The University of Kent and the University of Greenwich are set to merge in 2026 to form the UK’s first super-university called the London and South East University Group.
The new university, which will launch in autumn 2026 under a single vice-chancellor, comes as universities grapple with financial pressures, with 40% of English institutions currently in deficit.
New University Model
The new university will have nearly 50,000 students, operating across existing campuses in Canterbury, Greenwich, Avery Hill, and Medway where both universities already share facilities.
The arrangement will allow each university to retain its name, identity, and campuses while students’ applications and degrees will continue under the Kent and Greenwich names, with no disruption to courses already underway.
“Students can be categorically assured they will complete their studies as planned,” Prof Harrington, current Greenwich Vice Chancellor said.
Prof Jane Harrington (Greenwich) will become vice-chancellor of the merged institution, while Prof Randsley de Moura (Kent) will remain interim leader at Kent until the transition.
The University and College Union (UCU) warned of likely redundancies as a result of the move with its General secretary Jo Grady arguing that the merger resembled “a takeover by Greenwich,” claiming Kent was on the “brink of insolvency.”
Both universities however said there are no immediate plans for job losses whilst acknowledging hat cost savings especially among senior roles would be necessary.
UK Tertiary Education Challenges
The merger comes against a backdrop of mounting financial strain on UK Varsities. While tuition fees rose to an average of £9,535 this academic year, inflation has eroded their value.
International student applications fell 16% short of expectations last year, following visa restrictions that barred dependants from joining students. Ministers are also considering a 6% levy on income from international students.
Universities UK chief executive Vivienne Stern said the Kent-Greenwich deal signalled “a different way of thinking,” but warned of the “slow erosion” of sector finances.
