The universities of Greenwich and Kent have officially announced their merger, creating the UK’s first “super-university.” This new institution, which aims to be the third-largest higher education establishment in the country, will operate under the proposed name of the London and South East University Group. The merger has received formal approval from the Department for Education and the Office for Students.
The merged university group is set to commence operations on August 1, 2026. Both institutions confirmed that they would maintain their distinct academic identities, allowing students to apply to and graduate from the university of their choice. The current vice-chancellor of the University of Greenwich, Prof Jane Harrington, will serve as the designate vice-chancellor of the new entity.
Strategic Move Amid Financial Pressures
The merger was initially proposed in September 2022, with leaders from both universities suggesting it could serve as a “blueprint for others to follow.” Legal documentation has now been signed, confirming the merger’s progression. The formation of this new group comes as UK universities face significant financial challenges, with the Office for Students warning in November that approximately 45% of higher education providers could experience deficits in the 2024-25 academic year.
In light of these pressures, Jo Grady, general secretary of the University and College Union, expressed concerns that the merger reflects “severe financial pressure” within the sector. Nevertheless, the universities assert that the merger will provide a robust financial foundation, enabling them to navigate the current economic climate effectively.
Prof Harrington emphasized the merger’s potential, stating that it would allow the institutions to “continue to provide world-class teaching, grow our research tackling real-world challenges, and ultimately foster a culture where staff, students, and communities thrive, collaborate, and succeed together.”
Leadership and Future Prospects
The new university group will employ all staff from both institutions and will be governed by a unified board, led by a single vice-chancellor and an executive team. Senior executive positions are expected to be announced by April. The acting vice-chancellor of the University of Kent, Prof Georgina Randsley de Moura, is likely to play a significant role in the new leadership structure.
Chair of the governing body at the University of Greenwich, Craig McWilliam, described the merger as a “bold and responsible response” to the challenges facing higher education. He highlighted the importance of strong governance and shared values in ensuring the success of the new group.
While the merger marks a significant shift in the landscape of UK higher education, both universities have assured current and prospective students that their educational experiences will remain unchanged, aside from the added benefits of enhanced resources and opportunities stemming from the merger.
