UK’s First ‘Super-University’ to Launch in 2026 as Kent and Greenwich Join Forces
In a groundbreaking move for higher education, the UK is set to unveil its first “super-university” in 2026.
The Universities of Kent and Greenwich will merge to form the London and South East University Group, a new institution that will span an entire region and serve nearly 50,000 students.
The announcement, confirmed by both universities and supported by England’s higher education regulator, marks a bold step as universities across the country grapple with funding pressures, rising operational costs, and the shifting landscape of student recruitment.
The new institution will be led by a single vice-chancellor from autumn 2026, with Prof Jane Harrington, currently heading Greenwich, taking the helm.
Prof Georgina Randsley de Moura, who is interim vice-chancellor at Kent, will lead until the formal transition takes place.
In an exclusive interview, Prof Harrington explained: “This is about taking the best of both universities and saying what do we want to offer to our communities.”
The universities have worked together for two decades at the Medway campus, sharing facilities like libraries and classrooms.
This merger is intended to build on that collaboration, creating a financially resilient and regionally influential university that delivers world-class teaching, research, and community impact.
The universities believe the new structure will offer greater stability amid the sector’s ongoing funding challenges.
The Department for Education welcomed the initiative, stating that ministers “welcome innovative approaches such as this one,” while the Office for Students suggested it could pave the way for further collaborations between universities.
Higher education in the UK enters a transformative era as two major institutions announce an unprecedented merger. The Universities of Kent and Greenwich will combine forces to create Britain’s first super-university, launching in autumn 2026.https://t.co/M2VKAvVPE4 pic.twitter.com/R7WY6eV9tR
— StockPil (@StockPilNews) September 10, 2025
With tuition fees rising to £9,535 this academic year and the real value eroded by inflation, institutions are under pressure.
International student applications are down, particularly after new visa rules affected enrolment.
Around 40% of English universities are now believed to be running deficits, with job cuts becoming increasingly common.
However, not everyone is convinced. The University and College Union (UCU) expressed concerns, warning that redundancies are “almost certain.”
General Secretary Jo Grady said: “What is being described as a merger is a takeover by Greenwich as Kent was on the brink of insolvency.
I also think this is a broader problem for the sector. Both of these institutions should have been on the government’s radar, and rather than stepping in, we’re seeing that this is how a crisis is managed.
This isn’t offering stability to students, to staff or to the sector.”
For students, the transition will be seamless. Applications will continue as usual, and degrees will be awarded under the existing university names.
Prof Harrington assured students: “I can tell students absolutely categorically they can complete any course they are already enrolled on, including those starting university this autumn.”
This reassurance aims to quell fears of disruption or uncertainty. While no immediate job cuts are planned, both universities have had to implement cost-saving measures in recent years.
Greenwich confirmed earlier this year that it would be cutting the equivalent of 15 full-time posts by August. Kent, meanwhile, has already begun winding down some courses.
Staff at Kent’s Canterbury campus expressed anxiety upon hearing the news. One employee, speaking anonymously, told the BBC: “It feels very last-minute… It’s almost certain that roles are going to be cut, and morale is very low.”
The UCU estimates around 5,000 jobs have been lost across English universities over the past few years.
This merger is the largest of its kind. Previously, smaller consolidations like those at the University of the Highlands and Islands have taken place, and City St George’s was formed from two parts of the University of London just last year.
The new grouping stands out because of its scale, full range of courses, and broad geographical coverage.
The government’s review of university funding is expected later this autumn. Proposals such as a 6% tax on income from international students are also on the table as ministers seek long-term solutions.
Universities UK’s Vivienne Stern described the move as “significant,” highlighting the need to halt the “slow erosion” of finances.
A Department for Education spokesperson concluded: “This collaboration shows how strong partnerships in higher education can help enable delivery of world-class teaching and research whilst maintaining the best interests of students.”
The Office for Students emphasised that safeguarding student experience is a priority. “Current students will continue to study for the courses they signed up for, and should continue to expect excellent teaching and support,” the regulator confirmed.
