Oxford University is embroiled in a legal battle as it seeks a High Court injunction to prevent two Oxford-based companies, Oxford Programs and Oxford Royale Academy, from using the name

"Oxford" in connection with their summer school activities.

The prestigious university, with a history dating back to 1096, alleges that these companies have caused significant damage by associating their services with the Oxford brand. In recently filed court papers made public, Oxford University is requesting a High Court order that would compel the companies to change their names, excluding the word "Oxford" from their titles.

Oxford Programs and Oxford Royale Academy organize summer schools not only in Oxford but also at esteemed institutions such as Cambridge University, Imperial College London, Yale, and Berkeley. Their programs, which span various subjects including medicine, engineering, law, and architecture, offer students a glimpse into life at renowned universities. These two-week courses, designed for teenagers aged 13 to 18, come at a cost of £5,995.

Distinguished guest speakers, including poet Andrew Motion, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, and politician William Hague, have participated in these educational events. The companies also cater to adult learners and welcome international students.

In its legal action, Oxford University is seeking the transfer of internet domains oxford-royale.com and oxford-royale.co.uk from Oxford Programs. Additionally, the university aims to establish that the two companies have infringed or pose a threat to four of its trademark registrations. Moreover, Oxford University is requesting damages or an account of profits since May 2017 and an injunction to prevent further trademark infringement. The university also seeks a court order compelling the companies to publicize any court judgment against them.

Oxford University declined to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings. Photo by Man vyi, Wikimedia commons.