University of Bradford Launches New Student App with Santander

Innovative app aims to enhance student experience and support

The University of Bradford has introduced a new digital app in partnership with Santander Universities UK, marking the first UK university to join the Santander network with such a platform. The app, named UoB Digital, is designed to provide students with easy access to a range of campus services and information in one place.

Features of the UoB Digital app

• Campus map
• Timetables
• News updates
• Links to student support services
• Access to Santander benefits

The app aims to improve student engagement and wellbeing by consolidating key resources into a single, user-friendly platform.

Partnership and funding support

Since May 2024, Santander Universities UK has been working with the University of Bradford, providing £150,000 in funding over three years. This funding supports scholarships, employability initiatives, entrepreneurship activities, online skills courses, and competitions for students.

Recently, Santander doubled its annual contribution to the university from £50,000 to £100,000. This increase is intended to widen access to higher education and improve student outcomes and opportunities.

Financial support and opportunities for students

• One student annually will receive a £10,000 grant over three years through the Santander Scholars Programme, aimed at supporting under-represented students.
• £15,000 will be allocated each year to support student entrepreneurship and start-ups, with at least three student-led businesses receiving up to £5,000 each.
• Employability support will include £15,000 per year, providing students with up to £1,000 each to assist with internships, work experience, or volunteering.
• Brighter Future Grants will offer £1,000 annually to 10 students across the university.

Launch event and student response

At the app launch event, students had the opportunity to try out two Williams Team Formula 1 simulators. The event highlighted the university’s commitment to combining technology and student engagement.

Aleesha Kadarsha, a second-year BSc Forensic and Medical Sciences student, commented on the app’s usefulness, noting its convenience for accessing timetables and quick links.

University and Santander statements

Paul Watson, University Provost, stated that the UoB Digital app is a significant development towards creating a more connected and supportive university environment. He described the app as an integral tool for student success and wellbeing.

Puja Patel, Head of Sustainable Finance and Universities at Santander, noted that the partnership and app launch represent a UK first and are intended to help students navigate campus life and pursue their academic and career goals.

Local significance

Santander’s partnership with the University of Bradford aligns with its existing presence in the city, which hosts one of the bank’s six UK head office sites. The bank plans to use the UoB Digital app launch as a model for collaboration with other UK universities.