More than 20 Higher Education Institutions have now signed up to a ground-breaking network that seeks to tackle humanity's greatest challenges and unlock a fair future for all.
Vrije Universiteit (VU) Amsterdam is the 21st institution to sign the Declaration on Knowledge Equity and join the Knowledge Equity Network, which was co-founded by the University of Leeds.
The goal of the Network is to transform academic culture by making knowledge accessible to all and providing equal opportunities to thrive.
The Network provides access to a diverse, values-driven community with global reach, fostering influential conversations advocating the benefits of knowledge equity. Through the collective intercultural creativity unlocked by knowledge equity the Network will generate the leadership and solutions to tackle global challenges and reduce inequalities.
The signing of the Declaration demonstrates a commitment to collaboration and making a positive difference in the world.
To celebrate the signing, VU Amsterdam hosted a full-day Knowledge Equity Symposium. Speakers from VU and international partner universities highlighted the importance of knowledge equity in keynote addresses and panel discussions.
A session on the Network was led on behalf of the University of Leeds by University Librarian and Keeper of the Brotherton Collection, Masud Khokhar, who co-signed the Declaration with Jeroen Geurts, Rector Magnificus at VU Amsterdam.
Masud said: "The signing of the Declaration demonstrates a commitment to collaboration and making a positive difference in the world. We will work together to drive fair access to knowledge and continue to build an open academic culture."
Jeroen Geurts said: "Signing the Declaration on Knowledge Equity marks a significant milestone for VU Amsterdam, as we commit to promoting equitable and inclusive access to scientific knowledge.
"This fits perfectly to our belief that openness, sustainability, and diversity are fundamental to advancing research and education. We are very excited about the journey ahead, working collaboratively within the Knowledge Equity Network to create a more inclusive and diverse academic landscape."
Professor Hai-Sui Yu, Interim Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Leeds, said: "The Knowledge Equity Network is gathering momentum and we are pleased to welcome VU Amsterdam, an institution that is values driven and leading the way in open access.
"By breaking down the barriers that prevent equitable access to knowledge across institutions and geopolitical boundaries, we are attracting signatories from around the world. We all share a commitment to building a culture of equity, diversity, inclusion and openness that will support the transition to a fairer and better world."
