Manchester Museum appoints new Head of Learning and Participation

Manchester Museum, part of the University of Manchester, has appointed Sam Kalubowila to the newly-created position of Head of Learning and Participation, reinforcing its commitment to values-based practice.

Kalubowila will build on the Museum’s approach to learning and participation, emphasising the principles of imagination, inclusion and care, which underpinned its success in winning the European Museum of the Year Award 2025. Working with colleagues across the Museum and the University of Manchester, he will aim to help more people benefit from globally-significant collections and research, developing programmes for lifelong learning, creative health, social justice and environmental action.

He brings more than 20 years’ experience in programme design and delivery across culture and education, including roles at Arts Council England, The University of Manchester’s Ahmed Iqbal Ullah RACE Centre and senior positions in higher education.

“Since moving to Manchester in 2005, I’ve developed a really deep connection with Manchester Museum,” said Kalubowila. “I’m so excited to work with colleagues across the Museum and the University of Manchester to continue opening access to the collections we care for, creating inclusive learning spaces where we can come together to tackle the big questions.”

Esme Ward, Director of Manchester Museum, added: “Since reopening in 2023, we’ve been building a phenomenal team that embraces the values of inclusion, imagination and care, and Sam will be such a valuable addition. But we’re just getting started. On the back of this, a series of recent curatorial appointments and the upcoming launch of our new strategic plan, we’re striding confidently into the next 10 years of Manchester Museum.”