Highlights from the meeting include Prof Balfour on the University of Otago campus, and alongside Vice?Chancellors Prof Anders Hagfeldt (Uppsala University, Sweden), Prof Grant Robertson (University of Otago, New Zealand), and Prof Karen O’Brien (Durham University, UK). Image: Supplied

The University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) Rector and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert J Balfour, recently represented the University at the Matariki Network of Universities (MNU) Executive Board and Leads Meeting, hosted by the University of Otago in Dunedin, New Zealand from 20–22 September 2026.

The Matariki Network is a consortium of leading universities across the world, recognised for their excellence in advanced learning, research intensity, and commitment to providing a high-quality student experience. Its members - Durham University (UK), Queen’s University (Canada), University of Otago (New Zealand), University of Tübingen (Germany), University of the Western Cape (South Africa), and Uppsala University (Sweden) - share a vision of striving to be flexible, innovative and globally oriented institutions.

This year’s meeting placed particular emphasis on the identity and future strategy of the network, with discussions on its vision, branding and visual identity. The board also considered the possibility of expanding membership, reviewing the results of a ranking exercise before identifying preferred candidates for future engagement.

Research collaboration was another key focus, with members exploring how best to evaluate the outcomes of the Research Seed Fund and considering new opportunities for joint projects. Updates were also shared on flagship initiatives such as the Professional Services Global Leadership Programme, the Matariki Engagement Grant, and the Student Game Changer pilot, alongside plans for a new Research in Focus photo competition.

Prof Balfour. Image: Supplied

Beyond governance and strategy, the meeting featured two thought-provoking roundtables. One examined the role of AI in universities, showcasing a Seed Fund project on the ethical use of generative AI in higher education. The other explored the social licence of universities, reflecting on how institutions build trust and accountability with the societies they serve.

Delegates also engaged with Maori astronomer Victoria Campbell, who offered insights into the Matariki star cluster, before the gathering concluded with a traditional poroporoaki (farewell) ceremony. At this closing, the Mauri Stone was blessed and ceremonially handed to the University of Tübingen, which will host the next annual meeting.

Professor Balfour’s participation highlights UWC’s role in shaping international conversations on higher education. By contributing African perspectives to global debates on research, innovation and student experience, UWC continues to strengthen its profile as a university that is both rooted in local context and engaged with the world.