Being able to provide our Responsive Blended Learning (RBL) model of teaching has not only been necessary as we adapt to the global pandemic, it has also provided our students with the ability to continue their education wherever they are and to connect with staff colleagues. For those close to one of our campuses, it provides the choice of on-campus face-to-face connections alongside online. And for those not able to be on campus, being connected digitally means their studies can continue. As an international university, our global reach and connectivity have been strengthened by RBL, and our community spirit has been maintained (and even enriched in some aspects).

It has been a difficult week for universities in Scotland, Malaysia and UAE, with positive cases rising alongside more intensive testing. Whilst we have not experienced significant levels of positive cases at this time, we are not complacent. I know this is a worrying time for students and colleagues and we will continue to keep you informed of current case levels. From those universities showing high rates of positive cases, tracebacks indicate that the infection sites are not attributable to on-campus teaching. It is, therefore, vitally important that we continue to adhere to the safeguards put in place in our teaching spaces.

I have stated, in previous blogs, the importance of our Strategy 2025 in guiding us through difficult times. It provides the map that supports and focuses our decision-making, and gives us a common sense of purpose and direction. For this 2020/21 year, we are progressing specific actions and, over the coming weeks, colleagues will be sharing how things are going with these priorities, bringing strategy to action. By bringing this to life, we can see our future being shaped, and understand the part we all have to play in making it happen. This week, I spoke to Professor Dennis Wong, Deputy Provost at the Malaysia campus, to hear more about the success of the development of new approach to the Foundation programme, and to find out more about plans for a new University-wide ‘Heriot-Watt Student Award’ scheme. He also told me about how the Empower Programme is helping to build our Flourishing Community.

This has been a landmark week for Malaysia as the campus celebrates its 8th anniversary. A place that is incredible – not only in its physical campus and beautiful surroundings but also its connection with staff and students, even through the current challenges presented by the global pandemic.

In last week’s staff newsletter, I shared with you the new structure of the University Executive. As we progress with the reshaping, I would like to congratulate Ms Ruth Moir on her appointment as University Secretary. Ruth has been a valuable member of the University Executive in her role as Deputy Principal (International) and I welcome her continued involvement in the Executive in this new capacity.

October marks the start of Black History Month, and yesterday I recorded an exciting interview with our own Emeritus Professor Sir Geoffrey Palmer. We talk about his work on slavery, the role of Watt in history, his view on curriculum reform and his assessment of the culture at Heriot-Watt. It is a fascinating discussion and we will be releasing the full conversation later this month.

Professor Richard A. Williams
Principal and Vice-Chancellor