During phase I, we focused on addressing fundamental questions about our academic mission, focused on the three pillars of education and student experience, research and expertise, and societal and global engagement. From the results, we were able to draw out some key points:
- Pride that ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is a leading global university – and continued ambitions for reaching our full potential.
- Respondents want ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ to remain ‘curiosity driven’ and create space for ‘blue-sky research’.
- For signature issues, respondents want us to maintain a leading position in our research and consider major global issues like climate change.
- Sustainability should be explicitly referenced in the Strategy.
- Supporting our people, improving our infrastructure and investment in our systems are fundamental, as was creating a ‘culture of collaboration’ to help partnerships within ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and outside to grow.
- Strong desire to bolster our reputation and get ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ the recognition it deserves.
Statistics from the survey
During phase II, we sought feedback on the proposed vision, strategic drivers, reasons why people choose ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and future key challenges. From the results, we were able to draw out some key points:
The proposed vision:
- It should be distinctive, putting emphasis on ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ's USP(s) - e.g. STEMMB focus, depth and breadth of expertise, London, teaching methods and research-driven modules.
- World-leading should be featured, but ambition should be balanced with humility.
- Transformational thinking was also mentioned, together with the aim of making all people’s lives better globally.
- Collaboration was key for the vision; it should be clear that collaboration is happening internally and externally, and that ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ is an inspirational environment fostering togetherness.
Reasons why partners choose ³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ and why people choose to come here and stay:
- Depth and breadth of STEMMB expertise, reputation of having a can-do attitude, people, culture, interdisciplinarity, collaboration and opportunities.
Future key challenges:
- Inequalities and associated consequences, climate change, pandemics, AI, threats to democracy, preparedness to adapt and tackle future problems.