Professorship for international development expert

Philip Dearden has worked at the University’s Centre for International Development and Training (CIDT) for over 25 years.

The Centre, which is based at the Telford Innovation Campus, has transformed the lives of thousands of people in more than 130 countries through training, consultancy and project work.

Philip was awarded the title of Professor in International Development at a graduation ceremony at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre on Thursday, 4 April 2013.

The professorship was awarded in recognition of Philip’s distinguished record in innovation, enterprise and Knowledge Transfer including consultancy in international development work.

Philip said: “I am really pleased for CIDT as the professorship is recognition of the Centre’s work around the world as much as my own contribution.

“We have plans to further expand the Centre’s work, so I’m sure this honour will help us achieve that.”

Professor Dearden has worked at the University since 1986 and has worked in over 40 countries including Bangladesh, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Nepal, Pakistan, Rwanda, Syria, Sri Lanka, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

His role has included working as a project manager, consultant and a trainer in sectors such as, enterprise, environment, governance, rural livelihoods, education and health. 

CIDT is a non-profit making Centre within the University which celebrated its 40^th anniversary in 2012.

The aim of the Centre is to support and nurture people-centred sustainable development across the globe, contribute to poverty reduction and improve the livelihoods of vulnerable people.

Current projects include a four-year forestry and livelihoods project in Nepal and a large climate change project in Rwanda.

ENDS

Picture: Vice-Chancellor Professor Geoff Layer with Professor in International Development Philip Dearden.

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

Date Issued: Tuesday, 09 April 2013