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°×С½ãÂÛ̳ Pro-Vice-Provost (International) Professor Deenan Pillay on remaining focused on research impact

21 September 2021

Professor Deenan Pillay writes about delivering research impact in an uncertain post-COVID world and supporting the °×С½ãÂÛ̳ community to create greater global good

Deenan Pillay

The world is burning – literally – and climate change has led to an increase in weather unpredictability. Meanwhile, the world is reeling from its latest pandemic, almost certainly caused by live animal trading, and the hugely beneficial impact of new COVID vaccines has been tempered by gross global inequity in access, leaving us all still at risk. And then there is the gross failure of international political governance to secure a peaceful outcome for the people of Afghanistan. This all comes on top of a distinct move to inward-looking and nationalist feelings here in the UK, and other parts of the world, which saw significant cuts to UK overseas development aid, including research funding.

It is easy to feel despondent and powerless to respond in a constructive manner.

However, despite these challenges, universities have an opportunity to make a change in their global impact and collaboratively contribute solutions to these critical challenges for the future. We at °×С½ãÂÛ̳ are in a particularly strong position. We host an amazing and broad spectrum of research activities, and a truly international student and staff body. We also work within a longstanding °×С½ãÂÛ̳ ethos of tolerance, inclusivity and a commitment to equity.

Nevertheless, translating our academic strengths into global impact does not happen by accident...

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