Statement on academic freedom

The Chair of Universities New Zealand, Professor Harlene Hayne, says it is critical that researchers, including academics, have access to relevant data to build a body of knowledge to help drive innovation and economic growth and to identify and help resolve social issues.

“As academics we accept that research data needs to be confidential and anonymised so that individuals cannot be identified.  But we do not accept constraints on the findings, or the publishing of unfavourable results.  Research enables government and communities to identify and take steps to address issues.” 

Universities New Zealand is monitoring the current issue and working with New Zealand’s eight universities to identify whether there is a wider trend that could impact on academics’ ability to carry out robust research to inform New Zealand decision-making.

Under the Education Act universities have a responsibility for being the critic and conscience of society.  Professor Hayne says academics want to do their job to the best of their ability and to the benefit of New Zealand.

Background

- Professor Hayne is the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Otago

- Under Section 162 of the Education Act 1989 universities have a role as critic and conscience of society