SOAS launches 2026-2030 strategy

SOAS’s bold new vision has been launched in the 2026-2030 SOAS Strategy.

The new strategy builds on the strong foundations of our previous strategic plan while recognising the shifting and significant challenges that our sector faces. 

It aims to consolidate and deepen our engagement in our regions, bolster research intensity and excellence, and enhance research-based teaching, placing the student experience at the centre.

SOAS Vice-Chancellor Professor Adam Habib said: “There is a tremendous amount of work going on across SOAS and I would like to thank everyone involved.  The ability of teams and individuals to work together so effectively is fundamental to our continued success as a university and something I am very proud to be part of. Our dedication and determination to deliver for our students and wider global community makes me confident that together we can realise the ambitions set out in this new plan.” 

The strategy places financial sustainability at its centre and reaffirms our mission as an excellent, research-intensive university that equips its graduates with the knowledge, skills and experience they need to effectively contribute to a globally just future. It will be further strengthened and supported by our Education Plan and Research Plan.

The six areas of focus which will guide our work over the next five years: 

• Grow postgraduate student recruitment
• Expand educational access and choice
• Reprioritise expenditure
• Scale-up partnerships
• Strengthen academic structure and voice
• Embed sustainability to safeguard our planet 

The full strategy can be found on the SOAS website.