As the north-east looks ahead to the Scottish Parliament elections, the University of Aberdeen is placing democratic debate firmly centre stage.
This spring, the University will host two dynamic events bringing together students, academics, policymakers and the wider public to explore the issues, ideas and choices shaping Scotland’s political future.
From a lively panel discussion to a public-facing debate, the programme reflects the University’s long‑standing commitment to informed civic engagement.
It starts with a hustings event on April 21 at Elphinstone Hall where broadcaster and journalist Davy Shanks will be asking candidates from the main political parties contesting the 2026 Scottish Parliament election to outline their plans for the region.
Organised in partnership with Prosper, attending will be Jack Middleton, SNP candidate for Aberdeen Central; Liam Kerr, Scottish Conservative candidate for Aberdeen Deeside and North Kincardine; Maggie Chapman, Scottish Greens candidate on the north east regional list; Michael Turvey, Liberal Democrat candidate for Aberdeen Donside; Jo Hart, Reform UK candidate for Aberdeenshire West; and Matthew Lee, Scottish Labour candidate for Aberdeen Deeside and North Kincardine.
Prosper Chief Executive Sara Thiam said: "Prosper is delighted to be working with our friends at the University of Aberdeen University on two such key election events at a time when the North-east of Scotland is going through great changes."
Taking place from 5.30-8.30pm, attendees at the in-person event will have an opportunity to ask questions, ensuring a dynamic and interactive debate.
More information on ‘The North East Decides – Election 2026’, including booking details, is available here.
The programme culminates with a joint event with the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) on April 28, entitled ‘Scottish Elections 2026 – Tax, Spending and the Economy’, where leading experts will set out the current context and analyse the proposals for the next five years put forward by Scotland’s political parties.
Chaired by Magnus Llewellin, Director of Policy at Prosper Scotland, panellists include David Phillips, Head of Devolved and Local Government Finance at the IFS; Professor Keith Bender, Chair of Political Economy at the Business School and Dr Judith Sijstermans, lecturer in politics at the School of Social Science.
The IFS’s David Phillips said: “The different political parties are setting out visions for the future of Scotland that differ in big ways. But whoever is in government post-election will have to confront a stark financial outlook. We’ll assess the tax, spending and public service plans of the different parts, with University of Aberdeen experts looking at the politics and implications for the north-east’s economy too.”
Taking place take place at the Macrobert Building, King’s Campus, from 5.30-7.30pm, register to attend here.
Dr Heather May Morgan, Vice-Principal - Regional Engagement & Innovation at the University of Aberdeen, said: “Universities play a vital role in shaping the political landscape of their regions, providing trusted spaces for dialogue, critical thinking and evidence-based discussion. “By convening these election-focused events, the University is reinforcing its role as a civic anchor in the north-east, helping to inform voters, amplify diverse voices and contribute meaningfully to Scotland’s national conversation at a pivotal moment.”