McMaster University has unveiled a  framework to enhance international partnerships, foster inclusive global learning, and further position McMaster as a leader in addressing global challenges.

The 2025-2030 Global Engagement Strategy outlines seven main goals to help faculty, researchers, students and staff at McMaster connect with partners around the world.

The goals focus on fostering a globally engaged community, promoting inclusivity, enhancing mobility, integrating global learning into academic and extracurricular programs, addressing global challenges through partnerships, empowering faculty for impactful international collaboration, and highlighting McMaster’s achievements to inspire lasting engagement.

Working toward the goals will also promote McMaster’s global success stories to enhance visibility and reputation.

“McMaster’s research and teaching are highly respected around the world and the new strategy is an important guide in how we can support our faculty, students and staff to grow even greater partnerships and impact,” said Susan Tighe, provost and vice-president (Academic).

The new engagement strategy is the result of a year-long, university-wide consultation led by the Office of International Affairs. Its development was led by a 16-member International Strategic Advisory Committee, which includes deans from all six faculties and other senior university leaders.

“The dedication and insight from our community were invaluable,” said Bonny Ibhawoh, vice-provost (International). “This process enabled us to better understand the ambitions of people across McMaster and how we can support their success and focus on key areas for growth.”

McMaster’s consultations spanned cross-campus town halls and meetings at key leadership tables, allowing diverse voices to shape the vision.

The strategy also closely aligns with the recent Strategic Research Plan (2024-2029) and the upcoming international recruitment strategy.

The engagement strategy is expected to encourage and guide global engagement initiatives at all levels of the university, spurring faculties and departments to take the lead in developing innovative efforts, processes, programming and organizational structures that enrich McMaster’s global connections.

The strategy will be treated as a living document that is expected to grow and evolve, Ibhawoh said.

“We look forward to continued collaboration with our international partners as we implement this vision and promote McMaster’s role on the world stage,” he said.