- Address: 62 Leith St, North Dunedin, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand;
- Website: otago.ac.nz;
- Phone: +64 3-479 7000
University of Otago is the oldest university in New Zealand , the largest educational center in the south of the country and one of Dunedin 's most visited attractions.
History of University
Since the beginning of the 18th century. The lands of the South Island were actively populated by Europeans. Over time, the authorities faced the challenge of organizing an educational process for the children of New Zealand settlers. After numerous appeals of residents, incl. public figures Thomas Burns and James Mackendrew, in 1869 Otago University was founded - the first higher educational institution in New Zealand. The opening of the university took place on July 5, 1871.
Curiously, Otago University at the time of its foundation was the first educational institution in Australia, where women could obtain a higher legal education. In 1897, Ethel Benjamin came out of the university, who soon became a lawyer and appeared in court - a unique case for British law practice.
From 1874 to 1961 years. The university was part of the unified federal university of New Zealand as a partner college. In 1961, after reforming the education system, Otago University became a fully independent higher educational institution.
University of Otago - one of the attractions of Dunedin
The graceful structure in the Victorian style is made of dark basalt, finished with light limestone and evokes associations with the British Westminster Palace and the University of Glasgow (Scotland). The main building of the university together with the neighboring buildings forms a nice little town in the style of the Gothic Revival almost in the very center of Dunedin . Now the administrative center and the office of the vice-chancellor are located in the main building.
Attracting tourists is not only the architectural merits of the university. In the foyer on the first floor you can see a unique mechanical watch that has been working without recharging since 1864! The author of the invention, mathematician Arthur Beverly, managed, if not to find the secret of the eternal engine, then to come close to this goal. The mechanism for all the time stopped only a couple of times: during the transfer of the department to another building and because of mechanical damage.
University of Otago in our days
In New Zealand, Otago University is considered the second, after Oakland University. The motto of the university, "Sapere aude" translates as "have the courage to be wise." There are four academic departments at the University, especially the traditional medical school. Together with the College of the Holy Cross and Knox College, theology is taught. The University is making a significant contribution to the economy of Dunedin , since it is the largest employer of the South Island.
Where is?
University of Otago is located on the banks of the Leith River, 362, in the North Dunedin district. Almost near the city center, just a few hundred meters - the central railway station. From Dunedin International Airport, the University is a 15-minute drive away.
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