SOAS growth proves humanities still matter in a world of STEM

Lord Dr Michael Hastings of Scarisbrick CBE reflects on SOAS's growth, the importance of the humanities, and the progress SOAS is making in realising its strategic vision.

When I joined SOAS University of London in 2021 as the Chair of the Board of Trustees, I remarked that it was an optimistic moment for the university. We published a new strategic agenda that centres research, graduate studies, and equitable international partnerships. I also said I wanted to see a SOAS where we can fully ignite the thrill of learning, debate, and positive enquiry.  

SOAS's investment and growth

This is why it now gives me great pleasure to see our collective vision coming to life. Our latest financial statement, published at the end of last year, shows SOAS continuing to buck the trend with attracting students - and the significant role we have in making a positive difference in our world. I urge you to take time and read our story from the 2023 Annual Report – a solid foundation now for the years ahead.  

SOAS’s academic programmes seek to examine issues such as climate change, political and social polarisation through a global lens. And for three consecutive years SOAS has seen continued growth in undergraduate students, up by 7% on the previous year demonstrating that the demand – and need - for humanities degrees remains strong. 

The improved budgetary management and strong financial controls have contributed to delivering an operation surplus of £4.5 million. This is a testament to effective leadership, improved governance arrangements, and investment in people led by a strong cohort of trustees who share SOAS’s global vision. 

For three consecutive years SOAS has seen continued growth in undergraduate students, up by 7% on the previous year demonstrating that the demand – and need - for humanities degrees remains strong. 

SOAS has continued to build on its solid foundations by investing in its campus and infrastructure. Estate improvements have led to refreshed lecture halls, a revitalised home for the Students' Union, and a warm welcome is offered in the reception area. 

Additionally, a more streamlined committee process has enabled more emphasis on accountability and visionary thinking, alongside the creation of the College structure, to enhance the role of our academics and strengthen the delivery of our scholarship programmes. 

Our expertise and graduates have global reach and impact

SOAS continues to realise our role as a research-intensive university that is responsive to the marginalised communities in our world. Last year we noted that income in research grants grew to £7.3 million compared to £6.1 million the previous year. This year we begin with a major new award worth nearly £8 million - secured by SOAS anthropologists - for a new mental health research centre in London. The centre will help to tackle some of the most difficult issues related to mental health and inequality. 

Despite the drive towards STEM in the current political climate, humanities degrees are fundamental to understanding people, societies and cultures and play a critical role in many of the challenges and conflicts that we see today.

SOAS is small and specialist, but our expertise and our graduates have global reach and impact. Despite the drive towards STEM in the current political climate, humanities degrees are fundamental to understanding people, societies and cultures and play a critical role in understanding many of the challenges and conflicts that we see today. Our growth in student numbers and research grants, and our investment in the future reflect a stronger and more confident SOAS.   

I and all our trustees are hugely grateful to the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellors, our College Heads, our highly tuned and widely respected academic faculty and our executive leaders and all colleagues all of whom combine to secure a confident positive and inclusive culture at SOAS delivering this incredible success and securing a bright future for our community.