The University of Wales is one of the nation's most treasured and valued assets, recognized and respected around the world. Since its foundation in 1893, it has played a key role in the life of Wales, contributing enormously to her education, economy, language and culture. The University remains one of Wales's few truly national institutions and it will continue, during the twenty-first century, to fulfil its commitment to helping to meet the educational and economic needs of the nation and to promoting its heritage.

• . Welsh higher education: the leading player - the second largest University in the United Kingdom, with all but one of the higher education institutions in Wales awarding its degree.

• . Protecting academic standards - the maintenance of the very high standard of the University of Wales degree lies at the heart of the University's work.

• . An international role - the University's international validation operation fosters links with overseas countries and brings significant economic benefits to Wales.

• . Collaboration: a natural framework - the federal framework and the shared University of Wales degree are vitally important in facilitating academic collaboration in Wales.

• . Promoting the language and culture of Wales - through its central services the University plays a pivotal role in .protecting and promoting the nation's language, culture and heritage.

The University of Wales continues to play a leading role in Welsh higher education - as the guardian of academic standards for the vast majority of the sector, as the facilitator of collaborative ventures, and as a significant national institution.