Live Lab event inspires Strathclyde students to explore careers in public service

Strathclyde journalism students gained first-hand experience of strategic communications through a two-day Live Lab event held in April 2026 at the University of Strathclyde. The initiative was designed to broaden access to careers in the sector and create pathways for students into public service communications. 

Now in its second year, the initiative, delivered by the Government Communications Team, brought together communications professionals from across the Glasgow and Edinburgh networks to work with 13 students on a real-world communications challenge. Participants were tasked with developing a communications campaign for a mock Commonwealth Games brief, applying professional campaign planning techniques in teams and presenting their recommendations to a panel of experts. 

The Live Lab forms part of the Government Communications Team’s wider commitment to building relationships with universities and attracting talent from diverse backgrounds, including first-generation learners and those from underrepresented communities. Strathclyde was selected for its excellent reputation in communications, journalism and politics education. 

Feedback from students and practitioners highlighted the impact of the experience.

 

 

I enjoyed the event, I had no knowledge or consideration of Government Communications before this week. I will definitely consider pursuing a career in Government now! 

Journalism student

I loved the crisis communications session, it was really interesting to hear about the people behind the scenes who made those campaigns and their decisions. 

Journalism student

Government Communications professionals praised the enthusiasm and creativity of the students. One noted that students were "genuinely engaged, asked great questions, and were keen to learn more about what government communications looks like in the real world", while another described the presentations as "extremely impressive". 

Following two years of successful collaboration, the initiative will expand to include other government career paths, introduce a mentoring programme linking government employees and Strathclyde students, bring Live Lab learning into degree teaching and create a student alumni network for future Live Lab participants. 

This positive partnership helps equip students with practical skills, develop professional networks and gain a clearer understanding of career opportunities, while enabling Government Communications to nurture the next generation of communications talent.