UGPN Conference

On 30 January 2020, the World Health Organisation declared the coronavirus outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.

In Australia, while numbers of infected individuals remain low, case numbers are increasing daily and the New South Wales Health Minister indicated yesterday that containment may be unlikely. Given the increasing changes in epidemiology of the virus around the country, health experts here indicate that the number of new COVID-19 cases in Australia is likely to rise over the next few weeks.

In view of this scenario and given that the UGPN conference is scheduled to be held in Wollongong from 30 March – 1 April 2020, the UGPN Executive held an extraordinary meeting this morning (AEDT) to seek UGPN members’ views on whether to proceed with the current arrangements for the conference or postpone the meeting till a later date.

This was not an easy decision to make as we had to consider the advice from four national governments, four universities and the personal situation of individual delegates from each of our partner universities.

The UGPN Executive agreed that the most judicious option, given current information and official advice across four countries, was to postpone the conference to a time when each partner University felt confident they could guarantee their delegates’ attendance. We are currently investigating a new date suitable to all partners.  We hope to propose a tentative date for the conference by the end of the month.

We apologise for any inconvenience to the arrangements you may have already made for the conference and appreciate your patience and understanding with the change of date for the conference.

The UGPN are still very committed and excited to host the conference at UOW and look forward to meeting with you at a later date.

This year's UGPN delegates will address global problems through multidisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange developing; revolutionary solutions leading to innovative research projects.

With plenaries from UOW academic researchers and three themed mulitdisciplinary workshops, attendees will participate in tackling global issues with consideration of key UN sustainable development goals. Presentations from UOW Undergraduate and Postgraduate students engaged in finding real-world solutions to global problems and from recipients of Research Collaborative Fund grants will inspire attendees. Lunchtime panels addressing equity, diversity and equality and collaboration in teaching and learning as well as workshops for professional staff discussing marketing and communications, equity and diversity and student and staff mobility ensure a well rounded conference program. Campus tours and social events will also be on offer for attendees to network and help establish potential collaboration opportunities.

In the University of Wollongong’s 60-year history, it has built an international reputation for world-class research and exceptional teaching quality. We’re ranked in the top 250 universities in the world and we’re aiming higher every day. With 17 beautiful beaches, a spectacular escarpment, a bustling city centre and your choice of restaurant and entertainment zones, Wollongong is here waiting for you to explore. There really is something for everyone in Wollongong and the greater Illawarra region.