The Association of Commonwealth Universities ACU

Overview

The Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) is the world's first and oldest international university network, established in 1913. Based in the United Kingdom, the ACU comprises over 400 member institutions across more than 40 countries within the Commonwealth. Its mission is to promote and support excellence in higher education for the benefit of individuals and societies throughout the Commonwealth and beyond. The ACU achieves this by fostering international collaboration, facilitating knowledge exchange, and advocating for the value of higher education globally.

History and Legal Framework

Initially founded as the Universities Bureau of the British Empire in 1913, the organization was renamed the Association of Universities of the British Commonwealth in 1948. In 1963, during its jubilee year, the association received a Royal Charter under its current name, The Association of Commonwealth Universities. This Royal Charter established the ACU as a UK-registered charity with the authority to operate as a corporate body, granting it perpetual succession and the ability to sue and be sued in its corporate name.

Mission, Vision, and Objectives in Higher Education

Mission: The ACU's mission is to serve as a global network of universities committed to building a better world through international collaboration in higher education.

Vision: The ACU envisions a world where universities across the Commonwealth work together to address global challenges, promote sustainable development, and enhance the quality of education and research.

Objectives: The ACU aims to:

• Facilitate international collaboration among member institutions.
• Promote the value and importance of higher education in the Commonwealth.
• Support the professional development of university staff.
• Enhance the quality of teaching and research within member institutions.
• Advocate for policies that support higher education at national and international levels.

Governance, Structure, and Independence

The ACU operates as a UK-registered charity incorporated by Royal Charter. Its governing body, the ACU Council, is responsible for overseeing the organization's activities and determining its strategic direction. The Council comprises up to 23 members, primarily vice-chancellors of ACU member universities, who also serve as trustees. The Council is supported by an executive team led by the Secretary General, who manages the day-to-day operations of the ACU. This governance structure ensures that the ACU remains independent while being closely aligned with the needs and priorities of its member institutions.

Accreditation and Quality Evaluation in Higher Education

While the ACU does not directly accredit institutions, it plays a significant role in promoting quality assurance and enhancement within member universities. The ACU facilitates the sharing of best practices, provides professional development opportunities, and supports collaborative research initiatives aimed at improving the quality of teaching and learning. Through its various programs and networks, the ACU encourages institutions to engage in continuous improvement processes and to adhere to high standards of academic excellence.

International Cooperation and Network Memberships

The ACU is a global network comprising over 400 member universities in more than 40 countries across the Commonwealth. Approximately 70% of its members are located in low and middle-income countries. The ACU fosters international collaboration through various programs, including research partnerships, staff and student exchanges, and joint initiatives addressing global challenges. By connecting universities across diverse regions, the ACU enhances the capacity of its members to contribute to sustainable development and to respond to the evolving needs of society.

Current or Future Impact on Higher Education

The ACU continues to have a significant impact on higher education by:

• Advocating for the value of higher education in addressing global challenges.
• Facilitating international collaboration that enhances research and teaching.
• Supporting the professional development of university staff and leaders.
• Providing a platform for member institutions to influence higher education policy.
• Promoting diversity, inclusion, and equity within the higher education sector.

Looking forward, the ACU aims to strengthen its role as a catalyst for positive change in higher education, ensuring that universities across the Commonwealth are well-equipped to meet the demands of the 21st century.

Summary

The Association of Commonwealth Universities is a pioneering organization that has been at the forefront of promoting international collaboration in higher education for over a century. Through its extensive network of member institutions, the ACU facilitates the exchange of knowledge, supports the professional development of university staff, and advocates for policies that enhance the quality and accessibility of higher education. As the global landscape of higher education continues to evolve, the ACU remains committed to its mission of building a better world through higher education.

FAQs

• What is the Association of Commonwealth Universities?

  The Association of Commonwealth Universities is a UK-registered charity and the world's first and oldest international university network, established in 1913. It comprises over 400 member institutions across more than 40 countries within the Commonwealth.

• What is the mission of the ACU?

  The ACU's mission is to promote and support excellence in higher education for the benefit of individuals and societies throughout the Commonwealth and beyond, through international collaboration.

• How is the ACU governed?

  The ACU is governed by a Council comprising up to 23 members, primarily vice-chancellors of member universities, who also serve as trustees. The Council oversees the organization's activities and strategic direction.

• Does the ACU accredit universities?

  No, the ACU does not directly accredit universities. However, it supports quality assurance and enhancement through various programs that promote best practices and continuous improvement.

• How can universities join the ACU?

  Universities interested in joining the ACU can apply through the membership section on the ACU's official website. Membership is open to universities in Commonwealth countries that share the ACU's commitment to international collaboration in higher education.

Organization Name

The Association of Commonwealth Universities

Acronym

ACU

Year of Establishment

1/01/1913

Control Type

Private

Entity Type

Non-Profit

Geo Focus and Coverage

International

Recognized by

n.a.

Affiliations or Memberships

n.a.

Number of Member Universities or Accredited Institutions

more than 520

Address

Woburn House, 20-24 Tavistock Square
London
WC1H 9HF London United Kingdom

Phone

+44 (20) 7380 6700

Fax

+44 (20) 7387 2655

Africa

1. Eswatini
   1. University of Eswatini
2. Gambia, The
   1. The University of the Gambia
3. Ghana
   1. All Nations University
   2. Ghana Communication Technology University
   3. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi
   4. Takoradi Technical University
   5. University for Development Studies
   6. University of Cape Coast
   7. University of Education Winneba
   8. University of Energy and Natural Resources
   9. University of Ghana
   10. University of Media, Arts and Communication (UniMAC)
   11. University of Mines and Technology
   12. University of Professional Studies, Accra
4. Kenya
   1. Aga Khan University in East Africa
   2. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology
   3. KCA University
   4. Kenya Methodist University
   5. Kenyatta University
   6. Kibabii University
   7. Kisii University
   8. Machakos University
   9. Maseno University
   10. South Eastern Kenya University
   11. Strathmore University
   12. The Co-operative University of Kenya
   13. The Technical University of Kenya
   14. University of Nairobi
5. Lesotho
   1. National University of Lesotho
6. Malawi
   1. Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences
   2. Malawi University of Science and Technology
   3. Mzuzu University
   4. University of Malawi
7. Mauritius
   1. Open University of Mauritius
   2. University of Mauritius
   3. University of Technology Mauritius
8. Namibia
   1. University of Namibia
9. Nigeria
   1. Adeleke University
   2. Afe Babalola University
   3. Ahmadu Bello University
   4. Alex Ekwueme Federal University
   5. Bowen University
   6. Covenant University
   7. Ebonyi State University
   8. Federal University Lokoja
   9. Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta
   10. Federal University of Technology Minna
   11. Lagos State University
   12. Lead City University
   13. Niger Delta University
   14. Olabisi Onabanjo University
   15. Osun State University
   16. University of Abuja
   17. University of Ibadan
   18. University of Ilorin
   19. University of Jos
   20. University of Lagos
   21. University of Port Harcourt
   22. Usmanu Danfodiyo University
   23. Yaba College of Technology
10. Seychelles
    1. University of Seychelles
11. South Africa
    1. Cape Peninsula University of Technology
    2. Durban University of Technology
    3. Nelson Mandela University
    4. North-West University
    5. Rhodes University
    6. Stellenbosch University
    7. Tshwane University of Technology
    8. University of Cape Town
    9. University of Johannesburg
    10. University of KwaZulu-Natal
    11. University of Mpumalanga
    12. University of Pretoria
    13. University of South Africa
    14. University of the Free State
    15. University of the Western Cape
    16. University of the Witwatersrand Johannesburg
    17. University of Venda
12. Tanzania
    1. Aga Khan University Institute for Educational Development, East Africa
    2. Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences
    3. The State University of Zanzibar
    4. University of Dar es Salaam
13. Uganda
    1. Aga Khan University, Kampala
    2. Bugema University
    3. Busitema University
    4. ISBAT University
    5. Kampala International University
    6. Kyambogo University
    7. Makerere University
    8. Mbarara University of Science and Technology
    9. Muteesa I Royal University
14. Zambia
    1. DMI - St.Eugene University
    2. Mulungushi University
    3. University of Lusaka
15. Zimbabwe
    1. Africa University
    2. Bindura University of Science Education
    3. National University of Science and Technology

Asia

1. Bangladesh
   1. Bangladesh Agricultural University
   2. Bangladesh Open University
   3. Bangladesh University of Business and Technology
   4. BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology
   5. Brac University
   6. Daffodil International University
   7. International University of Business Agriculture and Technology
   8. North South University
   9. University of Asia Pacific
   10. University of Chittagong
   11. University of Dhaka
   12. University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh
   13. World University of Bangladesh
2. Brunei Darussalam
   1. Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali
3. Hong Kong
   1. Chinese University of Hong Kong
   2. The University of Hong Kong
4. India
   1. Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research
   2. Ajeenkya DY Patil University
   3. Alagappa University
   4. Aligarh Muslim University
   5. Amity University Noida
   6. Amity University Rajasthan
   7. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
   8. Andhra University
   9. Apex Professional University
   10. ATLAS SkillTech University
   11. Atria Institute of Technology
   12. B P S Mahila Vishwavidyalaya
   13. Banasthali University
   14. Bennett University
   15. Berhampur University
   16. Bhagwant University
   17. Bharathiar University
   18. Bharathidasan University
   19. Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani
   20. Brainware University
   21. Chandigarh University
   22. Christ University
   23. CMR University
   24. Cochin University of Science and Technology
   25. D Y Patil Deemed to be University
   26. Dayananda Sagar University
   27. Deenbandhu Chhotu Ram University of Science and Technology
   28. Dharmsinh Desai University
   29. Doctor D Y Patil University
   30. Dr B R Ambedkar Open University
   31. Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University Delhi
   32. English and Foreign Languages University
   33. Era University
   34. Galgotias University
   35. Gandhigram Rural University
   36. Ganpat University
   37. GITAM University
   38. Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya
   39. Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University
   40. Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology
   41. Guru Nanak Dev University
   42. Hemchandracharya North Gujarat University
   43. Hidayatullah National Law University
   44. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science
   45. Indian Institute of Science
   46. Jagran Lakecity University
   47. Jain (Deemed-to-be University)
   48. Jamia Millia Islamia
   49. Kalinga Institute of Social Sciences
   50. Karnataka State Open University
   51. Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences
   52. KIIT University
   53. Kurukshetra University
   54. Kuvempu University
   55. Lovely Professional University
   56. Madhya Pradesh Bhoj (Open) University
   57. Maharaja Sriram Chandra Bhanja Deo University
   58. Maharishi Markandeshwar University
   59. Maharshi Dayanand University
   60. Mandsaur University
   61. Manipal Academy of Higher Education
   62. Manonmaniam Sundaranar University
   63. Marwadi University
   64. Mother Teresa Women's University
   65. NALSAR University of Law
   66. National Forensic Sciences University
   67. National Institute of Ayurveda
   68. National Law University, Delhi
   69. National Law University, Jodhpur
   70. Nirma University
   71. North-Eastern Hill University
   72. O P Jindal Global University
   73. Osmania University
   74. Panjab University
   75. Pondicherry University
   76. Presidency University
   77. Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Punjab
   78. REVA University
   79. Sant Gadge Baba Amravati University
   80. SGT University
   81. Shivaji University
   82. Shoolini University of Biotechnology and Management Sciences
   83. Singhania University
   84. Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology
   85. Sri Padmavati Mahila Visvavidyalayam
   86. Srinivas University
   87. SRM Institute of Science and Technology
   88. SRM University Delhi-NCR, Sonepat
   89. SVKM's NMIMS (Deemed to be University)
   90. Tamil Nadu Doctor M G R Medical University
   91. Tata Institute of Social Sciences
   92. The Assam Royal Global University
   93. The ICFAI Foundation for Higher Education
   94. The ICFAI University, Dehradun
   95. The ICFAI University, Jaipur
   96. The ICFAI University, Jharkhand
   97. The ICFAI University, Meghalaya
   98. The ICFAI University, Mizoram
   99. The ICFAI University, Nagaland
   100. The ICFAI University, Sikkim
   101. The ICFAI University, Tripura
   102. The IIS University
   103. University of Calicut
   104. University of Delhi
   105. University of Jammu
   106. University of Kerala
   107. University of Mumbai
   108. University of Mysore
   109. Vellore Institute of Technology
   110. Yashwantrao Chavan Maharashtra Open University
5. Malaysia
   1. Asia e University
   2. Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU)
   3. GlobalNxt University
   4. Jesselton University College
   5. Lincoln University College, Malaysia
   6. Management and Science University
   7. Nilai University Malaysia
   8. Quest International University
   9. Raffles University Iskandar
   10. Saito University College, Malaysia
   11. Sultan Azlan Shah University
   12. Universiti Malaya
   13. Universiti Putra Malaysia
   14. University of Cyberjaya
6. Maldives
   1. Avid College
   2. Maldives Business School
   3. Maldives National University
   4. Villa College
7. Pakistan
   1. Aga Khan University
   2. Bahria University
   3. Balochistan University of Engineering and Technology Khuzdar
   4. Balochistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences
   5. Capital University of Science and Technology, Islamabad
   6. COMSATS University Islamabad
   7. Fatima Jinnah Women University
   8. Institute for Art and Culture
   9. Institute of Business Management
   10. NUR International University
   11. Pakistan Institute of Fashion and Design
   12. Riphah International University
   13. Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology
   14. Ziauddin University
8. Singapore
   1. National University of Singapore
9. Sri Lanka
   1. Bhiksu University of Sri Lanka
   2. Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka
   3. Business Management School
   4. CINEC Campus (Private) Limited
   5. Eastern University, Sri Lanka
   6. ESOFT Metro Campus
   7. General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University
   8. Horizon Campus
   9. International College of Business and Technology
   10. KIU Sri Lanka
   11. NSBM Green University
   12. Open University of Sri Lanka
   13. SLTC - Sri Lanka Technological Campus
   14. South Eastern University of Sri Lanka
   15. Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology
   16. Sri Lanka International Buddhist Academy
   17. University of Colombo Sri Lanka
   18. University of Jaffna, Sri Lanka
   19. University of Kelaniya Sri Lanka
   20. University of Moratuwa Sri Lanka
   21. University of Peradeniya Sri Lanka
   22. University of Ruhuna
   23. University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
   24. University of the Visual and Performing Arts
   25. University of Vocational Technology

Caribbean and Americas

1. Barbados
   1. American University of Barbados School of Medicine
2. Belize
   1. Galen University
   2. University of Belize
3. Canada
   1. Athabasca University
   2. Dalhousie University
   3. McGill University
   4. McMaster University
   5. Memorial University of Newfoundland
   6. Queen's University at Kingston
   7. University of Calgary
   8. University of Ottawa
   9. University of Saskatchewan
   10. University of Toronto
   11. University of Victoria
   12. Western University
   13. York University
4. Cayman Islands, The
   1. University College of the Cayman Islands
5. Guyana
   1. Texila American University
   2. University of Guyana
6. Jamaica
   1. Caribbean Maritime University
   2. The University of the West Indies
7. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
   1. Saint James School of Medicine
8. St Kitts and Nevis
   1. University of Medicine and Health Sciences (UMHS)

Europe

1. Cyprus
   1. Philips University
   2. Unicaf University
   3. University of Cyprus
   4. University of Nicosia
2. Gibraltar
   1. University of Gibraltar (Educational Affiliate)
3. Malta
   1. Global College Malta
   2. University of Malta
4. United Kingdom
   1. Arden University
   2. Bangor University
   3. Bath Spa University
   4. Birmingham City University
   5. Bloomsbury Institute
   6. Bournemouth University
   7. Brunel University London
   8. Buckinghamshire New University
   9. Cardiff Metropolitan University
   10. Cardiff University
   11. City St George's, University of London
   12. Coventry University
   13. Cranfield University
   14. De Montfort University
   15. Durham University
   16. Hartpury University
   17. Heriot-Watt University
   18. King's College London
   19. Lancaster University
   20. Leeds Trinity University
   21. Liverpool John Moores University
   22. Loughborough University
   23. Manchester Metropolitan University
   24. Newcastle University
   25. Northeastern University London
   26. Northumbria University
   27. Oxford Brookes University
   28. Plymouth University
   29. Queen Mary University of London
   30. Queen's University Belfast
   31. Royal Holloway, University of London
   32. School of Oriental and African Studies
   33. Sheffield Hallam University
   34. Swansea University
   35. Teesside University
   36. The Open University
   37. The University of Manchester
   38. Ulster University
   39. University College London
   40. University of Aberdeen
   41. University of Bath
   42. University of Birmingham
   43. University of Bristol
   44. University of Cambridge
   45. University of Chester
   46. University of East London
   47. University of Edinburgh
   48. University of Exeter
   49. University of Glasgow
   50. University of Greenwich
   51. University of Hull
   52. University of Leeds
   53. University of Leicester
   54. University of Liverpool
   55. University of London
   56. University of Northampton
   57. University of Nottingham
   58. University of Oxford
   59. University of Reading
   60. University of Salford
   61. University of Sheffield
   62. University of Southampton
   63. University of St Andrews
   64. University of Stirling
   65. University of Strathclyde
   66. University of Sussex
   67. University of the Arts London
   68. University of the West of England
   69. University of the West of Scotland
   70. University of Wales Trinity Saint David
   71. University of Warwick
   72. University of West London
   73. University of Westminster
   74. University of Winchester
   75. University of York

Pacific

1. Australia
   1. Australian National University
   2. Charles Sturt University
   3. Edith Cowan University
   4. Griffith University
   5. La Trobe University
   6. Macquarie University
   7. Monash University
   8. Murdoch University
   9. The University of Western Australia
   10. University of Melbourne
   11. University of Sydney
   12. UNSW Sydney
   13. Western Sydney University
2. Fiji
   1. Fiji National University
   2. The University of Fiji
   3. The University of the South Pacific
3. New Zealand
   1. Auckland University of Technology
   2. Lincoln University
   3. Massey University
   4. University of Canterbury
   5. University of Otago
4. Papua New Guinea
   1. Divine Word University
   2. Papua New Guinea University of Technology
   3. University of Papua New Guinea
5. Samoa
   1. National University of Samoa

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Wikipedia Article

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