Sydney University hires Jacinda Ardern as lecturer and mentor

In short:

Former New Zealand prime minister Jacinda Ardern has been hired as a lecturer and mentor at the University of Sydney.

The 46-year-old is joining the faculty of medicine and health as a professor of practice.

The role will focus on empathetic leadership, social cohesion and civic trust, the university says.

Former New Zealand prime minister Dame Jacinda Ardern has been appointed a lecturer and mentor at the University of Sydney.

The 46-year-old has been hired as a professor of practice "with a focus on empathetic leadership, social cohesion and civic trust", the university said.

In her role, Ms Arden will explore new ways to address global health challenges, inclusion and wellbeing, as well as lead guest lectures and masterclasses.

According to the university, the position would not be a full-time teaching role.

Ms Ardern said she was looking forward to "explore and develop ways to better serve our communities".

"I've found myself especially focused on the question of leadership since leaving office — and how we can better support and encourage the kind of leadership needed to tackle our many global challenges,"

she said.

University of Sydney vice chancellor and president Mark Scott said he had "long admired the courage and humanity" Ms Ardern brought to public life.

"For our students, the opportunity to learn from Dame Jacinda is exceptional, they will meet not only a former prime minister, but a thoughtful teacher with a great deal to share about public leadership and service," he said.

Ms Ardern was elected prime minister of New Zealand at 37 and served in office between 2017 and 2023.

During her tenure, she led the country through the Christchurch terrorist attack, the Whakaari White Island volcanic eruption and the COVID pandemic.

In 2023, she was awarded a Damehood for her services to the state, a few months after she announced her shock resignation as prime minister.

Ms Ardern and her family moved moved to Australia in February, reportedly buying a $5.3 million home with her husband, Clarke Gayford, on Sydney's northern beaches.