The university, founded in Edinburgh in 1821, has unveiled its ambitious 10-year plan, titled “Driven by Purpose, Measured by Impact”. Strategy 2035 builds on Heriot-Watt’s distinctiveness, aiming to establish it as a global force for innovation, opportunity, and societal progress.
Professor Nola Hewitt-Dundas, Principal and Vice-Chancellor, stated that the strategy focuses on education available irrespective of age or geography, research shaped by industry collaboration, a pipeline of high-growth businesses, and an innovative culture. The plan also reinforces the university’s commitment to widening participation and lifelong learning.
Bruce Pritchard, Chair of Court, highlighted that Strategy 2035 was shaped by extensive engagement with colleagues, governors, students, alumni, and partners. He emphasised that it provides a clear framework for decisions and investments over the next decade, ensuring responsiveness to societal needs while upholding the university's core values.
A central ambition is to broaden access to flexible, high-quality education, with a significant expansion of flexible learning opportunities through its Online Campus, leveraging decades of distance learning expertise. The strategy also reinforces a commitment to research addressing major global challenges, focusing on impact in areas such as climate and sustainability, health, and future technologies.
Heriot-Watt, with campuses in Scotland, Dubai, and Malaysia, will build on its international network and global partnerships to extend the reach of its education, research, and innovation, supporting economic and social development.
