Photo by Mitchell Luo on Unsplash

Commentary by Professor Mike Wilmore, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Acting) on Goal 3 of the Future Fit strategic plan

The most important thing to know about the future is that we have one.

UNE acknowledges its necessary role in supporting the ongoing health and resilience of our communities, our people, and our natural environment.

This responsibility starts with a dynamic, resilient University capable of fulfilling its brief to create and disseminate knowledge in support of students and communities.

There are challenges. Globally, Higher Education is in crisis. UNE is navigating this crisis, and will approach the crises that will surely follow, with the aim of not merely surviving but growing stronger and more capable.

This necessarily means building a workplace that supports teamwork, rewards staff innovation and excellence, and aligns UNE’s course and research profile with market needs.

Just as UNE is evolving toward flexible, sustainable ways of working, the University is offering its students the flexibility to negotiate life challenges without abandoning their educational aspirations.

Similarly, our research priorities must be shaped by our commitment to environmental, social and financial sustainability.

UNE is positioned to be a partner of choice for those undertaking to create the future – whether they are individuals, enterprises, communities or nations.

The future is a joint project.