A former Bexley school girl is paving the way for equality, by becoming the first black woman to lead a UK university.

Former politician and senior UN official Baroness Valerie Amos said she is “delighted” to take the top role as the ninth director of SOAS, University of London.

The Baroness, who was a pupil at Bexley Technical High School for Girls (now Townley Grammar School) begins her new job in September, replacing Professor Paul Webley – who is retiring.

On the approach to SOAS' centerary year, she said: “I am honoured to be joining SOAS at this important point in its history.

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“SOAS is a special institution with global recognition for its research and teaching on Asia, Africa and the Middle East, bringing different perspectives to scholarship.

“SOAS is uniquely placed to inform and shape current thinking about the religious, political, cultural, security and economic challenges of our world.

“SOAS is a place where I can continue to grow and learn and use the skills, knowledge and experience I have gained over the years.”

Lady Amos has previously served as an Undersecretary General at the UN, an advisor to the Mandela government, leader of the House of Lords and UK High Commissioner to Australia.

She was the first black woman to sit in the British cabinet, as Secretary of State for International Development.

Lady Amos is a co-founder and patron of the Amos Bursary, promoting higher education opportunities for young men of African and Caribbean heritage in the UK.

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Chair of SOAS’ governing body Tim Miller said: “Valerie Amos is a major figure on the international stage.

“Like SOAS, she is renowned for formidable intellect, international outlook, cultural fluency and engagement with contemporary issues.

“She also brings impressive experience of operational and strategic management to the role.

“We look forward to welcoming her to SOAS.”

SOAS is the world’s leading institution for the study of Asia, Africa and the Middle East.