New operating model for UHI being developed as university embarks upon ‘period of change’
The University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI) has announced plans to explore a new operating model which they said aims to “strengthen student experience and ensure financial sustainability.”
The tertiary institution, which serves the Highlands and Islands, Moray, and Perthshire is embarking upon a “period of change” that they said aims to deliver a more integrated partnership.
This follows the publication of UHI’s Strategic Plan 2030 and changes to its senior executive team earlier this year.
Vicki Nairn, UHI principal and vice-chancellor, said: “At the heart of any potential change remains UHI’s founding mission which is to have a transformational impact on the people, communities and economy of our regions, underpinned by our values of collaboration, openness, respect and excellence.
“UHI was recently rated 6th in Scotland for undergraduate satisfaction and 1st in Scotland for postgraduate satisfaction for the third year in a row. These are brilliant achievements, and our goal is to ensure our students continue receiving the maximum resources possible to maintain and further strengthen the high standards of teaching, research, and knowledge exchange that define us.
“UHI, like many institutions in Scotland, is facing significant financial challenges due to the current level of funding available to the sector coupled with increased costs and a very competitive recruitment market in further and higher education.
"We are taking a proactive approach that enables us to address these financial challenges while ensuring we continue to attract, nurture, and retain talent within our communities, driving innovation and fostering social and economic prosperity. By leveraging collaboration across the partnership and harnessing our combined strengths, we will enhance our operational efficiency.”
She said that principals across the partnership and key leaders have been exploring various options to develop an Outline Business Case, which is still in its early stages, to which will follow a “comprehensive, phased process” with numerous opportunities for students, staff, and other stakeholders to provide feedback and insights.
She continued: “Our priority is to ensure they are active co-creators in this transformation, with their voices playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of UHI together.
“A new operating model represents a significant step forward for our partnership. We are excited to embark on this journey towards a more integrated and financially sustainable future and are confident that it will enable us to better serve our students, staff, and communities."
