U21 Impact Report 2023

Impact

Report

2023

Contents

Impact Report 2023

Click or tap the page number to take you there

4

Provost’s Introduction

6

Global Connections: Map of Members

8

Hot Topics in Higher Education 9

AI

10

Sustainability

11

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (EDI)

12

Spotlight: 29th Member –

Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia

13

Spotlight: Michael Grove,

University of Birmingham

14 Engagement 16

Senior Leaders’ Meeting

18

Researcher Engagement Meeting

20

Educational Innovation Symposium

24

Extending Our Reach

26

Spotlight: Shoutao Wu,

Shanghai Jiao Tong University alumnus

27

Spotlight: Priyasha Sharma,

University of Delhi alumna

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Impact Report 2023

29

Transforming Assessment Project

30

COIL: Collaborative

Online International Learning

31

ARUA-U21 Partnership

31

Communities of Practice (CoP)

32

U21 Health Research Exchange

33

Social Work

34

Disability Champions of Change

35-38

The U21 Awards 2023

39 Programmes 40

U21 Mid-Career Researcher Programme: Reset, Re-imagine, Reframe

42/43

Global Leadership programme

44/45

Sustainable Micro-internships

46-48 RISE Showcase and Awards

Contents

28 Collaboration

49

QS Reimagine Education Awards shortlisting

50

Spotlight: The Moonbeam Co

51

Spotlight: Dr. Christopher Haggarty-Weir,

The University of Queensland

52 Conclusion

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Impact Report 2023

2023

Provost’s Introduction This year has been invigorating for the network. We have resumed our face-to-face events, enabling several stakeholder groups to reconnect with each other, sometimes for the first time in four years.

It has also provided a very timely opportunity to consider some of the challenges facing the international Higher Education sector such as the climate-nature crisis, global inequities, political tensions, cost-of-living pressures and rapidly advancing digital technologies.

All of these challenges and more raise existential questions for our core missions as universities. Our responses, as uniquely placed institutions, are critical for the way we work with our local communities and global partners towards solving some of the most pressing issues facing the planet.

The network has been exploring some of these challenges. The signing off at the Annual Network Meeting in Brisbane of our statement of Network Mission and Principles, along with a U21 Commitment to Sustainability, is an important milestone. It has accelerated discussion of how, as a network, we can advance our commitment to sustainability and equity, diversity and inclusion. We also tackled issues around technological disruption and opportunity at meetings of the Educational Innovation and Researcher

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Engagement clusters, where Higher Education leaders explored the implications of generative AI for teaching, learning and research.

Alongside these significant events and discussions, our commitment to internationalisation remains fundamental to our operations.

Whilst reintroducing face-to-face engagement, we have continued to offer the same level of online programmes for staff and students in the network. Moreover, we are extending our reach through activities such as the increasingly popular Sustainable Micro-Internships, new Communities of Practice (CoPs), the ARUA-U21 partnership and initiatives such as the U21 Humanities Health Sciences Global Classroom.

I would like to warmly acknowledge the outstanding U21 team who delivered our high quality programmes and activities during the year – Jade Bressington, Amber Bartlett, Deborah McAllister, Catherine Lemon, Mary Elliston, Sarah AthowFrost, Sian Musgreave-Spiby and Tarlok Singh.

Finally, my heart-felt thanks to our Chair and Presidential Executive, our members and programme partners for their valued contributions in 2023.

We look forward to working with you in 2024.

Professor Jenny Dixon, Provost, Universitas 21

Impact Report 2023

We are extending our reach through activities such as the increasingly popular Sustainable Micro-Internships, new Communities of Practice, the ARUA-U21 partnership and initiatives such as the U21 Humanities Health Sciences Global Classroom

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Impact Report 2023

AUSTRALIA

The University of Melbourne UNSW Sdney The University of Queensland University of Sydney

BELGIUM

KU Leuven

CANADA

McMaster University

CHILE

Global Connections MEMBERS

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

CHINA AND HONG KONG (SAR) Shanghai Jiao Tong University Fudan University The University of Hong Kong

INDIA

University of Delhi

INDONESIA

Universitas Gadjah Mada

IRELAND

University College Dublin

JAPAN

Waseda University

MEXICO

Tecnológico de Monterrey

NEW ZEALAND

University of Auckland

SINGAPORE

National University of Singapore

SOUTH AFRICA

University of Johannesburg

SOUTH KOREA

Korea University

SWEDEN

Lund University

SWITZERLAND

University of Zurich

NETHERLANDS

University of Amsterdam

UNITED KINGDOM

University of Birmingham The University of Edinburgh University of Glasgow University of Nottingham

UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

University of Connecticut University of Maryland UC Davis

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Impact Report 2023

New Member welcomed in 2023 Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia

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Impact Report 2023

Hot Topics In Higher Education 1 Sustainability 2 Artificial Intelligence 3 Equity, Diversity, Inclusion Global Higher Education faces grand challenges as we adjust to the reality of life in a postCovid world. This is a world defined by rapid technological and social advancements coupled with significant economic and ecological challenges. 2023 has seen the network engage with developments across Sustainability, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion (EDI). As a network, U21 is well placed to engage and support leadership on these topics.

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Impact Report 2023

HOT TOPICS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

1 Sustainability U21 cares deeply about a future that is safer and more sustainable for our students, our staff, alumni, and the wider communities that we serve. In this regard, we are committed to action in support of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

This year also marks an increased focus on Sustainability, with the development of a new Commitment to Sustainability, making it a clear priority area for the network.

At a time when students are increasingly raising their concerns for the environment, as reflected in programmes such as RISE and Global Citizens, sustainability principles need to be at the heart of higher institutions’ strategies

and cultures . The network has agreed to advance timely solutions to these three integrated environmental, societal and economic global goals: 1. Research towards a more sustainable future 2. Promoting sustainability through education and engagement 3. Improving our own organisations as exemplars of sustainable practice A group of Senior Leaders are now focusing on how the network should monitor progress on the Sustainability Commitment with a view to reporting on progress at the U21 AGM in 2025.

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Impact Report 2023

HOT TOPICS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

2 Artificial Intelligence “Generative artificial intelligence has catapulted AI into mainstream consciousness, scoring high on the university earthquake Richter scale, with aftershocks accompanying each upgrade”, said Professor Simon Buckingham Shum (University of Technology Sydney), the keynote speaker at this year’s U21 Educational Innovation Symposium on ‘Scoping the Future in Higher Education: Transition or Transformation?’

A key issue for members has been its impact on assessment, learning and course development.

At the U21 Presidents’ Virtual Meeting in November, keynote speaker Professor Michael Grove (Professor of Mathematics, Deputy Pro-Vice-Chancellor Education Policy and Standards, University of Birmingham) commented that while “there is nothing intrinsically bad about technology”, there is a “…need to regulate use of the tools and ensure transparency.”

Michael Grove noted his concern that “equity will become an issue” as some students won’t be able to afford paidfor-subscriptions to better technological systems, likely leading to what he terms “a technological divide”. Yet, he is among those keen to leverage the opportunity to explore AI’s

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potential to support academic staff in the creation and assessment of course material, and to engage students in problem solving, critical thinking, analysis and communication.

Others, such as Professor Justin Zobel (University of Melbourne – see his blog The AI Revolution), also raised questions about the implications, risks and potential for researchers. While noting that gen AI is extraordinary, he stressed that we don’t yet have all the answers to “the critical question of what it will mean to be AI literate”, which will involve ongoing discussions.

Professor Jenny Dixon, in a University World News article, ‘Keeping human values at the heart of AI in higher education’, summarised key outcomes from the EI Symposium at McMaster.

An overriding sense of the meeting was that the human elements of connection, collaboration, and sharing best practice are critical in shaping how the network grapples with what will be transformational in future pedagogy and practice.

Higher Education institutions are uniquely placed to strongly influence global policies and practices on the use of AI and sharing knowledge across, and beyond, the U21 network will only accelerate understanding and adoption of best practice.

Impact Report 2023

HOT TOPICS IN HIGHER EDUCATION

3 Equity, Diversity, Inclusion During recent decades, equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) has become an increasingly important consideration in the Higher Education sector. There is positive momentum, and much work has been done to create new policy and frameworks, particularly regarding initiatives that ensure every student, regardless of their background, has equitable access to educational opportunities.

U21 has been steadily increasing its commitment to making international education more accessible for students from underrepresented backgrounds.

This was recognised in 2023 with a nomination to the QS Reimagine Education Awards for our project, Global Student – Accessible, Sustainable, Global Education For All. Networks such as U21 have an important role to play in

understanding and contextualising the wider picture of what participation looks like across varying geographies, and how this can best be encouraged in those students from marginalised backgrounds, as Amber Bartlett (U21 Global Education Projects Manager) has shared in the blog post, ‘Beyond Boundaries: Expanding Inclusion in Global Learning’.

Along with the network’s focus on students, Professor Paul Harpur (The University of Queensland) and Professor Robert Greenberg (University of Auckland) stress that staff are often overlooked when it comes to EDI. This is being addressed in the newly formed U21 Disabilities Community of Practice (CoP) that recognises the need to advocate for more tangible support for staff, both professional and academic.

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Impact Report 2023

2023

Spotlight 29th Member: Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia Since joining U21 in mid-2023, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has already been feeling the impact and making hugely positive contributions to the network.

UGM’s decision to join U21 reflects what they refer to as “a wider transformation of Indonesia’s Higher Education policies”. In recent decades, Indonesia’s Ministry of Education, Research, and Technology has urged universities to evolve into worldclass campuses operating on a global platform.

As one of the country’s leading universities, UGM believes in its “unique strengths and characteristics” which it brings to U21. At the same time, by joining the network UGM

hopes to increase its global visibility, and therefore promote more international research partnerships, student exchanges, and collaborative efforts to tackle global issues, in conjunction with U21.

“By joining hands with diverse partners, we will enrich our students with comprehensive skills to handle the future challenges in their profession. We decided to join U21 because we see this network as a fertile platform to expand existing collaborations and to catalyse new ideas and initiatives as the seeds of new partnerships.

We hope the network will lead to resource sharing and to improve the efficiency in achieving sustainable development goals.”

– Associate Professor Wiratni Budhijanto (Faculty of Engineering

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and Secretary, Directorate of Partnership and Global Relations, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia).

UGM has already felt the impact of membership: the Research Engagement Meeting has informed more efficient and realistic planning for UGM’s research roadmap. Additionally, they noted renewed motivation among researchers participating in the Mid-Career Research Programme and managerial leaders who will join the Global Leadership Programme next year.

Since joining the network, UGM has recorded 11 renewal/new memorandums of understanding and memoranda of agreement with other U21 members, including The University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow,

Impact Report 2023

2023

Spotlight University of Birmingham, Lund University, National University of Singapore, University of Hong Kong, University College of Dublin, University of Melbourne, and Korea University.

UGM has also taken a lead on facilitating online meetings for the alumni of U21 programmes (Research Engagement Meeting, Mid-Career Researcher Programme, and Global Leadership Programme) to initiate new connections and expand existing collaborations.

“Starting from these small groups of top-notch researchers and leaders, we expect that UGM’s international performance indicators will significantly increase”, says Wiratni Budhijanto.

In addition to this, they are seeking to match similar funding from other U21 members, especially for initiating joint proposals, joint research and joint publications.

UGM has been very active in attending in-person leadership events including: • U21 2023 Presidential Symposium and AGM (at The University of Queensland, Australia, April) • U21 Research Engagement Meeting in Zurich (September) • Senior Leaders’ Meeting in NUS Singapore (October) As well as participating in these events, UGM has been highly engaged in programmes such as the Mid-Career Researcher Programme (with 6 participants from UGM joining the online training) and making a variety of submissions for the U21 Awards, Student Reference Group, and AGM Symposium in Hong Kong next year.

Michael Grove, Professor of Mathematics and Mathematics Education and DPVC Education Policy and Academic Standards at the University of Birmingham

In 2014, Professor Michael Grove was allocated funding by his home institution, the University of Birmingham, to undertake a U21 fellowship at the University of British Columbia (a former U21 member). Spending two weeks at UBC’s Centre for Learning, Teaching and Technology, was, as he says, “very impactful” on his career trajectory, leading to both a new outlook in his approach to scholarship and future roles in educational leadership.

The structured and widerange nature of the academic programme, generously organised by colleagues at British Columbia, allowed for “a range of impactful interactions with many like-minded individuals”, with whom Michael Grove could share good practice and develop future ideas, all whilst gaining “external validation” for his work. As he says, “U21 enables

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like-minded individuals to get together and inspire meaningful and long-term change”.

Exposed to a different culture and approaches to actionbased research and scholarship, centred on the integrated vision of education and research that existed at British Columbia, particularly through the Carl Weiman Science Education Initiative (which ran between 2007 and 2017), the trip helped him develop and shape his approach to educational leadership, as well as identifying new and innovative approaches, for example in relation to assessment, which he then sought to embed into practice when back in Birmingham.

Following his visit, Michael Grove latterly assumed responsibility for overseeing all aspects of the School of Mathematics’ teaching and learning provision as Deputy Head of School. Since his appointment as Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor for Education Policy and Academic Standards in 2023, he has developed policy, practice and pedagogy relating to the use of generative artificial intelligence (genAI) within Higher Education. Emphasising the “great value and potential in the U21 network because of collective and international expertise” he recognises the need for members to work together to address global challenges and explore innovative opportunities, including the impact of AI on teaching and learning.

Impact Report 2023

2023

Engagement 2023 marked a full return to in-person events, following online-only engagement during the global pandemic years. Among those attending our meetings, workshops and symposia was our newest member, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Indonesia. Our focus on addressing shared challenges and new innovations in education shaped discussions about sustainability, AI, online assessments and internationalisation at both network-organised events, and a number of external conferences, which are presented in the next few pages.

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Impact Report 2023

AGM and Presidential Symposium (April)

Senior Leaders Meeting (October)

The University of Queensland

National University of Singapore

28 MEMBERS ATTENDED

27 MEMBERS ATTENDED

Educational Innovation Symposium (June)

Researcher Engagement Meeting (September)

McMaster University

University of Zurich

20 MEMBERS ATTENDED

24 MEMBERS ATTENDED

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Impact Report 2023

Senior Leaders’ Meeting October, National University of Singapore At the first bi-annual Senior Leaders’ meeting since the pandemic, we shared responses to, and exchanges about, the climate crisis and the intersection between sustainability and internationalisation. We took this opportunity to explore in detail how we might implement the newly agreed Commitment to Sustainability.

The meeting also offered a valuable platform where members examined how we can further embed equity, diversity and inclusion across the network. Two working groups have been established to progress network focus and action around EDI and sustainability.

Held at the National University of Singapore, members were also able to see first hand how NUS is addressing sustainability and climate action issues through academic entrepreneurship and innovative adaptations of buildings to improve their environmental performance.

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Impact Report 2023

I loved the format of having plenty of time for deep dive conversations, working on actual ideas and ways forward. It’s probably been the most valuable trip for me this year, as I have taken away a lot of new ideas and narratives from the exchange with other Senior Leaders around sustainable internationalisation, and at the same time managed to tick off lots of bilateral business with U21 partner universities.

Ms Katja DurkinSommerhalder (Head of Global Affairs, University of Zurich)

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Impact Report 2023

Researcher Engagement Meeting September, The University of Zurich Research-intensive universities are navigating the rapidly changing landscape of AI without a guidebook. Meeting face-to-face for the first time, our three stakeholder groups focused on the impact of AI in the world of research.

Professor Justin Zobel, pictured, (Pro Vice-Chancellor for Graduate and International Research, University of Melbourne) was invited to give the keynote address about the potential, implications and risks of AI in research.

Following this address, attendees met in their respective groups: Research Leaders, Deans and Directors of Graduate Studies and the Research Collaboration Group, as well as joining each day for panel discussions and workshops.

Plenary and panel sessions allowed for explorations into the intricate interplay between the impact and influence of AI in research, the opportunities and challenges presented by regional funding and research alliances, and the imperative of fostering knowledge co-creation and engagement with industry, communities, and citizens.

Research Leaders shared challenges and strategies for success in research leadership and explored a series of member case studies focusing on the drivers and tensions between commercialisation, innovation and intellectual property faced by research-intensive institutions.

The Deans and Directors of Graduate Studies (DDOGs) discussed training and development for effective PhD supervision and mentorship, sharing best practice

and discovering new strategies for developing supervisors, along with fostering global collaboration and cooperation for graduate researchers.

The Research Collaboration Group (RCG) explored how institutions create inclusive research environments to support researcher pathways from diverse backgrounds. They shared insights on the spectrum of perspectives and interpretations of research impact – what this is, how it is measured and what barriers and enablers exist to drive impactful research – from across the member institutions and countries.

Research leaders also explored how networks can be leveraged to enhance overall research performance. They agreed to develop a proposal for a U21 ‘Grand Challenge’ collaborative research project, which is now being scoped and will include all three stakeholder groups.

Universities must work closely with industry, government and communities in order to harness the research power inherent in rapidly growing technologies. Underpinning this meeting was the driving imperative to ‘co-create’ the future.

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“It was really beneficial for me to meet and spend quality time with such a collaborative group. I was also delighted to meet some of the people I have been in touch virtually and also new members. This was my first real interaction with U21 and I am delighted it was so positive and welcoming! My metric is always in relation to learning new things and this was achieved!”

Dipti Pandya (Senior Manager, Research Programmes, University College Dublin)

Impact Report 2023

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Impact Report 2023

Educational Innovation Symposium Scoping the future in Higher Education: Transition or Transformation?

June, McMaster University With the experience of the pandemic behind us, many argue that now is the time for long-lasting transformation of the Higher Education sector. This embraces critical issues for teaching and learning such as rethinking curriculum, assessment practices, and the advent of AI. During three days of intensive and engaging discussion, members explored these issues in depth, sharing knowledge as we prepare collectively for a very

different future. The meeting at McMaster University was the first time that U21 Educational Leaders had met in-person for four years.

We invited artist Emma Richard to capture and synthesise the outcomes of discussion into easy-to-understand visuals; working in real time, she created the following graphic summaries during the Symposium:

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Impact Report 2023

ENGAGEMENT 21

Impact Report 2023

I am involved in the Digital Transformation Task Force at Waseda University.

Participating in this event made me realise that the people in charge of Innovative Education at U21 universities are considering the same thing we discussed at the task force meeting. From these things, it will be possible to promote Digital Transformation at my university more proactively by referring to the cases of other universities.

Professor Yuseke Morita (Faculty of Human Sciences School of Sciences, Waseda University)

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Impact Report 2023

It was very helpful in hearing different perspectives on specific topics and in getting feedback on our case studies.

It helps to take a helicopter view on educational evolutions that helps within the own institution to pave the way.

Anneleen Cosemans (Co-Manager of the Educational Policy Unit, KU Leuven)

The primary benefit of the event was the networking and dialogue with colleagues in-person. This was invaluable, particularly following the pandemic.

Aine Galvin (Director of Teaching and Learning, University College Dublin)

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Impact Report 2023

2023

Extending Our Reach

Connecting with my U21 peers during the APAIE breakfast provided a powerful opportunity of creativity and collaboration, sparking innovative ideas and driving change.

Guido de Wilde (Manager Global Student Experience and Engagement, University of Amsterdam)

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In addition to hosting our own events, we participated in several international education conferences.

This enabled us to participate in important Higher Education conversations occurring across the global sector. These conferences, including Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE), European Association for International Education (EAIE) and the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) also provided an opportunity to engage with our members attending these events and collaborate in joint presentations.

With a focus on developing the future sustainability of international education, APAIE provided an opportunity to share our paper, ‘Developing student change makers: the role of innovative programmes’.

Co-delivered with Common Purpose, Professor Ian Holliday (Hong Kong University) and two U21 students, we presented our experiences and insights into students as strong advocates for societal change, who are seeking transferable skills for diverse careers.

Themed ‘Connecting currents’, EAIE’s 2023 programme brought the international education community together to connect on a variety of key topics including students’ engagement in international opportunities, to which we are firmly committed.

Impact Report 2023

The U21 EAIE reception provided an exceptional platform for exchanging ideas and sharing insights from the thought-provoking sessions earlier in the day. Furthermore, it offered a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues in person and learn about their work at their institutions. Meeting face-to-face like this also helps pave the way for discovering more possibilities for collaboration and enhancing communication in existing partnerships.

Isabelle Nilsson (International Officer, Lund University)

For the first time, we also held member receptions at both conferences, allowing for more peer-to-peer networking opportunities. 19 members attended our APAIE Breakfast Meeting, and 14 members attended the Reception at EAIE. In addition, we hosted a reception at the Times Higher Education World Academic Summit in Sydney.

Looking ahead, we will be presenting at and hosting an event at APAIE 2024 and are seeking to share our collective expertise through external-facing presentations, with a focus on developing our international thought leadership.

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In November, several U21 Senior leaders attended ARUA’s biennial conference held on African Higher Education in Lagos, Nigeria. Ylva RodnyGumede (University of Johannesburg), Ann Kristen Wallengren (Lund University), Bonny Ibhawoh (McMaster University), Rachel Sandison (University of Glasgow) and Provost Jenny Dixon presented either in-person or virtually on U21 activities and respective institutional collaborations with African universities.

These examples showcased possibilities for further U21-ARUA engagement.

Impact Report 2023

2023

Spotlight Shoutao Wu, Social Innovation Researcher, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University alumnus Shoutao Wu is currently undertaking an MFA Design for Responsible Innovation at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. It was his recent completion of two U21 Sustainable Micro-internships that had “a huge impact” on his decision to embark on this specific programme and develop a more global orientation with a focus on sustainability.

While an undergraduate at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, undertaking a B.E. in Industrial Design, Shoutao Wu undertook two U21 Sustainable Microinternships. Joining students from across the world, and with a range of backgrounds, from archaeology to architecture, they

had “one common purpose” – to research gender equality, and the ways in which Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights can be improved for women and girls in conflict areas. A brand new area for him, he found it a “very inspiring experience” during which he “learned a lot.”

It also, importantly, introduced him to the concept of the sustainable development goals, changing the course of his career, as he has since recognised: “U21 brought me a calling card, and the desire to work on sustainable development goals. It really shaped my view on college education as well as my career”.

He now intends to work in industry on the reduction of carbon emissions, putting

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sustainable goals into practice, and with immediate plans to minor in Global Study next year.

The Sustainable Microinternships also showed him the “beauty of interdisciplinary approaches to work and design”.

As an industrial designer, it has reinforced his desire to collaborate with people across sectors, sharing skills to tackle urgent global problems.

Looking ahead, Shoutao Wu is keen to “keep conversations going with U21”, particularly given the impact of the programmes on his career and desire to make a real difference as a change maker and advocate for societal change, committed to innovation that meets sustainable goals on a global scale.

Impact Report 2023

2023

Spotlight Priyasha Sharma, Masters student in Prosperity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, and University of Delhi alumna

Participating in various programmes offered by Universitas 21 over the years has profoundly influenced Priyasha Sharma’s journey into the sustainability realm.

Priyasha Sharma is currently pursuing a Masters in Prosperity, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship in the UK, a choice directly influenced by the foundational insights and passions nurtured through U21’s online student programmes.

The virtual nature of these opportunities made them accessible to her while she was studying at the University of Delhi.

Having completed a U21 Sustainable Micro-internship, Priyasha Sharma counts this as “a transformative experience” which has significantly contributed to her professional

development, allowing her to gain skills in problemsolving, critical thinking, and teamwork. Part of a group project consulting for Lang Tengah Turtle Watch, this project reinforced her interest in impact consulting but also “opened her eyes to the nuanced factors influencing organisational operations”, further shaping her career trajectory.

An added benefit of U21 has been “interacting with individuals from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds” via the Global Citizens Programme.

As she says, “It provided me with a broader worldview and an appreciation for different perspectives on sustainability.

These interactions have not only enhanced my interpersonal skills but also allowed me to understand the global scope of sustainability challenges.”

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It was the Global Citizens Programme, in particular, that “deeply resonated” with her, strengthening a commitment to creating a global social impact: “My aspiration is to make a lasting positive impact on our global family, initially through impact consulting in healthcare and technology to gather experience, and eventually by launching my own initiative when the time is right. U21 reinforced my goals by emphasising the significant impact one can make both individually and collaboratively, further cementing my path towards making a meaningful difference.”

The diverse interactions and insights gained through these virtual platforms influenced her decision to pursue a Master’s degree abroad. Engaging with participants from various countries online, she developed a deeper appreciation for international education and career paths.

“Participation in U21’s global learning programs significantly enhanced my global mindset, crucial for addressing sustainability issues.

These experiences have been instrumental in my Master’s, where I continue to apply these insights. It’s enriched my understanding and approach to studies and will be vital in my future career in impact consulting, where empathy and broad perspectives are key.”

Impact Report 2023

2023

Collaboration 2023 saw increased collaboration between U21 members, with the development of several new strategic projects and Communities of Practice groups. It also marked the beginning of a wider networkto-network partnership between U21 and ARUA (African Research Universities Alliance), as we seek to utilise our research strengths globally.

In the annual U21 Awards, we recognised and celebrated the best in international collaboration across the network.

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Impact Report 2023

Transforming Assessment Project In an era dominated by rapid technological advancements, universities face the challenge of adapting to the age of AI. The pandemic has only accelerated such changes, including the use of online assessments, as discussed at this year’s U21 educational Innovation Symposium (see page 20).

Wider conversations about the ethical use of genAI have occurred between Senior Leaders and within the Student Experience cluster, where concerns have been raised about the potential impacts of digital assessments on mental health of students and staff.

A culmination of these events, the Transforming Assessment Project has been launched this year by Professor Joanne Wright (University of Sydney), Will Hopwood (University of Nottingham) and Martina Pittius (Shanghai Jiao Tong University).

Brought together by U21, they are leading activity which cuts across student experience, research, academia, and professional services,

as AI is already impacting every area of the university.

Since launching in September, the team has interviewed and collected 11 written and video case studies from members who have presented on their approaches to using AI. Currently collating responses, and analysing key themes, from Educational leaders, lecturers and professional service staff, they will re-interview respondees in another six months.

A real benefit of the project is this live approach and dynamic methodology, which is essential given the pace of technological changes. Rather than waiting for conclusions months down the line, the team is focused on constantly learning, sharing updates, analysis, questions and developments, and starting conversations where there aren’t always answers yet.

The team has also been connecting members who could benefit from collaborating on shared challenges, while harnessing the enormous potential of AI for good.

Members who have contributed information, resources and case studies to the project: The University of Hong Kong, University of Sydney, University of Glasgow, Lund University, University of Johannesburg, Tecnológico de Monterrey, UC Davis, University of Melbourne, University of Maryland, University of Birmingham, The University of Queensland, University College Dublin, The University of Edinburgh, McMaster University, University of Zurich.

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Change is very rapid and institutions can very early be left behind. But we have institutions across the globe and one of the advantages of U21 is that we have an academic year running all the time, so we can share good practice all year round. We are therefore well positioned to learn.

It is really important that U21 turns AI into an opportunity and given the collective expertise in developing and managing AI in an ethical manner, this means that we can ensure it becomes a force for good, and for everyone.

Professor Joanne Wright (Deputy Vice-Chancellor {Education}, University of Sydney)

Impact Report 2023

COIL: Collaborative Online

International Learning Object-based-learning through campus museums and galleries has been shown to be an effective Teaching and Learning environment for students to develop capabilities, including lateral and creative thinking, and collaborative group work skills.

The demand for an internationalisation of curriculum has simultaneously prompted investigation into the expansion of the campus museum learning environment into virtual spaces, where students can access global resources, interact with global peers and learn from global experts.

Adopting this innovative approach to interdisciplinary teaching and learning, the U21 Educational Innovation subgroup Learning Across the Curriculum Through Campus Museums and Galleries has initiated a new Global Classroom project, led by Dr Heather Gaunt (The University of Melbourne) with a team of museum professionals and academic experts across three U21 university sites, including Singapore and Hong Kong.

Key goals include: the development of more capable health professionals in the areas of health advocacy and

global leadership, the deepening of students’ intercultural understanding capabilities, and positioning at the forefront of international cultural curriculum development.

The project has been made possible by the vital support of U21.

Not only did the idea emerge directly from the U21 Educational Innovation subgroup, but it has been supported all the way by senior U21 colleagues.

The US$10k seed funding received from U21 in 2023 will directly support multiple elements of the project delivery, focused on the pilot Global Classroom module stage: these include financial incentives for up to 60 students across three university sites to participate in the pilot seminars and focus groups; employing a Research Assistant to support logistics; buying out some of the time of the lead team; and contribution to digital asset creation.

The project will also allow universities to share innovations and expertise in best practice delivery of museum and gallery objects for Teaching and Learning, as well as research, purposes, including photogrammetry of collection items.

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We definitely couldn’t undertake the work without this crucial U21 funding, alongside innovation funding and support from our local universities.

Dr Heather Gaunt (Senior Academic Programs Curator, Museums and Collections Department, The University of Melbourne)

Impact Report 2023

ARUA-U21

Partnership In 2022, we launched our first network-to-network partnership with the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA).

Its purpose is to offer opportunities for and support research collaboration between our respective members.

It also enables U21 to extend its reach in Africa through the ARUA network of 19 African universities.

This year we ran a strongly-contested funding round for early career researchers in the SDG areas of food security, climate and development, and water. Five projects totalling US$75K were awarded, marking the first joint initiative of the ARUA-U21 partnership, to teams involving at least one university from each network.

These projects are underway with an 18-month deadline of early 2025.

Communities of Practice Self-managed, collaborative initiatives, U21’s ‘Communities of Practice’ (CoP), provide a route for staff within the network to gain new professional perspectives, share ideas and resources and make important global links by connecting with international peers operating in shared disciplines and areas of work. During 2023, several current CoP groups not only expanded, but worked towards major publications and in-person symposia, while a new Disabilities group was formed.

International conferences and platforms are really helpful for students like us to broaden our knowledge. They open up your mind.

Sewika Sulpe (Master’s Student, School of Public Health, University of Maryland)

You’ve got the opportunity to listen to all these different perspectives, and it helps you build ideas, especially now as I’m trying to think of topics for my own dissertation.

Alice Yan (Doctoral Student, School of Public Health, University of Maryland)

COLLABORATION 31

Impact Report 2023

U21 Health Research Exchange One of the greatest global healthcare challenges of our time is finding ways to incentivise providers to offer coordinated healthcare models, particularly given the impacts of Covid. Through the CoP Health Research Exchange (U21HREx), researchers, staff and students have started to address this challenge, among others, with the goal of improving population health at large, with a focus on groups that would traditionally be marginalised or underserved.

Collaborating since 2020, the active network has been facilitating shared training, online workshops, virtual networking, and knowledge exchange via an online portal which can act as a resource bank. However, having transitioned to a larger Community of Practice this year, 2023 has also seen the development of joint programmes, physical visits, professional development talks and opportunities, and the delivery of 2 major events.

In 2023, U21HREx facilitated a reciprocal exchange, about which Jennifer Knights (Postgraduate Reseacher, University of Birmingham) has written a blog post, ‘Transatlantic Connections: Reflections on the U21 Health Research Exchange’.

Two research symposia – held at the University of Maryland School Health and the University of Birmingham – provided faculty

members and students from the University of Maryland, University of Birmingham and University College Dublin with the opportunity to discuss global healthcare challenges, share research and experiences, and tour medical centres.

The two events resulted in increased collaboration, joint academic initiatives, mentorship, and career development opportunities particularly for underrepresented students, ECRs, faculty, and staff across institutions.

More broadly, members and participants have expressed appreciating hearing international perspectives on research and public health as it prepares them for the real world.

UMD students have shared their experience from the latest U21HREx Symposium held at the University of Birmingham: HREX 2023 Recap (youtube.com).

You can watch UMD students share their experience from the symposium held at the University of Birmingham here.

Overall, U21’s impact has been very large. We have transitioned to a larger Community of Practice and have moved to the point of individuals wanting to develop projects together, meet in person, collaborate, and meet with respective hospital systems across countries to scope long-term projects.

Dr. Negin Fouladi (University of Maryland, U21HREx Chair)

Members: University of Maryland, University of Birmingham, University College Dublin

COLLABORATION 32

Impact Report 2023

Social Work The Social Work Community of Practice now has members from 17 U21 members across ten countries. Alongside understanding the context, challenges and opportunities of social work education and research in our different systems, the CoP has been able to connect academics with common areas of interest and facilitate meetings between colleagues who are attending the same conferences.

This has led for example, to CoP members (University of Birmingham

and University of New South Wales) being commissioned to edit the first international research handbook in leadership in social care and social work (with contributions from McMaster University and University of Maryland), and University of Birmingham to write a UK based text on strengths-based practice in adult social work and social care.

This will include contributions from U21 members including McMaster University, University of Johannesburg, Lund University on learning from their countries).

Going forward, we are planning a virtual conference in 2024 under the theme of Social Work Responding to Global Challenges coordinated by The University of Edinburgh and will be building further links based on a survey of members by University of Johannesburg of their individual research interests.

Professor Robin Miller (Director of Global Engagement for the College of Social Sciences, University of Birmingham)

COLLABORATION 33

Members: University of Melbourne, University of New South Wales, The University of Queensland, McMaster University, Fudan University, University of Hong Kong, University of Delhi, University College Dublin, University of Auckland, National University of Singapore, University of Johannesburg, Lund University, University of Connecticut, University of Maryland, University of Birmingham, The University of Edinburgh, University of Nottingham.

Impact Report 2023

Disability Champions of Change In 2022, Professor Robert Greenberg (University of Auckland) and Professor Paul Harpur (The University of Queensland) led the formation of a new U21 Disabilities Communities of Practice. Emerging from Paul Harpur’s disability rights advocacy and research, as well as Robert Greenberg’s work in policy development, it is aimed at university staff who live with a disability or those who champion workplace ability equity in U21 members.

Their aim is to address policies and approaches relevant to issues such as how members promote awareness of the capacity and success of academic, professional and administrative staff with disabilities, and how universities support the career pathways of university staff as they seek to advance through the ranks to levels such as director, professor, dean, and other senior leadership roles.

Robert Greenberg and Paul Harpur are agreed that while EDI is often well-developed for students, there is still an issue of disabled staff members not feeling comfortable in disclosing their disabilities to HR, colleagues and managers, knowing how and when

to ask for help, and being fairly employed or promoted.

The pair were, therefore, motivated to establish a network to allow more open conversations, especially with senior leaders. Given the nature of the network, they are addressing global problems, such as technology accessibility, as well as attitudes that vary across different cultures, from Asia to the US. They are also working towards policy and resources, which are needed around the development of reasonable accommodation, with a focus on staff requirements.

Both feel that the support of U21 sends a strong, impactful message and provides a positive example for the wider Higher Education sector.

Members: National University of Singapore, University of Auckland, University of Birmingham, University of Hong Kong, The University of Queensland, University of Sydney.

COLLABORATION 34

The visible presence of disability in U21’s global network is hugely impactful as it proves that universities are serious about EDI beyond creation policy. When senior leaders are committed to EDI, there is hugely positive impact; it gives members license to get results.

Professor Paul Harpur (The University of Queensland)

The mere fact that U21, a global network, has embraced this CoP, and given us visibility, is significant and trailblazing.

To convert the hearts and minds of people, you have to be present and visible. Colleagues learn by interacting with disabled people, and see what is possible.

Professor Robert Greenberg (University of Auckland)

Impact Report 2023

THE

Awards 2023 The U21 Awards is an annual chance to recognise, reward, celebrate and publicise the achievements of individuals or teams whose work has upheld and has furthered the network’s principles of internationalisation.

Announced during our Annual Network Meeting in May, the 2023 winners were selected by a panel of U21’s Senior Leaders as having made an outstanding contribution to internationalisation in global Higher Education.

For the first time, following feedback from our members at the AGM, the U21 Leaders of the Future award also honoured two recipients – one a current student at a member institution, the other a recent graduate – who are making an impact and leading change in their communities.

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Impact Report 2023

U21 Awards – 2023 winners

ACFAM (African Caribbean Faculty Association of McMaster) McMaster University, Canada Founded 12 years ago, ACFAM represents faculty members from across the African and Caribbean Diaspora. They recognise and seek to address the under-representation of Black thought, research, and teaching at their institutions.

The Association has addressed the vital importance of advancing equity in teaching and learning, developing the diversity of voices that the global Higher Education community needs, and becoming a hub for university partnerships and networks.

A wide programme of action has included the creation of a Black Student Success Centre offering wellness, scholarly and financial support in 2021. Their track record of successful programmes and commitment to inclusion is highly deserving of celebration.

The U21 award affirms the value of equity and inclusive excellence in Higher Education. ACFAM’s initiatives at McMaster University have benefited from the support of the University’s administration, faculty, staff, and students who share a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusivity on our campus. The U21 award is a validation of our collective efforts, and we hope it will encourage similar initiatives at other U21 institutions.

Professor Bonny Ibhawoh (McMaster University)

COLLABORATION 36

Impact Report 2023

Dr. Miriam Moeller - The University of Queensland, Australia As a researcher in the field of global mobility, Dr. Miriam Moeller was commended for her culture-specific approach to supporting students to seek an international education. Miriam has co-created and actively led the UQ Business School’s Rapid Acculturation Mateship Program supporting international students’ transition from abroad

to local postgraduate study and life in Australia. Since 2014, approximately 2,650 students have benefited from her approach. Through an unwavering focus on removing barriers and delivering authentic learning experiences, Dr. Moeller has been able to broaden the global horizons of many, as she speaks about in this short film.

COLLABORATION 37

Impact Report 2023

Leaders of the Future 2023 Winners

Juan Ramón Lara Mora Tecnólogio de Monterrey, Mexico Juan Ramón Lara Mora is a current student at U21 member, Tecnólogio de Monterrey. As he studied, Juan realised that the benefits of quality education could be shared with those from underprivileged communities in Mexico. Building up a network of professionals from more than 100 different career paths, his social enterprise ‘Decidiendo un Futuro’ (Deciding a Future) helps young people to develop their career paths with the use of technology and specialist guidance. The commitment to others and vision shown at such a young age truly impressed U21’s judging panel, composed of Senior Leaders from member institutions.

John Zimba

University of Glasgow, UK

Founder of the Chiparamba Trust, John Zimba has been leading change in Zambia within the field of Education, breaking down barriers for marginalised young people and women in rural areas with no access to education. Awarded a Chevening Scholarship to complete the MSc Young People, Social Inclusion and Change at the University of Glasgow in 2016, John has used

the skills and knowledge gained through this programme to directly benefit young people in his home country of Zambia.

Drawing on networks created during his study to keep in contact with alumni and promote the concept of volunteerism amongst his network, John Zimba has shown substantial commitment to empowering others through education. Mechanisms developed

by John Zimba’s work have now allowed over 5,000 children to benefit from an education.

Winning this award has been a “Milestone achievement” for John Zimba who says that it is “such recognition” that gives him “the energy and drive to soldier on”.

You can watch his full acceptance speech here.

COLLABORATION 38

Being a U21 Award Winner is a testament to dedication and innovation, a recognition that fuels the passion for shaping a better tomorrow. The impact of this honour, both immediate and enduring, ignites a sense of responsibility to push boundaries, inspire change, and forge impactful connections not only in my university but globally. The recognition within my university helped me to empower my vocational guidance project to help more young people in Mexico to design a life plan and find the tools to define their reason for being.

Juan Ramón Lara Mora

Impact Report 2023

2023

Programmes Once again, U21 staff, students, and researchers at member universities have connected, collaborated and developed their international skills through a range of diverse programme activity, both in-person and online. 2023 included a return of the Mid-Career Researcher Programme, and continued with Global Leadership and various Global Student initiatives, including the Sustainable Micro-Internships, Global Citizens and RISE Showcase and Awards, allowing participants to develop a more international perspective in their work, research and study.

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Impact Report 2023

U21 Mid-Career Researcher Programme:

Reset, Re-imagine, Reframe The second iteration of the U21 Programme aimed specifically at mid-career researchers (MCRs) ran for five weeks, in partnership with Common Purpose. After the flux of recent years, the programme provided an opportunity to refocus and reset, and identify the skills and attributes required to thrive within a creative and collaborative research culture.

In 2023, 90% of those nominated took part and 80% of those who

took part completed it, with much of the feedback emphasising the motivational aspects of the programme, as well as the benefits of conversations with a cohort of diverse and supportive international peers. Participants also appreciated access to an environment which allowed for reflections to be transformed into tangible action plans that could directly benefit their careers.

The programme made me re-think how I have been doing things in my professional life, especially on the research side.

We just didn’t just talk about what you need to do in order to be successful but we also examined some of the preparatory steps that you need to take to get there.

This includes how to have a growth mindset, how to deal with challenges and how to set up successful collaborations. By far the most important aspect of the programme was the chance to talk to and learn from your peers. We had several opportunities to talk about the challenges that we face as researchers and together we drew up plans on how to approach them.

I also developed new contacts through the programme which will be useful in my career.

Abel Chikanda (Associate Professor, School of Earth Environment and Society, McMaster University)

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Impact Report 2023

The materials in the course did motivate me to hit the “reset” button on my research practice and reframe my purpose and career goals.

I now feel in a better place to initiate new research collaborations with confidence and in a spirit of open communication.

Alistair Hunter (Senior Lecturer in Health and Social Policy, School of Interdisciplinary Studies, University of Glasgow)

Questions about (interdisciplinary) collaboration and career development, as well as leadership and values are high on my agenda currently and I was feeling lonely in trying to figure out what the problems are and how to go forward – I was basically lacking the theory. This programme was like a gift from above, targeting exactly the matters I was contemplating about. I will leave this programme with much more awareness, inspiration, and confidence.

Marja-Liisa Öberg (Associate Professor of EU Law, Lund University)

One of the benefits of the programme to me was to hear that other people at my career level also have similar challenges and experiences as me. It didn’t matter from where everyone was but it was reassuring to hear the same challenges we are all experiencing.

It was also great to discuss those challenges with people who can directly relate to them.

The programme also gave me the opportunity to really take a moment and reflect how I have been managing these important issues like risk taking, collaboration, communication etc.

Melkem Kebede (Associate Professor, Head - Islet Biology and Metabolism Laboratory, University of Sydney)

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Impact Report 2023

Global Leadership programme In March 2023, U21 and Common Purpose partnered together to deliver the fourth Global Leadership programme to participants from U21 universities.

The programme brought together 113 high potential leaders from academic and professional disciplines, representing 25 of the 28 university members at that time. It was designed to develop the leadership skills that will help them thrive as leaders today and tomorrow, whilst offering opportunities to meet and collaborate with peers from across the U21 network. The programme explored two key themes: ‘Adaptive and Nimble’ and ‘Collaborative Mindset’ at a time when the Higher Education sector is undergoing digital transformation.

The feedback from participants showed that they found the programme to be incredibly valuable, they enjoyed the interactive format of the online course and the concepts presented were useful frameworks for them to reflect on their own leadership. Participants valued the opportunity to connect with their peers from across the network and many participants shared how committed they are to staying in touch with each other after the programme.

Facilitators were impressed with the participants’ level of engagement and commitment to making changes in their leadership, as evidenced by the production of high quality action plans and reflections.

I have learned to take calculated risks. I took a risk and applied for a senior position in an area I am really passionate about and I actually managed to excel and got the offer. I am so proud of myself.

I will be starting in my position on 1 August 2023.

Dr Angie Magabane, Project Manager, Division for Teaching Excellence, University of Johannesburg

The entire programme is rhythmic and delves gradually into the strengthening and application of leadership. I really enjoyed it and got a lot out of it, and even plan to share what the programme has inspired me to do with my students in the classroom.

Participant, Fudan University

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When I began this programme I was keen to understand and gain a few practical skills to enhance my leadership. I have gained this and so much more! Firstly, I gained a better understanding of the Higher Education context and challenges facing universities.

It was refreshing to hear the similarities and challenges faced from my global peers and I took away learnings about needing to consider what different people value and being prepared to move forward even when things are uncertain.

Participant, The University of Queensland

Impact Report 2023

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countries

Global Leadership

25

The 113 participants made up a cohort representing:

universities

24

nationalities

92%

of participants felt the programme had been good value for their time

94%

of participants felt that they committed to actions for creating change in their leadership as a result of the programme

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Impact Report 2023

Sustainable Micro-internships From December 2022- February 2023 Common Purpose and U21 partnered to deliver six popular Sustainable Micro-internships, focused on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Based on member feedback that the connections of the U21 network should also be used to play a part in determining the content and delivery of the programme, numerous academics, including Professor Paul Harpur (The University of Queensland), led one of this year’s internships.

Participating U21 students were invited to attend two online workshops and address one challenge per group, over the course of 10 days.

The programme saw a high level of interest, with a total of 1,069 students signing up to attend from 28 universities. Of the 1,069 students that signed up, 587 participated in a Sustainable Micro-internship, and 463 completed the programme. Of those participating, 238 students had never travelled internationally for study or work and 214 students had no current plans to study abroad.

Internships were focused on 3 SDGs Good Health and Wellbeing SDG 3

Quality Education SDG 4

Reduced Inequalities SDG 10

Working with students from many different countries has given me new perspectives on how valuable different cultural perspectives are when approaching and solving problems...

Additionally, it has made me more appreciative of the hidden disabilities which people might be living with from a day-to-day basis, and more mindful of the way I conduct myself and make considerations for accessibility.

Student, The University of Melbourne

Health and wellbeing: Moving the Goalposts— supporting a Kenyan sport development organisation to embed mental health in their existing work.

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Impact Report 2023

Professor Paul Harpur, The University of Queensland – How can we find a common ground to promote disability inclusion across all of our member universities?

In his internship, Professor Paul Harpur invited students to think about issues facing disabled people. Students could choose to focus on one area, for example access to learning and information, intersectionality, student and staff recruitment. They were also required to consider the cultural differences across U21’s member universities, with the aims of creating a more diverse culture.

For the first time this year, students produced a poster and a written explanation of their idea along with their presentation, which were then shared with contributors.

“Students valued the creative element to the Sustainable Micro-internships and this is something we will continue

This programme encourages participants to apply critical thinking to solve complicated problem while also collaborating with peers from all over the globe.

Student, National University of Singapore

This micro-internship was highly insightful, and I would love to participate in another course. to do going forward”, say Common Purpose.

Participants that completed the Sustainable Microinternship in full were eligible to earn a Leading Change microcredential by writing a short reflective piece, answering the question, “How are you going to implement your learning from the programme in your life, studies and leadership ahead?”.

Student, University of Auckland

In this micro-internship, I was able to learn about some practical issues about disabilities. Compared with the theoretical knowledge learned in school, I think this internship is very important.

Student, University of Birmingham

Thank you for this programme, it was a really valuable experience and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Student, University of California, Davis

Disability Inclusion: Ideas for increased Disability Inclusion in universities from participants in Professor Paul Harpur’s Microinternship.

Reduced Inequalities: Students from around the world provided innovative ideas for Girls for Girls (G4G) in Uganda.

Quality Education: Supporting The Key Education Foundation to transform Early Childhood Education in India.

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Working with students from different universities all over the world has been a valued experience to me.

Student, The University of Melbourne

Impact Report 2023

RISE

Showcase and Awards RISE (Real Impact on Society and Environment) is U21’s international showcase of student social entrepreneurs’ achievement in sustainability and social innovation. It is designed to accelerate the scale and impact of student-led projects by connecting them with a network of experts in academia and industry.

In 2023, we were proud to identify a new group of winners who have displayed remarkable creativity and compassion while implementing change in the world around them, each with strong ties to the SDGs on food security, mental health and wellbeing.

Each winning project was awarded US$2K seed funding to further develop activity and sustainable impact.

RISE Awards – 2023 winners Most Innovative

Nepri

Launched by Erik Karlsson, Edith Hammer, and Pelle Ohlsson of Lund University, Sweden, Nepri provides early diagnostics on plant diseases that can cause devastating crop failures, with the potential to support farmers worldwide develop sustainable and high-yielding agriculture. The challenges associated with feeding a growing population have led to increasing use of heavy chemical pesticides

that cause environmental and health damage, yet 20 – 40% of all yields are still lost to plant disease, a situation that costs the world up to US$220bn per year.

Manual crop inspections are ineffective and rely on visible symptoms, yet Nepri can identify disease-causing soil microbes with a ‘lab on a chip’ installation paired with automated image recognition software to identify areas of decay. This inspiring application of technology has the potential to be revolutionary for global crop health and food security.

Winning the Most Innovative project for the U21 RISE Awards is fantastic news and energises us to keep up the good work in our journey ahead.

Our upcoming focus lies on technological development for improving chip performance, and in the long-run help agriculture become more sustainable and efficient worldwide.

Erik Karlsson (Lund University)

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Impact Report 2023

Most Impact

Celal-Mex

Celal-Mex is a biotechnology company developing environmentally-sustainable alternative products for the agricultural and industrial sectors, using a surprising source – organic pineapple waste. Oscar Martínez, Adolfo Vidal, and Eduardo Mendez from Mexico’s Tecnológico de Monterrey are the bright young

minds behind the business. More than 150,000 tons of waste from growing pineapples is created in just one year, which is costly and harmful to dispose of. By turning these by-products into compounds and materials like cellulose and starch which have other applications, CelalMex can support many other industries with their innovative offering. Packaging and auto parts are just two of the many applications for these recovered raw materials.

The next steps for Celal-Mex are to continue looking for capital to build the industrial plant and bring this environmental and social impact to all of Mexico, then we will start with new sources of raw materials such as agave, banana, and papaya residues, to finally start testing the world markets and introduce these raw materials in more industries. We are grateful for the opportunity with this first capital and we will continue working to make all of this a reality.

Eduardo Mendez (Tecnológico de Monterrey)

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Most Collaborative

LEAN Social

Ky Nam Nguyen, Fanyin Yang and Zi Hao Lam from the University of Hong Kong founded LEAN Social as a virtual work and study space that helps Gen Z students feel more productive and less lonely. Their study-streaming ecosystem is structured around practical incentives that support students with self-directed learning. Time spent on the site converts to tokens which can be exchanged for gift vouchers or educational experiences.

It’s such an honour to be recognised with the RISE award after over a year of hard work. In our journey, we have built a software platform and a community of thousands of youth who love our methods to stay productive. In the coming time, we will focus on improving user experience to better serve our youth audience needs and hopefully improved upon what we have learned so much on this journey.

Ky Nam Nguyen (University of Hong Kong)

Impact Report 2023

U21 Provost Award

Preventing Blindness with Space Medicine Technology

Preventable blindness is the cause being taken on by Ethan Waisberg of University College Dublin with his project ‘Preventing Blindness with Space Medicine Technology’. Around the world, one billion people already live with preventable visual impairment. With aging populations globally, novel methods of vision screening are increasingly needed, especially in developing countries that lack easy access to ophthalmic care. Building on previous NASAfunded work assessing astronauts’ vision in space, Ethan’s project uses low-cost Virtual Reality headsets combined with artificial intelligence to provide new possibilities for vision tests.

Most Potential

WISE Cities

Marie Brodsky and Katherine-Aria Close from the University of Maryland, United States, have created an accessible technology platform to help combat social isolation in elderly people. By connecting individuals to groups and resources local to them and removing technological barriers, the project hopes to combat the problem of social isolation. Their unique approach, which is multi-lingual and able to interact with voice assistance software and across different devices, has already been accepted by several national networks of organisations dedicated to tackling the issue.

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This prize will help cover my costs to travel to East Africa to test this vision assessment technology in a rural community eye care centre.

This technology provides new possibilities for eye screening in underserved communities, and I am excited to take this next big step thanks to your award.

Ethan Waisberg (University College Dublin)

Impact Report 2023

U21 shortlisted for QS Reimagine Education Awards Nomination for U21 Global Student

Accessible, Sustainable, Global Education For All QS Reimagine Education Awards serve as a prestigious platform to recognise and celebrate pioneers of education across the world, fostering a vibrant community of innovators committed to redefining learning and employability for future generations. The Awards honour the exceptional efforts of educators, institutions, and edtech startups in preparing learners for the challenges of the future.

U21 was shortlisted for the Access, Diversity & Inclusion Award category, which “rewards projects from innovators who, driven by a keen sense of social responsibility, are seeking to improve access to Higher Education for under-served, underprivileged and underrepresented students.”

Our nomination focused on U21 Global Student which, to date, has given access to global education to more than 11,000 students, worldwide, many of whom would or could not engage in traditional international mobility. The programme offers an interconnected suite of sustainably themed and delivered virtual student opportunities.

By providing online opportunities at scale across our expansive global network, U21 Global Student programmes are particularly focused on engaging students who would not or could not take part in traditional mobility opportunities.

Our programmes seek to engage and upskill sustainabilityconscious, global-minded future leaders. By opening access to students of any academic discipline, level and background, across the network’s globally dispersed universities, U21 seeks to facilitate and encourage cross-discipline, cross-border learning, connections and collaborations for any student.

U21 Global Student projects are entirely focused on the needs of these students as future global leaders and ensuring inclusion of all voices in creating sustainable global change.

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Impact Report 2023

We are exceptionally thankful to the U21 ecosystem and the National University of Singapore, who have helped tremendously.

We are also grateful to various team members at U21 who have helped us to connect with many different people as we kickstarted our initial stages of internationalisation.

2023

Spotlight

Qi Herng Kong

The Moonbeam Co, National University of Singapore alumni In 2021/22, Singaporean start-up The Moonbeam Co were awarded the title of ‘Most Innovative’ in the RISE Awards and Showcase. Since winning, the team have further committed to overcoming global inefficiencies in the management of food supply and waste as a means of meeting Sustainable Development Goal 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

The Moonbeam Co was founded by three U21 students from the National University of Singapore: Jia Wei Lim, Qi Herng Kong and Varden En Cheng Toh. Having connected over their “common interest in food, drinks and, most importantly, sustainability”, they decided to change the way that food waste is treated in Singapore, upcycling it to create

sustainable, consumer-packaged products, including beer and granola.

Continually learning, it was the impact of winning the RISE Award which first “affirmed” what the team were doing and “instilled confidence” as they assumed the great responsibility of tackling real-world, global issues. As a result of U21, their start-up’s vision also changed to “a much more global one.”

In 2023, Qi Herng Kong spent three months in the UK, taking part in an incubator to further the start-up, which allowed him to gain “a more international

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perspective.” Provost Jenny Dixon and U21 Manager, Global Education, Amber Bartlett, also spent time at the Moonbeam laboratory during a visit to Singapore, tasting various products and witnessing firsthand the impact of RISE on this innovative company, which was formally registered last year.

Presenting at the APAIE conference in 2023, Qi Herng Kong reflected on the important platform that U21 provided, allowing him “to connect with like-minded students who want to make a difference in the world.” As they look to the future, Moonbeam’s founders are keen to support other emerging U21 entrepreneurs, and give back to the global network which has aided their success.

Impact Report 2023

2023

Spotlight Dr. Christopher Haggarty-Weir, Biotech consultant and lecturer, The University of Queensland Biotech consultant and lecturer at The University of Queensland (UQ), Dr Christopher Haggarty-Weir has developed a Biobusiness mini-MBA programme for scientists, engineers, and doctors, citing U21 as “the inspiration” behind it.

It was during his Masters in Molecular Biology that Christopher Haggarty-Weir first heard about U21 and decided to apply for the joint doctoral programme, split between the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute, and the Universities of Melbourne and Edinburgh, due to its “interdisciplinary and inter-institute nature”. Although he had numerous offers on the table, he accepted this one as “it was more than just a PhD, it was strategically competitive”.

The PhD in molecular parasitology, structural vaccinology and biophysical chemistry in (2013-2017) more than lived up to Christopher Haggarty-Weir’s expectations.

Offering him the “whole package”, it allowed him to gain skills in a variety of fields, including business education and the philosophy of science, while he completed his doctoral research into malaria vaccine development.

During the PhD, he also interned for 16 months at Edinburgh Innovations, dealing with business development and the commercialisation of medical and biotech-related intellectual property, before going on to

work as a Venture Capital analyst for Seven Hills Venture Partners.

While undertaking research in Europe, he gained knowledge about UK and European intellectual property law, which he now teaches and guest lectures on.

Adopting the ultra-collaborative approach of the U21 PhD, he has avoided working in academic silos, and instead blended science, engineering and business together. As a lecturer at UQ in the world leading biotechnology programme, his goal is to “create a value proposition for future thought leaders in Biotech, integrating modern business into the course”. This ambition has led him to develop the hugely successful Biobusiness Workshop for scientists, engineers, and doctors, many of whom secure business-related roles upon completion.

He adds that “U21’s multicountry network has been really useful”, allowing him to work with clients and businesses across the world, from the Netherlands to the US, where he is a Professional Advisor at Massachusetts Institute of Technology. For Christopher Haggarty-Weir, it is “the global, collaborative and inter-disciplinary mentality of U21” that has been an “influence” on his dual career, as he continues to work at the intersection of life science consultancy and academia. He encourages others to “look to the U21 programme for their professional and personal development”, too.

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Impact Report 2023

Impact Report

2023

Conclusion One of the highlights for this year has been the coming together of our stakeholder groups to grapple with some of the existential issues of our time.

2023 has seen a renewed sense of energy, focus and direction for the network. As noted earlier, we revamped our network mission and principles, bringing a contemporary lens to the founding principles of internationalisation and collaboration. This work will continue into 2024 as we bring a new strategy for Presidents to review at the Annual Network Meeting taking place in April at the University of Hong Kong.

2023 also saw the network commit to direct and measurable impact in the areas of sustainability and equity, diversity, and inclusion.

As part of this, we were delighted to welcome our 29th member, Universitas Gadjah Mada (Yogyakarta, Indonesia) in August.

Its admission strengthens our global reach as a network as we focus on deepening our global partnerships, sharing best practice, and learning from each other.

One of the highlights for this year has been the coming together of our stakeholder groups to grapple with some of the existential issues of our time and to consider how as

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a network we might respond. These events have really highlighted the collaborative value of the network as a means of building trust, sharing knowledge and developing collective solutions. They have also exemplified the value of being part of a relatively small network with deep, purposeful and long-standing connections.

At the same time, we are considering how the network’s groups meet and interact in the future from a sustainability perspective. Accordingly, we are reducing the volume and frequency of face-to-face meetings in 2024 as we pilot a new approach to stakeholder engagement.

Another highlight this year has been our engagement with the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA), our only network to network partnership. The launch of the ARUA-U21 Early Career Researchers Awards is giving teams of early career researchers from U21 and ARUA opportunities to work collaboratively on issues addressing the Sustainable Development Goals of climate and development, water and food security.

Impact Report 2023

I would like to especially acknowledge our Presidents, Senior Leaders and others key stakeholders for their on-going commitment and engagement with the network. We really value your contributions and energies.

I would also like to commend the Provost and Secretariat in ensuring that the network’s activities and programmes are continually evolving to meet the needs of our members.

Finally, the global challenges we are all facing have probably never been so pressing.

Universities have a unique role in helping to find solutions through their core mission of education and research and, increasingly, knowledge diplomacy. Universitas 21, as a leading international network, provides a welcoming place whereby we can engage in a very collaborative way that transcends borders.

My very best wishes for a successful and productive 2024.

Professor Shearer West, Chair, Universitas 21

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Impact Report 2023

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