The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) and the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) have successfully launched their new Innovation Lecture Series with an inaugural event at the Dylan Thomas Centre, Swansea.
The first lecture in the quarterly series, themed “Innovation in Health and Welfare,” brought together an audience of academics, students, industry professionals, and members of the public to explore how innovation can transform the way we care for people and communities.
Developed by Alan Mumby, lecturer at UWTSD’s Wales Institute of Science and Art (WISA), the series is designed to highlight innovation across multiple sectors and foster dialogue between education, enterprise, and society.
The evening featured keynote presentations from Dr Rhys Thomas, CEO of Virtual Ward Technologies, and Professor Gareth Davies, Dean of UWTSD’s Institute of Management and Health. Both speakers shared insights into the power of innovation to improve health outcomes, drive digital transformation, and enhance wellbeing.
Dr Thomas gave examples from his groundbreaking work in medical technology and digital health, while Professor Davies reflected on the importance of innovation management and leadership in shaping the future of healthcare systems and workforce development.
Speaking after the event, Professor Gareth Davies said:
“It was inspiring to see so many people from different disciplines coming together to share ideas and challenge assumptions. This new partnership between UWTSD and the RSA will provide an ongoing platform for collaboration, creativity, and impact.”
The Innovation Lecture Series, delivered in collaboration with the RSA, will continue throughout the 2025–2026 academic year with events exploring:
- Winter 2026: Innovation in Technology and Science
- Spring 2026: Innovation in the Manufacturing Sector
- Summer 2026: Innovation in the Creative Industries
Each lecture will take place on the SA1 Swansea Waterfront campus, and will also be live-streamed to ensure accessibility for wider audiences.
UWTSD said the launch event marked a significant milestone in its commitment to fostering innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and social impact, reflecting the university’s ongoing partnership with organisations that share its vision for shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.
