Author: Shaun Williams, Executive Director Engagement and Advancement
- This was the first UEB meeting for two weeks, as last week was dedicated to an extended all-day meeting to review progress with the University Strategy, consider our long-term estates transformation priorities, and discuss each faculty’s business planning priorities.
- Today’s meeting started with a discussion about the continuing crisis in the Middle East, which we know continues to affect many in our community, especially those who have direct connections in the region and are worried about the welfare of family and friends in Israel and Gaza. UEB also noted a letter sent to all Vice-Chancellors by the Chair of the British Committee for the Universities of Palestine.
- UEB heard that a further message from the Vice-Chancellor was planned this week, repeating our pledge that we will ensure that all members of our community feel safe, and that – at a time when there is great concern about the rise in Antisemitic and Islamophobic incidents in some areas – we will not hesitate to take swift and decisive action against any threats to our Jewish or Muslim students and staff, or to any other members of our community.
- UEB also discussed current concerns in the sector about political and media scrutiny around freedom of expression, and our messaging has underlined the need to ensure our students and staff can freely and respectfully express their lawful views.
- In other matters, UEB noted the announcement the previous day that the Universities and College Union (UCU) ballot to renew their strike mandate had fallen short of the required threshold of 50% of eligible members to respond, and so the mandate was not renewed. UEB expressed its relief that students would not be further impacted.
- There was a discussion about our plans to establish three new international campuses by 2030, in addition to the existing University of Southampton Malaysia. A number of target locations have been identified and are currently being assessed, with India having the highest potential.
- Finally, UEB noted the latest update on University Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), reviewed by our governing Council three times a year; and there was the regular review of the University Risk Register.