Universitas 21 Welcomes New Chair

Universitas 21 is delighted to welcome Professor Tan, Eng Chye of the National University of Singapore as the new Chair of the Network. Professor Tan, President of the National University of Singapore, succeeds Professor Sir David Eastwood, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Birmingham, who has held the position since 2014.   

Professor Tan Image
Professor Tan, Eng Chye

Prof Tan obtained his Bachelor's degree in mathematics (First Class Honours, 1985) at NUS and his PhD at Yale University. A passionate and award-winning educator, he has been a pioneer architect of the current academic system in NUS, seeding many innovative initiatives, such as the Special Programme in Science, University Scholars Programme, and Technology-enhanced Education. He is an active member of Singapore’s Future Economy Council, which is tasked with driving the growth and transformation of the country’s future economy, alongside his work with a variety of other organisations.  

Professor Tan commented “I am honoured to serve as Chair of Universitas 21 among my distinguished peers. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown how interdependent the world really is, and how research-intensive universities can play a role by collaborating, and leveraging on our combined talents and expertise, to help solve complex challenges. I look forward to working with members of the U21 network to foster closer exchange and interaction, enhancing the dynamism of global higher education”. 

Professor Jenny Dixon, Provost of the U21 network is delighted to be working with Professor Tan in this exciting yet challenging time for Higher Education.  “Professor Tan brings with him a wealth of experience within Global Higher Education. I am looking forward to working together to further develop our initiatives and activities for the benefit of our membership.” 

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