January 30, 2019
Murdoch VC Eeva Leinonen becomes new IRU Chair
Vice-Chancellor of Murdoch University Professor Eeva Leinonen has begun a new role as Chair of the Innovative Research Universities (IRU) group for 2019 and 2020.
Professor Leinonen takes up the position from Flinders University VC Colin Stirling who has completed his two year term in the job. The role of IRU Chair rotates among its member Vice-Chancellors.
The IRU Chair plays an important role in shaping the collective direction of the group including being at the forefront of discussions with government ministers on IRU issues.
Commenting, Professor Leinonen said:
“Colin Stirling did a superb job as Chair of the IRU group. I am both thankful for his work and pleased to be taking over where he left off.
“The 2019 federal election is unusual for the two clearly distinct positions from the Government and the Labor Opposition about how best to support universities over the coming decade in response to a strongly growing school leaver cohort.
“Whoever is Education Minister after the election needs to focus on the need for a coherent tertiary education system that gives all Australians the opportunity and incentive to get the vocational and higher education qualifications, skills and knowledge to which they aspire.
“The IRU will continue to advocate for policies that will secure and enhance the excellence of Australia’s higher education for all its citizens and for the large numbers of international students who choose us.
“Within the IRU there is much to build on as we work together in key areas:
- improving student and graduate success;
- delivering first-class research that has real-world benefits;
- supporting urban regeneration and renewal through our campuses;
- strengthening our links with Asia and the Pacific region; and
- improving university services.”
