Vision 2040 – a new strategic direction

Thursday 23 March 2023 2:25pm

In February, the interim final version of Vision 2040, the new strategic direction for the University of Otago, was launched.

Chancellor Stephen Higgs says the Vision lays out a shared view of the future for the organisation. The formation of the strategy included extensive consultation with stakeholders and Mr Higgs says those views have very much informed the Vision 2040 document. Thank you to all alumni who offered feedback during this process.

“The result is a shared outlook of what we seek to be in the future and what our key priorities are,” says Mr Higgs.

The full Vision 2040 strategy document is available here

Next steps are for the University to consider how to turn the high-level Vision into strategy and action. Vision 2040 will be finalised following the renewal of the Memorandum of Understanding between the University and Ngāi Tahu, the University's main Te Tiriti partners.

Mr Higgs and Vice-Chancellor Professor David Murdoch provided an introduction to the Vision here: Vision 2040 - A new strategic direction. Further stories looking into different aspects of the Vision can be found on this page.

Tuakiritaka – a proposed new visual identity for the University of Otago

The University of Otago is proposing a new visual identity to align with its strategic direction, Vision 2040.

While recognising and embracing our Scottish heritage – pioneering in spirit and with inherent value on education – Vision 2040 also acknowledges the desire to journey on from our colonial origins. It turns to our present and future, one in which we recognise the critical importance of mātauraka Māori, our place, and our culture in Aotearoa New Zealand.

This proposed new identity has been developed with that in mind and in collaboration with mana whenua as part of the ever-strengthening relationship between the University of Otago and Kāi Tahu.

With the support of our community, we want to take steps to ensure that all students feel welcome at Otago; to develop a unique identity that speaks to our special place in the world.

We want to continue to transform, to advance and to dare, together.

Last week, the University launched consultation with alumni, staff and students on the proposed new visual identity. An email inviting alumni to take part in a survey to share your feedback was sent on Thursday, 16 March, and we encourage you to take part. The consultation period runs until Sunday, 16 April.

Read more about the proposal and watch some of our community talking about Tuakiritaka here:
Tuakiritaka (otago.ac.nz)