A message from Steve Armstrong, chair of the University of East London Board of Governors

It is a privilege to introduce this year’s Annual Report as Chair of the Board of Governors. Governance at the University of East London begins with purpose: to transform lives by preparing inclusive talent for the opportunities of the future while addressing health and economic inequalities. Over the past year, the Board has seen that mission delivered with clarity, courage and measurable impact.

Today, UEL contributes more than £1 billion annually to the UK economy, placing the University among the nation’s leading civic institutions. Without this contribution, the impact on our region would be stark. To illustrate the scale, the total estimated economic loss - when divided across all households in Newham, London’s most populous inner borough - would amount to nearly £5,000 per household each year. Combined with the loss of around 4,000 jobs and £7.7 million in local enterprise, demonstrating how UEL stands as a national exemplar of resilience, innovation and evidence-based impact. 

The Board’s role is to ensure that ambition is matched by stewardship. Sustainable growth with purpose – integral to our Vision 2028 strategy - continues to deliver sector-leading, diversified revenue growth while maintaining a robust balance sheet, positioning UEL within a small group of universities operating without debt. This fiscal strength carries moral weight: it enables targeted investment in student support, research and infrastructure that widen participation, reduce inequality and accelerate social mobility. 

I have seen this investment first-hand. The launch of the Neighbourhood Health Hub at Stratford, a flagship initiative within the University’s Year of Health, exemplifies how education and community impact can work in tandem. It was a privilege to attend the opening and witness how the Hub will improve health outcomes for residents while equipping students with real-world experience that will help them excel in their professional careers. 

The Board’s oversight extends to risk, assurance and regulatory compliance. This year, we reviewed and refreshed frameworks for freedom of speech and academic freedom to meet new statutory requirements while upholding UEL’s ethos of inclusive debate and mutual respect. We also strengthened digital and data governance to ensure effective decision-making and safeguard our community, and we oversaw the expansion of Practice Based Centres to guarantee that placements, live briefs and simulations remain integrated, high-quality and safe. 

Sustainability remains a strategic imperative. The Board approved major investment in decarbonisation, including the expansion of our multi-year Siemens partnership into a true “living lab” for teaching, research and green skills. Our initiatives with Siemens will cut emissions, de-risk our energy costs and provide authentic learning environments, exactly the kind of systemic, future-facing innovation that effective governance should enable. 

Leadership, too, is a balance of continuity and renewal. We pay tribute to colleagues whose dedication has laid the foundation for UEL’s success and welcome new figures who will shape its next chapter. The appointment of the Rt Hon Lord Aamer Sarfraz of Kensington as UEL’s fourth Chancellor will amplify the University’s mission globally, strengthening connections between education, enterprise and society. The Board also extends its thanks to the Students’ Union, alumni, employer partners and civic partners whose insight and advocacy continue to shape our priorities and extend our reach. 

UEL has achieved a rare and radical transformation, redefining what a modern university can accomplish in uncertain times. As one of the UK’s most socially inclusive institutions, its progress has been profound, delivering economic, social and educational value at unmatched pace and scale. 

My thanks go to the Vice-Chancellor & President, the Executive Board and the University’s staff, students, partners and alumni. Their talent, resilience and ambition give life to Vision 2028 and meaning to our mission. As an alumnus, I know first-hand what a UEL education makes possible. As Chair, I am confident that the University is exceptionally well governed, financially strong and strategically positioned to deliver even greater impact in the year ahead. Together, we will continue to raise our game to ensure that opportunity is not a privilege for the few, but a promise delivered for the many. 

With best wishes,

Steve Armstrong

Chair, Board of Governors