From 2000 onward groups of university scholars, leaders and becoming leaders in their fields, have gathered together via digital video link - bringing together the UK and continental Europe, the USA, Australia and Asia, among other areas.

The discussions have centred on a simple, yet fundamental question: "What makes a great university, and how can each of us contribute to the creation of such universities?" Some of the participants in these links have been located in institutions rated in the world's top 20 institutions; some have been in institutions rated far further down any 'league tables'. But all have recognised that the creation of a great university involves the contribution and determination of the individual, combined with a commitment to leadership in higher learning and the ability to work together for a greater good.

If you are interested in these things, whether as an individual scholar or as a leader of scholars and their students, you are welcome to join us. Further links and activities occur annually that contribute to the development of the world's greatest universities; and we welcome anyone who wishes to be involved in the Great Universities network to make contact: directorate