International forum brings best minds to Sydney

The world’s leading researchers and field specialists will descend on Sydney in July to take part in a four-day forum, ‘Universities, Cities and Society in the 21 st Century’, aimed at addressing some of the world’s most pressing and topical debates.

A biennial event, the AC21 International Forum 2004 will be hosted by The University of Sydney and will provide international and Australian academics, industry professionals, government officials, students and the public with the opportunity to share information and perspectives. In particular, the Forum will focus on the roles and responsibilities of universities, cities and society in biotechnology regulation, international exchanges, the use of new learning technologies, management of ageing populations, transport planning and infrastructure and water sustainability.

Vice-Chancellor and Principal of The University of Sydney, Professor Gavin Brown, says he is looking forward to hosting the prestigious event that will offer unique perspectives on debates of national and international significance.

“This event offers local and visiting delegates the chance to engage in stimulating and productive debate on a range of important international issues,” he said. “With speakers from as far afield as Nagoya University, Japan, Brunel University, England and North Carolina State University, USA, flying in to join some of
Australia’s most prominent academics, government regulators and business identities, we anticipate the Forum being of tremendous value to both the delegates who participate as well as the broader community.”

The University of Sydney has designed an academic program for the Forum that consists of an open and public forum addressing the theme ‘Universities, Cities and Society in the 21 st Century’, as well as six satellite forums on topics of mutual interest to AC21 member institutions. The satellite forums are titled:

“The colleges, research centres and faculties of The University of Sydney, responsible for coordinating the various satellite forums, are internationally renowned for their academic excellence and will motivate genuine cooperation from delegates in developing international protocols,” said Professor Brown.

A welcome reception will mark the beginning of the Forum. Other events on the social program include a cocktail reception for AC21 presidents, key industry representatives, professionals and the community and a banquet for university presidents and invited guests. Alongside these social events, the Forum will also facilitate the AC21 Steering Committee Meeting and the AC21 General Assembly to determine the future direction of AC21.

The AC21 International Forum 2004 will be held from Wednesday 21 to Saturday 24 July.