New partnerships forged in India

New partnerships have been agreed with education institutions and a business organisation in India as part of a special visit by the University of Wolverhampton.

Vice-Chancellor Professor Geoff Layer led the delegation to the Indian state of Rajasthan and also helped to start the Jaipur Half Marathon on Sunday.

The visit aimed to build relations with the state, and Professor Layer met the state Governor, ministers, business and academic leaders during the four day trip between Friday 23 January and Monday 26 January.

Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed with the Employers Association of Rajasthan and six regional universities: Pratap Institute of Technology and Science; SS Jain Subodh PG (Autonomous) College; Vivekananda Global University; Suresh Gyan Vihar University; CREDAI and Maharishi Arvind Group of Institutes.

The agreements with the universities include exchange of students and staff, exploration of collaborative research projects and joint academic activities such as lectures and conferences.

Professor Layer joined a number of high profile guests from Bollywood, sport and business leaders at the starting line of the Jaipur Marathon and also presented a University of Wolverhampton prize to the top Indian female runner.

‌He said: “The University is proud to have very strong links with India already through our Chancellor Lord Paul of Marylebone, and this visit aimed to build new relationships within the state of Rajasthan. We were delighted to meet government officials, the Employers’ Association, businesses and academic institutions and to form some important new partnerships.

“India is entering a new phase in its development, which offers many opportunities for the University to share its knowledge and expertise and contribute to the training and skills agenda. Through the new agreements we hope to contribute to economic growth in the region.

“It was also an honour to start the Jaipur Marathon, which attracted a huge crowd, and to present prizes to the winners.”

The University delegation also attended the Governors parade on Republic Day (26 January) as VIP guests of the state Governor. They also met the Deputy High Commissioner and Chief Minister.

A dinner hosted by the University for about 150 guests, including the Minister of Social Justice.

The University already has close ties with India and has a regional office in New Delhi.

ENDS

Picture - top right: Vice-Chancellor Professor Geoff Layer presenting the top Indian female runner with her prize at the Jaipur Marathon.

For more information please contact Vickie Warren in the Media Relations Office on 01902 322736.