The National Space Centre is sorry to be losing one of its star operators and yet grateful for the platform he has left for ever greater success and delighted that he will not be too far away in his exciting new role at the UK Space Agency.
Prof Anu Ojha OBE joined the National Space Centre as Director of Education & Space Communications in 2008 when the National Space Academy was just a concept. Prof Alan Wells (emeritus at the University of Leicester and a non-executive director) noted great success in the National Space Centre’s education programmes for primary and early secondary school students but little provision thereafter. He orchestrated a submission to the East Midlands Development Agency for a 14-19 years’ provision called Career Pathways & Workforce Development.
"Leading from the front, Anu proved a mesmerising teacher and influenced so many others who have watched and learned how to convey difficult science subjects via the inspiring context of space."
Anu turned this concept into the National Space Academy; initially in England and then across the UK. Leading from the front, he proved a mesmerising teacher and influenced so many others who have watched and learned how to convey difficult science subjects via the inspiring context of space. Numbers grew to 10,000 GCSE, A level/equivalent and BTEC students and 1,000 teachers. 30 students a year are on the jointly-delivered Loughborough College post-16 course in Space Engineering; 85% of whom have progressed to university or a Higher Apprenticeship programme. As the team has grown it has spread to new markets and ever-bigger stages. Programmes started in Norway, China, the UAE and currently South Africa with the wonderful support of the Lloyds Register Foundation.
In his new role, Anu will be UKSA's Director for Engagement, International and Inspiration. A part of this exciting work will include oversight on delivery of a new UK Space Agency programme that incorporates a major expansion of National Space Academy activity in disadvantaged communities across the UK. Dovetailing with the National Space Centre’s burgeoning Community Engagement Programme, the programme perfectly complements The Charity’s Space for Everyone philosophy.
Anu’s legacy includes a team of talented people who have been given the chance to shine. David Wilkinson (General Manager, National Space Academy) and Charlie Isham (Head of Education & Space Communications) have a brilliant opportunity to fulfil their challenging briefs.
Anu’s OBE for services to science education was thoroughly deserved and he will be returning regularly to Leicester to fulfil his professorship duties at The University. We look forward to welcoming him back – perhaps for one of his legendary nights out – and continuing to thrive with support from his Agency role. We wish him well!