Our strategy
Aart de Geus, former deputy secretary-general of the OECD and a World Fellow at the University in 2011
Our international strategy is guided by the University’s Strategic Plan 2011–2015, which states that “promoting the University’s position in the international academic community is fundamental to all that we do”.
The Strategic Plan emphasises the need to create more opportunities for students to engage in research and education outside Australia and develop as global citizens, and for overseas students to find an environment that values the contribution they can make.
It also calls for the prioritisation of international engagement on a regional basis to support the effective development of University-wide partnerships and networks.
Specific initiatives include:
- Provide international exchange opportunities for students and international experience for staff.
- Finalise the implementation of the Second Language Project.
- Expand the World Scholars Program to attract the best PhD candidates from priority countries.
- Introduce a World Fellows Program for short-term visits by leading international figures.
- Implement the project on Appointments for Overseas Academics to facilitate the appointment of staff also employed at an overseas university.
- Pursue new funding opportunities for international engagement and exchange.
- Focus our regional engagement efforts, with China, South East Asia and India as top priorities.
- Develop the Sydney World Program of offshore and onshore academic forums, symposia, graduations and alumni receptions.
- Design an international media and communications program.
- The Confucius Institute provides many popular Chinese language and culture programs.
For more details, see the University of Sydney 2011–2015 Strategic Plan and the International Portfolio’s Academic and Business Plan 2011–2015.