Flinders University has pledged to change 10 million lives for the better by 2035, unveiling a rallying vision at the centre of its new strategic plan.
The bold ambition sits at the centre of the University's new strategic plan, Agenda 2035: Impact. With Purpose., launched today by Vice-Chancellor Professor Colin Stirling as Flinders prepares to mark its 60th anniversary.
Professor Stirling said the strategy puts a clear stake in the ground, challenging universities to look beyond their own walls and deliver tangible benefits for the communities they exist to serve.
"Australian universities cannot afford to be left behind with their heads in the sandstone while the world changes. The ivory tower model is over," Professor Stirling said. "Universities must be for, and of, their communities."
He said Agenda 2035 is deliberately outward facing, focused on the difference Flinders can make for South Australia, the nation, and people's lives.
Building on 60 years of contribution to South Australia, the strategy strengthens Flinders' long-standing focus on access and equity, reshaping who participates in higher education.
"Last year, almost half of our students were the first in their family to attend university, with our participation impact heightened at City Campus where students represent a range of equity backgrounds," Professor Stirling said.
"Many are from Adelaide's northern suburbs, where historically fewer than 10 per cent of young people progress to higher education. Our sector has an urgent duty to put that right, and we are doubling down on our commitment to do something about it."
The strategy is released as independent global rankings recognise Flinders as the world's second-leading university for reducing inequalities, reinforcing that widening participation and academic quality go hand in hand.
Professor Stirling said competition across the sector has never been more intense - for funding, for students, and for the confidence of governments and communities.
"Our success will be measured by the difference we make through education that lifts participation, research that delivers solutions, and partnerships that strengthen communities and productivity," he said.
"We are focused on being a university that is, of, and for South Australia - collaborative, accountable and committed to impact. Changing 10 million lives is an ambitious goal, and every one matters."
Flinders University's next decade will be driven by three strategic priorities: putting students first; being the university for industry and enterprise; and delivering research that tackles questions that matter and produces solutions that work.
