backgrounds. Together we were able to learn more about what women want and need during a pivotal period in their lives. That knowledge complements other types of research knowledge about safe pregnancy and childbirth. 

“Without the input from women themselves, it is impossible for caregivers to create optimal circumstances, to empower women and literally give them a voice in the process. This is important also because when women feel a sense of agency and power, the chances of a positive outcome are so much better”

Taking KEN into 2027

The day itself highlighted the importance of researchers being truly curious and caring, and directly engaging with people who have lots to contribute to research, but don’t always get to shape it or benefit from it. 

We have been developing a KEN Statement to set out the University’s ambitions with the network going forwards, which we look forward to sharing this academic year. We also hope to run further events and grow the network on campus, so do get in touch with Simone if you are keen to get involved.

Finally, Simone reflected: 

“I am very proud of the research community in Salford and felt truly inspired by the day. I heard many participants express ideas about the next KEN symposium and I must say that I can’t wait!”