The University of Waikato and the University of Newcastle have further strengthened their relationship with the signing of a strategic partnership agreement this month.
University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky and University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor, Professor Neil Quigley sign a new strategic partnership agreement.
Following a successful two-day visit by senior delegates from the University of Newcastle, the two institutions committed to implementing a strategic framework that encourages greater collaboration between academic, professional, student and local communities.
University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor, Professor Neil Quigley says building strategic and enduring partnerships locally, nationally and globally is an important component of Waikato’s success.
“Over the last few years, the relationship with the University of Newcastle has delivered many benefits for our staff, students and the University. I am excited about taking our relationship to the next stage and being more intentional about our collaboration,” says Professor Quigley.
The introduction 18 months ago of a seed fund to support innovation and collaboration in research, teaching and professional practice has helped to deepen our collaboration and highlighted the breadth of areas of common interest that we can continue to build on.
University of Waikato and University of Newcastle delegates in the University’s wharenui, Ko Te Tangata.
Newcastle attendees including Chancellor, The Honorable Patricia Forsythe AM, the Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Alex Zelinsky, and others were welcomed onto campus with a pōwhiri.
University of Newcastle’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky says the strengthening of the partnership was a natural progression.
“There are many synergies between our universities, and I am pleased that we have been able to strengthen our relationship to provide more opportunities for collaboration with our students, staff and the community,” Professor Zelinsky says.
Our universities share a deep commitment to supporting our Indigenous communities, contributing to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and creating new opportunities for our students and staff, and this next step forward is one that I am very pleased we have been able to take.
Building on the University of Waikato’s commitment to sustainability and the SDGs, both institutions explored future opportunities in Indigenous knowledge sharing, support for early career researchers, and enhanced mobility of students and initiatives.
They also spoke about health, sport and business opportunities.
The relationship between the two tertiary providers began with a Student Exchange Agreement in 2020, where a Memorandum of Understanding was signed by the Vice-Chancellors.
The providers have several research commonalities, particularly across Indigenous studies, social sciences and engineering disciplines.
“This partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to excellence and innovation. Together, we are creating opportunities that benefit not only our academic communities but also the wider society,” says Professor Quigley.
