Vice-Chancellor on course for Rajasthan trip

The University of Wolverhampton’s Vice-Chancellor has been invited to help start one of the world’s biggest marathons.

Professor Geoff Layer has been invited to join a number of high profile guests from Bollywood, sport and business leaders at the starting line of the Jaipur Marathon in the Indian state of Rajasthan.

More than 60,000 people are expected to take part in the race, which is taking place on Sunday 25 January 2015.

Professor Layer is leading a delegation from the University of Wolverhampton on a visit to Rajasthan later this month to build relations with the state.

He will also meet the state Governor, ministers, business and academic leaders during the four day trip between Friday 23 January and Monday 26 January.

Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton, Professor Geoff Layer, said: “We’re very much looking forward to forging new links and friendships in Rajasthan.

“Over the years we have built up excellent relationships in other parts of India through our Chancellor Lord Paul but Rajasthan is new territory for the University.

“As the second largest state in the country it presents many potential opportunities and we will be meeting with state leaders, businesses and other academic institutions to talk to them about how we can work together on the training and skills agenda.

“At a time when India is seeking to develop its infrastructure, the University of Wolverhampton can play an important role in sharing knowledge and expertise. By building partnerships with education, business, government and the community, the University can support the development of a workforce that has the skills to drive growth in the region.

“We are excited by the opportunity of working with a state that has been the birthplace of many of India’s top entrepreneurs. Business is part of Rajasthan’s DNA and we can learn a lot by being a part of this.

“It is also a great honour to be invited to attend the Jaipur Marathon. It is a huge event, which attracts a massive number of runners and crowds.”

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

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