Global Report Strengthens International Strategy for Technical Professionals
Published: 31 March 2026
A new Universitas 21 and ITSS report, shaped with contributions from the University of Glasgow, brings together global insights on the priorities and challenges facing technical professionals. The findings support the creation of a new U21 Community of Practice to strengthen international collaboration on technical skills and workforce strategy.
A major new report, Global Insights: Technical Professionals in Higher Education and Research, has been published through a collaboration between UK ITSS and the global Universitas 21 network. The University of Glasgow contributed directly to the research, helping ensure that the experiences and priorities of technical staff across Scotland and the UK were represented.
The report brings together international perspectives to build a shared evidence base for strengthening technical skills, professional development, and workforce strategy across higher education and research. It highlights both shared priorities and common challenges faced by technical professionals worldwide, including the need for sustained investment, strategic planning, and recognition of technical expertise.
To support continued collaboration, UK ITSS and Universitas 21 have established a new U21 Community of Practice focused on technical skills and strategy. This international network will enable institutions to exchange best practice, coordinate global approaches, and collectively address workforce needs in an evolving research and education landscape.
The publication of Global Insights marks a significant step in underpinning international efforts to support, develop, and recognise technical professionals who are an essential workforce enabling innovation, research excellence, and world‑class teaching.
Download the report: https://itss.org.uk/publications/
First published: 31 March 2026
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