As we approach the session break next week, I write to you from Scotland where, really, it feels like Spring might finally have arrived. We’re starting to see lighter evenings and slightly warmer days, both in Orkney and ‘down south’ in Edinburgh and Galashiels.
In the warmer climate of Dubai, our new campus is really taking shape and our Campus Champions are now on site familiarising themselves with every aspect of the building, ahead of more staff being able to be there in person. The walk-though of the campus is inspiring, and that’s before we’ve even seen our colleagues and students taking advantage of the space and facilities on offer. I’m aware this video has been shared on our social media channels, but I would urge everyone to take a look.
In the even warmer climate of Malaysia, blended learning is in full swing. I was pleased to join over 400 delegates at the weekend forum as part of the International Day of Happiness. What amazing and touching stories – especially hearing about supporting students with severe impairments to swim and dive, and the practical advice from our own Professor Deborah Hall and Professor Martha Cadell on purpose-driven and mindful learning. Thanks to the Malaysia campus student and staff teams for organising the event.
It was hoped that many more staff and students would be able to enjoy our campuses for our Summer Graduations this year. These are always a highlight in our calendar, and I know our students enjoy being able to celebrate with family and friends. We have, sadly, had to take the decision to cancel our summer ceremonies in Scotland, Dubai and Malaysia this year in light of the ongoing global pandemic and restrictions on public gatherings. We are currently making plans to go ahead with our ceremonies in November and December 2021 – subject, of course, to the COVID-19 situation and government guidelines at that time. Further details will follow soon. I’m pleased to say we will once again hold Virtual Celebrations in July – these online celebrations have proven to be very popular amongst our students and allow them to celebrate their achievements together virtually while we wait to be together again in person. My thanks go to the team involved in creating these important Virtual events and making them such special occasions.
In any year, pandemic or not, everyone across the University has a part to play in ensuring our research is both world-beating and world-changing, and our students receive the very best education and learning experience. The technical services provided are fundamental to all our academic endeavours, across our schools and campuses. To date, we have recognised the importance of high quality skilled technical support through being a signatory to the Technician Commitment. But I wanted to do more. And so I have introduced the Technicians Award to further highlight the important work being done by all our technicians. There are two categories – one recognising excellence in our COVID-19 response: the other in support of innovation in teaching and/or research. Entries are open until 30 April – and I look forward to showcasing this work in June.
I very much hope the Rest Days arranged across each campus are providing some additional breathing space for as many colleagues as possible, as we continue with such busy schedules. As a reminder, the dates are:
- UK: 1 April, 23 April
- Malaysia: 26 March, 23 April
- Dubai: 4 April, 25 April
Professor Richard A. Williams
Principal and Vice-Chancellor