Mission

U21 is a global university network that is deeply committed to connecting people across borders and diverse cultures. Since 1997, U21 has enriched education and research within and between its members and strengthened their capacity through internationalisation and open, trusted dialogue.

We do this intentionally, offering member universities a suite of high-value, cooperative research, learning and development opportunities for staff and students. Our goal is to nurture well-informed, highly educated, globally responsive citizens and leaders of the future.

Focusing on the core and intersecting university priorities of research, education and student experience, our member-led initiatives and programmes are designed to inform and assist the development and success of our staff and students.

U21 benefits from a unique alchemy of size, diversity and trust, with the value of our interactions and quality of our work directly influenced by the intimate nature of the network. We enable our members to collaborate, build networks, exchange knowledge and enhance their capacity to engage with their own wider communities and beyond.

These priorities underpin the following principles that guide the activities of the network.

Principles

• Take a lead on the critical role of research-intensive universities in responding to the grand challenges of our time, with a strong focus on sustainable development in all U21 programmes, activities, advocacy and collaborations with internal and external partners
• Ensure inclusivity, equity, and diversity of representation for staff and students in all network opportunities and experiences
• Share best practice and proactively disseminate knowledge to enhance the work of members and contribute to improving the quality of the higher education sector more broadly across the globe
• Increase understanding and trust between and within our member universities, their staff, students, and alumni, providing enhanced peer support and broader, accelerated global connections across national boundaries and political divides
• Facilitate the development of new and deeper relationships and equitable partnerships that yield new perspectives, knowledge and societal impact, locally and globally
• Prioritise the development of leadership capabilities for staff and students
• Support the development of students as globally aware citizens and as the next generation of leaders
• Facilitate the sharing of diverse perspectives and viewpoints within a respectful environment

To note: Mission and principles amended October 2024 inline with U21 Strategy 2024-2027