UEL and Newham AI centre nominated for prestigious award

The UK Centre for Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector, a pioneering collaboration between the University of East London (UEL) and the London Borough of Newham, has been shortlisted for the 2025 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards in the Public/Public Partnership category.

The Centre, launched in September 2024, aims to harness AI to tackle key local issues. Its mission is to provide person-centred solutions that enhance services in temporary accommodation, local economies, health, social care, and climate change. 

Professor Amanda Broderick, Vice-Chancellor and President of UEL, said, "We are delighted that the UK Centre for Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector has been recognised for its promising work. This reflects the University’s commitment to innovation and ethical AI rooted in community collaboration, to co-create data driven solutions.

In 2025, we are celebrating a Year of Health, showcasing our commitment to addressing healthcare disparities and promoting wellbeing in our communities, and being shortlisted for this award highlights the important work we do alongside our local government partners to leverage technology in addressing public health and economic inequalities. Together, we are transforming our communities and fostering a healthier, fairer, and more sustainable world for all."

Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz said, “We are thrilled that the UK Centre for Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector - a pioneering collaboration between Newham Council and the University of East London - has been shortlisted for the 2025 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards in the Public/Public Partnership category. This recognition highlights the power of partnership between academia and local government in using AI to tackle public sector challenges, improve services, and unlock new opportunities for local businesses and communities.”

The LGC Awards celebrate outstanding practice and cutting-edge innovation from local government organisations across the UK. LGC editor Sarah Calkin said, “We received almost 1,000 entries, making it another record-breaking year and meaning all those on the shortlist should be extremely proud to have made the cut.”

The University of East London is pioneering AI research and application with a focus on inclusive and ethical approaches. The University’s cutting-edge work addresses health inequality, climate change and other pressing challenges. The University is also committed to training a diverse new generation of AI leaders through dynamic undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

The collaboration between UEL and the London Borough of Newham exemplifies the potential of partnerships in creating innovative solutions for community challenges, particularly in public health. The work conducted at the UK Centre for Artificial Intelligence in the Public Sector is a testament to the commitment to ensuring that the benefits of technology and education reach all corners of society, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future.

The winners of the LGC Awards will be announced at a ceremony on 11 June 2025 at Grosvenor House, London.