Education Minister denies Victoria University's application to change name

December 18, 2018
The university’s council today signed off on the plan.

An application to legally change the name of Victoria University has been declined by Education Minister Chris Hipkins.

It comes after the Victoria University of Wellington Council made a formal application to change its name to the University of Wellington.

Mr Hipkins says he took into consideration the supporting information the tertiary educator provided and advice from officials.

The Education Minister received more than 450 letters from students, alumni and others who mostly were against the name change.

“Given the level of opposition to the University’s recommendation, including by its own staff, students and alumni, I am not persuaded that the recommendation is consistent with the demands of accountability and the national interest,” says Mr Hipkins.

An online petition saw more than 10,000 signatures opposing the name change.

Chancellor Neil Paviour-Smith said the council would consider the decision before commenting. 


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