Principal to lead national university transformation work

Professor Dame Sally Mapstone has been appointed to lead the sector-led transformation pillar of the Future Framework for the Sustainability and Success of Scotland’s Universities, a major initiative jointly owned by Universities Scotland and the Scottish Government.

The transformation work will explore how Scotland’s universities can work more sustainably and collaboratively in the future, building on recent analysis of the sector’s financial challenges. As Chair of the transformation pillar, the Principal will work with universities across Scotland to identify opportunities for greater efficiency, stronger partnerships, and new approaches that support long-term resilience.

In an interview with The Herald, the Principal described the work as an opportunity to consider a wide range of options, with “no red lines” on discussions about how the sector could evolve. Potential areas for exploration include enhanced research partnerships, shared curricula, joint infrastructure, and increased use of automation, while ensuring decisions continue to support students and communities across Scotland.

The Principal also highlighted the importance of preserving the strengths of Scotland’s distinctive four-year degree model, describing it as a valuable feature of Scottish higher education and a key factor in widening access and student opportunity.

The appointment reflects the Principal’s extensive leadership experience across the higher education sector, including her recent role as President of Universities UK and her longstanding contribution to sector reform and widening participation.

Find out more about the Future Framework and the transformation pillar on the Universities Scotland website.