Dr Ourania Varsou, Senior Lecturer in Anatomy at the University of Glasgow and a member of the Royal Society of Edinburgh’s Young Academy of Scotland (YAS), has embarked on a unique journey into the world of politics as part of the YAS-MSP Pairing Scheme. This initiative pairs YAS members with Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) for a series of shadowing opportunities, offering an insider’s view into the legislative process while fostering mutual partnerships between academia and policymakers.
As part of the scheme, Dr Varsou shadowed Paul Sweeney MSP (Scottish Labour and Co-operative Party) on 29th November 2024, engaging in a day filled with diverse political activities. The day began at the University of Glasgow with the Scottish Labour Interfaith Breakfast, where attendees heard from Anas Sarwar MSP and Lord Khan of Burnley. Both speakers emphasised the importance of community cohesion and the vital role faith groups play in addressing societal challenges. This event also provided a platform for open dialogue between policymakers and faith leaders.
The second part of the day took Dr Varsou to the Glasgow West of Scotland Forum of Housing Associations conference. Here, Mr Sweeney spoke on two panels, focusing on his advocacy for the Reidvale Housing Association campaign. The discussions shed light on the complexities of housing policy and the collaborative nature of addressing community issues. Observing Mr Sweeney’s dedication to his constituents offered Dr Varsou valuable insights into how political advocacy translates into tangible change.
The day concluded with a meeting at Mr Sweeney’s local office, where Dr Varsou met his team and learnt about their roles in supporting his work in Glasgow. This behind-the-scenes glimpse into the operations of an MSP’s office showcased the coordination and effort required to navigate the multifaceted demands of political life.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr Varsou shared her initial apprehension about stepping into the political sphere, an area far removed from her expertise in anatomy. However, she found the day both inspiring and enriching; “Politics is a world I had little direct experience with, but this opportunity opened my eyes to the interconnectedness of academia and policymaking”, she said. Dr Varsou also highlighted the value of such initiatives in fostering dialogue between academics and policymakers; “The YAS-MSP Pairing Scheme fosters mutually beneficial and sustainable partnerships. I believe this experience will further solidify the connection between disciplines like anatomy and the legislative process”.
Looking ahead, Dr Varsou is excited to continue her involvement in the programme, including a second shadowing day with Mr Sweeney and she is eager to host him for a reciprocal visit at the University of Glasgow Anatomy Facility.
