June 24, 2021

Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor to help improve higher education quality and standards

Education Minister appoints Professor Joe Chicharo OM among other distinguished higher education leaders

University of Wollongong (UOW) Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Joe Chicharo, has been appointed among a select group of distinguished higher education leaders to advise the Australian Government on higher education quality and standards.

Professor Chicharo’s appointment to the Higher Education Standards Panel was announced by Federal Minister for Education and Youth, The Hon Alan Tudge MP, on Wednesday 23 June, 2021.

Joining the panel alongside Professor Chicharo are University of the Sunshine Coast Vice-Chancellor and President, Professor Helen Bartlett and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research Director, Professor Doug Hilton AO.

Minister Tudge said the panel will advise on a range of important higher education issues.

“I have asked the panel to look at transparency in admissions, the quality of online and mixed-mode courses and reducing the regulatory burden on higher education providers,” Minister Tudge said.

“I also want them to ensure that we have appropriate standards in place to support student mental health and wellbeing and to meet the needs of students with a disability.

“The members of the panel bring a wealth of experience and insight into the delivery of higher education and I look forward to working with them over the next three years.”

UOW Vice-Chancellor, Professor Patricia Davidson, congratulated Professor Chicharo on his appointment.

“Professor Chicharo’s appointment to this prestigious panel reflects his standing as a leader in the international higher education sector, which is a testament to his breadth and depth of experience,” Professor Davidson said.

Professor Chicharo welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the sector.

“I’m honoured to be appointed and look forward to working with other leaders to advise government during this unprecedented time of disruption and change in higher education in Australia and globally,” Professor Chicharo said.

Professor Chicharo has been with the University of Wollongong for 36 years, joining as a lecturer with substantial industry experience and progressing through many research, school, faculty and institutional executive leadership positions. He has also held several roles that have enabled him to contribute substantially to higher education nationally and internationally.

Professor Chicharo received the Oder of Merit (Portugal) OM in 2007 for distinguished services in the public and private sphere.