About Us

Universitas 21 (U21) is a unique global network that brings together 29 world-leading, research-intensive universities who share a common belief in the value of collaboration and internationalisation. From Belgium to Chile, South Korea to South Africa, our member-led initiatives and programmes are designed to benefit staff, students and member institutions, through sharing resources, learning together and co-designing solutions to our common challenges.  

By connecting like-minded universities, U21 enables our members to achieve more together through a portfolio of activities which connect three core university priorities: student experience, researcher engagement and educational innovation. This unique combination ensures our members remain at the forefront of the latest international developments in higher education.  

Our Network Principles       U21 - Commitment to Sustainability

Key Benefits of Membership:  
Our Network 

A global network of 29 partners, we are inclusive, agile and responsive; committed to providing opportunities that are tailored to our members’ needs 

Collaboration 

We connect our members with a network of trusted partners; bringing together global perspectives, enabling discussion and developing initiatives which could not be delivered through a single university or bi-lateral agreement   

Peer support 

We provide peer support and connections for our members at all stages of their professional and academic pathways, from undergraduate students through to university senior leaders 

A global perspective 

We offer a distinctive portfolio which connects three core university priorities: student experience, researcher engagement and educational innovation. This unique combination ensures our members remain at the forefront of the latest international developments within higher education 

A commitment to sustainability

U21 cares deeply about a future that is safer and more sustainable for our students, our staff, alumni, and the wider communities that we serve. A defining characteristic of U21 members is a commitment to strengthening our positive impact in the world, both individually and collectively. We recognise that universities and their people play a crucial role across local, regional and international boundaries in creating ideas, fostering innovation, exchanging knowledge, functioning as anchor institutions, and collaborating with businesses, organisations and governments to advance knowledge and seek solutions to current and future challenges

A Guide to Opportunities 2023  How to get involved with U21

Welcome to Universitas 21 by Professor Jenny Dixon