June 26, 2014

Launch unites bright minds to tackle Global Challenges

A unique research program that brings together world-class expertise in a bid to offer solutions to complex world problems was launched by UOW at Old Parliament House in Canberra on Thursday night (25 June).

Global Challenges was launched to an audience of politicians and diplomats and hosted by UOW Brand Ambassador and former Australian cricketer Adam Gilchrist AM. Australian Prime Minister The Hon. Tony Abbott, MP, and Opposition Leader The Hon. Bill Shorten, MP, both sent goodwill messages for the launch which were read respectively by Senator The Hon. Concetta Fierravanti-Wells and the Federal Member for Cunningham The Hon. Sharon Bird, MP. Mr Abbott met members of the UOW delegation to Canberra earlier in the day.

Through the Global Challenges Program, researchers from a variety of disciplines will collaborate to problem-solve issues having an impact locally, nationally and internationally, including the ageing population, transforming traditional manufacturing bases through innovative technologies, and better sustaining our coastal and marine zones.

UOW Vice-Chancellor Professor Paul Wellings said the multidisciplinary focus would enable researchers to work together on solutions to make a tangible difference in the world. 

“The Global Challenges Program is designed to encourage and develop creative and community-engaged research that will help drive social, economic, and cultural change in our region, and will be translatable across the globe,” he said.

Details of the planned research projects were also outlined at the launch by the Director of the UOW Global Challenges Program, Professor Chris Gibson.

Mr Gilchrist has represented UOW as its ambassador since 2008 and said he was constantly impressed by the depth and breadth of the University’s research.

 More information: globalchallenges.uow.edu.au