The Institute is a pioneering initiative designed to reform curricula and deliver personalised learning, placing Queen’s at the forefront of educational transformation. 

The gift from the McKay Family Foundation will support the critical first phase of the Institute, which will include the appointment of a leading expert to drive the vision forward and ensure a full team is in place to redesign curricula and assessment in line with principles of Universal Design for Learning. 

Funding will also enable a PhD studentship to develop practical toolkits and resources that embed inclusive design across teaching and student services. 

Welcoming the investment, Professor Judy Williams, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Education and Students, said:

“Our vision is to make education fully inclusive and accessible, breaking down barriers in current practice and recognising diverse ways of thinking, learning and communicating. 

“The Global Institute for Educational Excellence has the potential to create lasting impact, not just at Queen’s, but across global education systems.  The reform of curriculum and assessment across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes will reduce barriers to learning and offer personalised educational experiences for every student.   

“This generous philanthropic commitment will enable Queen’s to drive cultural change across the University, ensuring inclusion and accessibility are embedded into education from the outset, while equipping our graduates with the skills needed for a rapidly changing world.” 

Martin McKay of the McKay Family Foundation added:

“Education has the power to change lives, but only if it is designed to recognise and support the diverse ways people learn. 

“The McKay Family Foundation is proud to support Queen’s vision for the Global Institute for Educational Excellence, which places inclusion and accessibility at the heart of education. This investment reflects our belief that universities have a vital role to play in shaping a fairer, more adaptable future for students and society.” 

The gift complements Queen’s own investment and underpins a wider three-year programme to establish the Institute as an internationally recognised centre of excellence.   

Pro-Chancellor and Chair of Queen’s University’s Senate, Dr Len O’Hagan, said:

“This gift will help deliver inclusive and equitable opportunities for all students through a personalised and innovative education experience, empowering them to achieve their full academic and professional potential.  

“This is the power of philanthropy and we are so thankful to the McKay Family Foundation for investing in the future of our young people.”