ANDREW Barr and Meegan Fitzharris have acknowledged the role Professor Stephen Parker AO has played as University of Canberra Vice-Chancellor and thank him for his contribution to Canberra.

“Professor Parker has grown UC’s education and research credentials and advanced the institution’s international reputation during his tenure,” Andrew said.

“UC was recognised earlier this month as one of the best young universities in the world in the Times Higher Education 150 Under 50 Rankings 2016. This followed a ranking among the top five per cent of institutions in the QS World University rankings in 2015.

“Professor Parker was made Officer of the Order of Australia as part of the Australia Day Honours in 2014, and leaves the role after a nine-year term, which saw great change for the University.

“I had the pleasure of accompanying Professor Parker in April 2016 to the East China University of Science and Technology in Shanghai, with whom UC has had a joint MBA program since 2000 for senior executives in the private and public sectors. I witnessed firsthand the benefits of years of work to strengthen UC’s international ties and establish the alumni group.

“Professor Parker recently secured more than $1 billion in investment for campus developments over the next 20 years, including 3,300 campus residences.

“Universities are a major employer in Canberra and playing to our strengths in higher education and research is a key part of the government’s strategy to diversify our economy. The work that Professor Parker has done to build the University of Canberra’s research capacity and attract more students to Canberra has been a significant boost to our city.”

Minister Fitzharris recognised Professor Parker’s tireless work to modernise and grow the University’s facilities for students.

“During his time as Vice-Chancellor, Professor Parker has paved the way for the development of the University of Canberra Public Hospital, which will provide a range of rehabilitation services, treat mental health conditions and provide targeted services and care for older Canberrans,” Meegan said.

“In 2015, he also saw school fees waived for the children of higher degree research students in order to help UC attract top researchers to Canberra.

“Professor Parker’s next challenge will be to grow The Conversation’s expanding global network, which aims to make research and expertise at universities available to the wider public.

“He will be succeeded by Vice-President of the University of Toronto Professor H. Deep Saini.

“I wish Professor Parker all the best with his new role, and welcome Professor Saini to Canberra,” Minister Fitzharris said.