An independent audit of the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka has highlighted its outstanding track record in academic achievement as well as its support systems in place for students.
The audit was carried out by the independent Academic Quality Agency (AQA), as part of its latest cycle of academic audits on all New Zealand universities.
AQA panel members visited Otago’s Ōtepoti campus in July, interviewing more than 100 staff and students, and released a report of their findings today (Monday, 18 November 2024).
Vice-Chancellor Hon Grant Robertson says he’s pleased with the outcome.
Vice-Chancellor Hon Grant Robertson
“Overall, the Academic Audit report reinforces Otago’s outstanding reputation for teaching and learning,” he says.
“The report is particularly complimentary of our strong track record in academic achievement and our comprehensive pastoral care network.
“This result reflects that students come to Otago for an exceptional education from world-class teachers and, as well as receiving that, we go the extra mile to look after and nurture them once they’re here.
“I want to acknowledge how dedicated both academic and professional staff are towards making the Otago experience so special, rewarding and beneficial for our students.”
Mr Robertson says he’s also pleased that the audit findings recognise the University’s coherent overall strategic direction, its comprehensive support for students transitioning into employment, and its academic leadership development programme.
The audit report contains 13 commendations of good practice at Otago, 15 affirmations of work underway, and 19 recommendations to encourage further good practice.
Mr Robertson says the AQA panel strongly affirmed the University’s initiative underway to enhance its digital learning environment including its learning management system.
Among the recommendations for improvement are continuing to increase the number of Māori and Pacific staff at all levels, developing more guidance on the use of AI, and developing a system to identify and support students at academic risk before a mid-year progress assessment.
The AQA is currently on its sixth cycle of academic audits for New Zealand universities since academic audits began in 1993.
Otago is the seventh university to be audited in this cycle. Academic reports for the universities audited to date, including Otago’s, are available on the AQA website, www.aqa.ac.nz