In May 2023, we hosted a member roundtable on governance, convening the sector to discuss and collaborate on responses to the changing landscape in Ireland. We were joined by colleagues Rex Knight and Tadgh Leane, Advance HE Governance Associates, who provided critical reflections on key challenges, and we heard from a variety of members across the sector.
It was clear from the discussions it may be most useful to start by reminding ourselves that an effective higher education governing body has a vital part to play in enabling institutions to achieve their full potential. As is evident in news headlines around the world, accountability and transparency are often seen as key aspects of fulfilling effective governance. The emphasis may tend toward compliance and oversight of day-to-day decision-making. Within the new HEA Act, governing bodies have the chance to re-imagine their role and the purpose of governance, alongside the rest of their community, in shaping and implementing the vision and strategy of their institution.
The Act presents three immediate challenges and opportunities for higher education institutions in Ireland:
- To make the best use of the reduction in size of Governing Authorities
- To secure the right talent and expertise on the new Governing Authority
- To address the Act’s expectations on diversity in governance.
