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Ancora Imparo, June, 2009

As this is my last Ancora Imparo before I retire from Monash on 5 July, it is a time to reflect on the past six years since I began at Monash in 2003.

It has been for me an intensely rewarding and stimulating time. My personal experience is best summarised by the motto of the University and the name of this column, Ancora Imparo or "I am still learning". I have learnt an enormous amount as Vice-Chancellor of Monash University.

I have discovered the breadth and depth of innovative and creative research and scholarship that is being undertaken. Whether this is in medieval history, economic modelling, light-alloy design, structural analysis of proteins, transmission of disease, accident research, drug design and drug candidate optimisation, fuel cells, climate change, human rights or countless other areas, we have world leading researchers contributing to knowledge and to the solution of problems.

I have learnt of the innovation that our educators are implementing so that the transition from the passive transmission of information to the active involvement of students in their own education is enhanced by the application of technology in exciting ways.

I have witnessed the development of our two international campuses from their embryonic stages with a small number of pioneering students and staff to bustling research active campuses delivering high quality education and research and building invaluable links and a high reputation in their host countries.

I have suffered the frustrations and enjoyed the excitement during the development of our joint venture research academy with the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay.

I have gained a deeper understanding of China through the work of our international office and faculties to develop an in-depth relationship with Sichuan University and a number of exciting initiatives in Beijing and Shanghai.

I have realised how our centre in Prato could be used as a venue where students and faculty from many universities around the world can be brought together for the mutual benefit of all involved in a truly international educational forum.

I have been privileged to learn so much from the best university senior management team in the country and from the Deans and Divisional Directors and staff at all levels who have rejected the cynicism that can so easily infect many in all walks of life. Instead, they have been inspired by the role they are playing in educating the leaders of the future and in advancing the knowledge and scholarship we will need to solve the problems facing the planet and in enriching all lives.

Most of all, I have learnt from the students at our campuses in Australia, Malaysia and South Africa. I have learnt of their desire to have a real impact in making the world a better place. Many of our students are working on environmental issues, on community development and foreign aid and local welfare through voluntary organisations of many types. It is quite inspirational. The Monash Passport emphasises educational opportunities that come from volunteering, leadership experience and international engagement and our students are taking full advantage of these opportunities.

I leave Monash with an enduring admiration for the people who make it the great institution it is – its staff and students. I know that it will be in good hands. Ed Byrne and his colleagues will ensure that the University continues to excel in all areas of academic endeavour.

I wish you all well and thank you for the privilege of being part of this wonderful institution. There is much more to do, but Monash's trajectory, international footprint and most of all its people, ensure that it is destined to be one of the great universities of the world.