Our governance framework

The University's governance framework consists of our Charter, Statutes, Ordinances and Regulations. Together, these documents set out the principles by which the University operates.

Why are we reviewing the framework now?

Our governance framework was established with the formation of the University in 1960s. The University has grown and developed considerably since then and now operates within a radically different environment not anticipated by these documents. Over the years, the framework has been amended and updated on a piecemeal basis to keep pace with changes in the external environment, but this has led to gaps, inconsistencies, duplication, and cumbersome processes that do not always reflect best practice or recent legislation. This has a very tangible impact on the effective operation of the University and makes our governance framework inaccessible and difficult to understand.

External reviews of Council in 2018 and 2022 both recommended that a comprehensive review of the framework be carried out to enable the University to function more effectively.

What are we trying to achieve?

A robust and agile governance framework is required to underpin several key elements of the new University strategy. The aim of the project is to create an accessible, streamlined and modern governance framework for the University that takes into account major changes in the external landscape and enshrines the enduring values and culture of the University. In practical terms, staff and students should find the rules easier to understand, and the anticipated changes should reduce bureaucracy.