In action

The University of Sydney is a community committed to maximising the potential of the students, teachers and researchers who work and study here. It is unique among the world’s leading universities in the breadth of disciplines it offers its 45,000 undergraduate and postgraduate students, providing them with wide scope for personal development as well as the opportunity for cross-disciplinary work that delivers solutions for the benefit of Australia and the wider world.

Here is a snapshot of our success and initiative across a range of activities, taken from the University's 2008 Annual Report.

Sustainable Sydney

Green grass

Australia's focus on environmental issues intensified throughout 2008, spurred by warnings from officials and scientists that the world is facing accelerated climate change. The University of Sydney is at the forefront of those developing solutions for these pressing challenges.

The student experience

Photo of students laughing

Student involvement is core to the life of the University of Sydney. "What makes Sydney distinct is the breadth of experience that students get," says current student Andrew McLeod. "That's not just from the academic side of things but also the extracurricular activities you can engage in."

Excelling in China

Photo of Olympic medal

As a new semester begins, most University of Sydney students are preparing to settle back into study and campus life. However in August 2008, 20 University athletes prepared for a very different challenge – representing Australia on the biggest sporting stage of them all.

Responding to the global financial crisis

Photo of stock exchange screen

The global credit crunch has led to widespread debate and calls for regulatory reform. The University of Sydney has hosted major international figures to debate the issues – and its researchers are among those delivering the responses that governments seek.

Teaching the teachers

Photo of schoolchildren

Nobody forgets a good teacher. The Sydney Theatre Company and the University of Sydney have launched a program that aims to promote drama as a powerful medium for literacy in young learners, while providing innovative learning Opportunities for teachers.

Tackling obesity

Photo of Jennie Brand-Miller

In June 2008 we were shocked to learn that Australia has become the most obese nation in the world. In response to the problem the University of Sydney announced it will focus its already significant research expertise in the fight against obesity and related illnesses by setting up a world-class $385 million centre.