2020 has been an extraordinary year in the life of the University of Otago – for our students, for our staff, for their families and loved ones, and for the communities that our research and scholarship support.
The COVID-19 pandemic has presented unprecedented challenges, but our people have, universally, stepped up. They have been brave in times of great uncertainty; decisive when bold decisions needed to be made; and so committed in their academic callings they proffered public health information and advice even when it wasn't what people really wanted to hear.
In his book Flu Hunter, Otago-trained global expert Professor Robert Webster warned that nature would challenge us again with an equivalent of the 1918 influenza virus, and of the need to be prepared. Our preparations have, indeed, been tested. At this stage we look to be winning the COVID-19 battle in Aotearoa New Zealand, with some loss and much personal sacrifice, but the outcome is in the balance globally.
The role of universities and research organisations, public- and private-sector alike, cannot be underestimated at this time of national need. In this country our academic freedom is enshrined in law and I am immensely proud of our researchers whose work is making such a substantial contribution to the ongoing fight against COVID-19, as highlighted in this special edition of He Kitenga.
I invite you to read the stories and learn of the years of dedicated effort that went into the training and preparation of each one of the research leaders whose stories are profiled. You will gain an understanding of their dedication to their jobs whilst, in many cases, managing change and uncertainty in their personal lives; of the commitment to teaching and training the next generation of outstanding scholars and leaders to prepare them for future crises; and of the teams of professional and support staff who are equally well trained and contributed just as passionately to the tasks at hand.
As you read this book, please share my pride and join me in giving a shout-out to the collective efforts that have helped shed light on the important issues of some of our darkest hours.
Ngā mihi mahana,
Professor Harlene Hayne
Vice-Chancellor