Cardiff University: Cardiff University pays tribute to Bobi Jones as it returns to Urdd National Eisteddfod

The festival, which runs from 30 May to 4 June, is expected to attract up to 100,000 people over the week, many of whom will take part in competitions including song, dance and performance.

The University will host a series of talks, discussions and activities on the ‘Maes’, or Eisteddfod site.

Events include sessions exploring microplastics, the wonders of the human brain, discussions from former students who have since moved into journalism and media and the chance to explore the campus through virtual reality (VR).

It will also sponsor the Bobi Jones Medal for Welsh Learners, named after one of the most influential Welsh academics, born and raised in Cardiff, and himself an adult learner of the Welsh language.

Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Cardiff University, Professor Damian Walford Davies said: “As the Urdd celebrates its centenary, it’s a pleasure and privilege for Cardiff University to sponsor the medal named for the Cardiff-born learner who did so much to open up the language to others.

“We share the values that the medal itself celebrates: a commitment to the language and pride in hearing it reclaimed by new voices.”

Cardiff University’s Welsh Language Academy Manager, Catrin Jones, stated: “We are delighted to once again be supporting the Urdd National Eisteddfod as it returns to being an in-person event after the pandemic.

“Our presence at the festival is part of our commitment to raising the profile of the Welsh language and celebrating its culture, and we are excited to be sponsoring the Bobi Jones Medal – as the University is home to Learn Welsh Cardiff, where we sponsor lessons for both staff and students.”

And Head of Events at Cardiff University, Ali Carter, commented: “Our programme of events will involve leading academics in their fields and offers audiences the chance to hear about some of our important research, as well as the work we are doing to support young people from all backgrounds who choose to study with us.”