McMaster University Leads Global Dialogue on Trust, Value, and Equity at U21 Meeting

McMaster University took a leading role in shaping global conversations on the future of higher education at the U21 Global Research and Senior Leaders’ Meeting 2025, hosted by the University of Johannesburg, South Africa.

Representing McMaster, Dr. Bonny Ibhawoh, Vice-Provost (International Affairs), chaired and moderated the meeting’s closing plenary titled “Reflections on Trust, Value and Equitable Progress.” The session brought together university leaders from across the Universitas 21 (U21) network to reflect on how research-intensive institutions can strengthen public trust, demonstrate societal value, and foster equity in global collaboration.

The plenary synthesized insights from three days of deliberations, connecting key themes of trust, transparency, and inclusion that emerged throughout the meeting.

“McMaster’s engagement in U21 underscores our commitment to leading responsibly and collaboratively on the global stage,” said Professor Ibhawoh. “At a moment of growing public distrust in institutions, rebuilding trust, adding value, and fostering equity should be the core lived principles that shape how universities engage with communities, partners, and the world.”

The plenary challenged participants to consider how universities can redefine success in research and education, ensuring that global collaboration advances both excellence and fairness. McMaster’s contributions at the U21 leaders’ forums reinforce its role as a catalyst for inclusive, values-driven international engagement in higher education.

U21 is a global network of research-intensive universities committed to advancing international collaboration, innovation, and inclusive excellence. Its annual Global Research and Senior Leaders’ Meeting convenes academic leaders from over 25 member universities to explore shared priorities in research, leadership, and global impact.