University of Waikato explores closer ties with Australian cousins

University of Waikato delegates visited University of Newcastle, New South Wales, exploring a strategic partnership and engaging with colleagues.

02 Nov 2023

University of Waikato Vice-Chancellor Neil Quigley and University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor Professor Alex Zelinsky are welcoming closer ties between the two institutions.

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This followed an earlier visit to the University of Waikato by a delegation from the University of Newcastle led by their Vice-Chancellor, Professor Alex Zelinsky.

The University of Waikato delegation was led by Vice-Chancellor Professor Neil Quigley, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research, Professor Bryony James and Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic, Professor Robyn Longhurst. The delegation also included the Acting Dean, Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao – the Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies, Professor Sandy Morrison, the Acting Dean of Health, Associate Professor Jo Lane, Director of Operations for the Tauranga campus Mr Joseph Macfarlane, and three researchers in areas of potential collaboration.

“We would like to thank Professor Alex Zelinsky and the many staff from the University of Newcastle who received us so warmly and gave so generously of their time to advance our relationship” says Professor Quigley.

“Despite operating at a different scale and in different countries, the two universities have a great deal in common and face many similar strategic and operational challenges. Professor Zelinsky and I look forward to sharing more details about planned initiatives, including joint programmes, mutual support for the development of programmes in individual areas of strength, funding to support joint projects and staff exchange opportunities”.

Delegation walking around the Wollotika Institute

The University of Waikato delegation was warmly welcomed at the Wollotuka Institute

Professor Quigley says a highlight of the visit was the welcome provided at the Wollotuka Institute and the opportunity to learn about its commitment to the advancement and leadership in Indigenous education.

Professor Sandy Morrison says she and her colleagues “identified several opportunities for teaching and research collaborations which would be mutually beneficial for both our communities.”

Similarly Associate Professor Jo Lane noted “the high quality of the University of Newcastle programmes in health and medicine, their commitment to regional, rural and indigenous health workforce issues, and the potential alignment with the Waikato medical school proposal.”