The Duchess of Sussex has written an introduction to the Association of Commonwealth Universities’ strategic plan, “The Road to 2030: Building a Better World Through Higher Education.”
Meghan writes:
“As Patron of the Association of Commonwealth Universities, it brings me incredible pride to support a network of universities each aligned with the shared goal of enabling students worldwide to maximise their potential through access to higher education.
“The experience of attending university allows students to graduated into the world with the social skills and intellectual prowess that will set them up for greater success; that happens not simply on a micro level in their own lives, but on a macro level. The choices they make and challenges they endeavour to overcome create deep and meaningful global impact.
“It is important to note that for many young people around the 53 countries of the Commonwealth, the opportunity to achieve their full potential through education can simply feel out of reach. Whether it is cost prohibitive or that the cultural stigma in their specific community restricts their ability to attend by virtue of their gender, race, or creed – the ACU seeks to break through these boundaries and enable all curious minds the opportunity to whet their appetites for the experiential value of higher learning.
“In many territories throughout the world, a university education is the key to ending poverty by empowering students to generate incomes for their families and wider communities, as well as securing their own futures.
“It is only right then that the ACU plays a critical role in making this happen; this esteemed network supports universities and students to open doors that have otherwise been closed, and in doing so to open minds as well.
“I am inspired by the students of today, by their vision and ambition for positive change, and by their understanding of the powerful role higher education can play to create a brighter future. The Commonwealth’s young people are an incredible asset, and it is vital that we invest in them.”
The strategic plan lays out five strategies that will guide the ACU through 2019 and into 2025: championing the power of higher education to improve lives; support the long-term viability of universities; engaging and connecting with universities on a global level; providing positive educational experiences; and upholding the ACU’s reputation for excellence and impact.
Meghan took over as Patron of the ACU earlier this year from The Queen, who’d been Patron since 1986.
