Photo caption: University of Canterbury Vice-Chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey joined higher education leaders at the 2025 QS India Summit
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury (UC), Vice-Chancellor Professor Cheryl de la Rey joined eminent Indian and international thought leaders to discuss global uncertainties and their impact on higher education.
Sharing UC’s vision for sustainable and adaptable education models, Professor De la Rey highlighted innovative policies, technological advancements, and structural solutions that build resilience and support continuity in higher education.
The Summit, themed "Creating Equitable Educational Partnerships Amid Global Uncertainties," brought together over 400 senior leaders to address pressing issues shaping India’s higher education landscape. Discussions focused on how universities can respond to challenges such as climate change, economic disruption, and rapid technological advancements, highlighting the importance of global collaboration in building sustainable education systems.
As part of the panel discussion titled, "Addressing Global Uncertainties: Building Resilient Educational Institutions," Professor De la Rey joined university leaders, Dr Vidya Yeravdekar, Vice-Chancellor of Symbiosis International University, Professor Tariq Ali, Pro-Vice-Chancellor of the University of Liverpool, Professor Sasha Roseneil, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Sussex, Professor Theo Farrell, Vice-Chancellor of La Trobe University, and Professor Peter Mathieson, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Edinburgh. Together, they shared insights on how universities can build resilience through sustainable policies, technological advancements, and risk management strategies that empower institutions to thrive in an ever-changing world.
Speaking on UC’s approach, Professor De la Rey emphasised the importance of innovation and collaboration when navigating uncertainty. She reflected on UC’s 150-year history as Aotearoa New Zealand’s second-oldest university and its ongoing focus on innovation, particularly in areas such as community impact and green hydrogen research—with alumni establishing companies in this field and partnering with the University.
Highlighting Aotearoa New Zealand’s thriving start-up ecosystem and highlighting the significance of global partnerships, particularly with India, in driving research, knowledge exchange, and industry collaboration. She noted that Aotearoa New Zealand and India share a deep commitment to innovation and that complementarity is key to fostering meaningful partnerships.
The QS India Summit provided a valuable opportunity to connect with global leaders, exchange ideas, and reaffirm UC’s position as a university that is actively shaping the future of higher education through resilience, innovation, and meaningful partnerships.
While in India, Professor De la Rey will participate in panel discussions at The PIE Live India 2025 in Delhi and attend key partner and stakeholder meetings. These engagements include discussions with; H.E. Patrick John Rata, New Zealand High Commissioner; Professor M. Jagadesh Kumar, Chairman of the Indian University Grants Commission; and Professor Rangan Banerjee, Executive Director of IIT Delhi, along with senior leadership. Additional meetings are planned with the New Zealand Deputy High Commissioner, and the Regional Director of the Association of Commonwealth Universities.
