Commenting in the university's just-released annual report, Prof Skegg reflected on the university's success in working towards a series of "strategic imperatives" cited in the university's key planning document, "Strategic Direction to 2012".
Commenting on the imperative to ensure "outstanding campus environments and student experience", Prof Skegg said the university attracted students from throughout New Zealand and overseas, because of its academic reputation and its "outstanding campus life".
"The university is determined to ensure that the physical and social environment at all of its campuses is conducive to sound learning and personal development."
Prof Skegg noted that after disorderly behaviour problems which had been encountered at times in recent years, two new measures had been introduced last year, following the recommendations of two working parties, which had included student representatives.
A new Code of Student Conduct had been adopted.
A Campus Watch service was introduced, and by August last year was fully operational, with 41 people employed in five teams, he said.
"Their role is essentially pastoral, and their presence in the campus area provides valuable support for students in the transition from residential colleges to flatting.
"Both initiatives have undoubtedly contributed to a significant reduction in rowdyism, which has been appreciated by other students as well as the surrounding community," he said.
Many factors combined to underpin the "unique Otago experience", including the pastoral care provided by the university's residential colleges, the provision of first-rate student support services, the many activities provided by the Otago University Students Association, and the university's beneficial relationship with the Dunedin City Council and other bodies.
Discussing the goal of "achieving research excellence", Prof Skegg said that one of the most exciting trends at Otago in the past year had been the steady increase in the number of postgraduate research students.
There had been 1074 doctoral enrolments last year, up nearly 15% on the previous year.
A ball had been held at Larnach Castle last year to celebrate the fact that more than 1000 people were studying for a PhD degree at the university's three main campuses.
Commenting on the goal of "achieving excellence in research-informed teaching", Prof Skegg noted that partly as a result of the merger with the former Dunedin College of Education, the university had last year enrolled 20,665 students, the largest number of students in its history.
This corresponded to 18,158 equivalent full-time students (EFTS), 4.1% up from the previous year.
Students came to Otago University from nearly 90 countries, and it was pleasing to note an increase of postgraduates among international students, he said.