University signs agreement with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research

The University of Wolverhampton has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) to drive sustainable development education and research and enhance global collaboration. 

The memorandum, signed on 13 November in Geneva, Switzerland, will see both organisations work together in developing joint courses, research fellowships, establish a research centre and host international conferences.  

The first ‘Prosperity Alliance’ in the UK at the University will also be launched — a UNITAR-associated network for customised sustainable development training to promote global collaboration.  

The University of Wolverhampton will leverage its expertise to design these initiatives with UNITAR, providing students, researchers and professionals with first-hand exposure to international decision-making processes. UNITAR will provide advisory support and guidance around strategies on sustainable development goal alignments and implement the research centre and training programmes. 

The partnership deal was approved by the United Nations Assistant Secretary-General (UN-ASG) Nikhil Seth and Professor Ebrahim Adia, Vice Chancellor at the University of Wolverhampton. Professor Maharaj Vijay Reddy, Associate Dean at the University, and Professor Clare Schofield, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences were present.  

Professor Adia said: “We’re delighted to sign this strategic MOU with UNITAR, which is very much in line with the 2035 vision of the University. The University of Wolverhampton and UNITAR share common goals and objectives with regards to enhancing global education and research collaboration to transform lives and deliver a more inclusive, productive and sustainable society." 

Professor Maharaj Vijay Reddy said: “The Wolverhampton - UNITAR Prosperity Alliance will be the first of its kind in the UK. We’re looking forward to this special journey of strategic partnership with UNITAR, to closely collaborate and shape education and research initiatives to effectively address complex sustainability challenges and foster our global impact.  

“We would like to thank UN-ASG Nikhil Seth, Mihoko Kumamoto, Director of the Division for Prosperity at UNITAR, Michael Adalla, Senior Programme Specialist at UNITAR and our Pro Vice-Chancellor Professor Pillai who’ve made this collaboration a reality.”  

UN-ASG Nikhil Seth said: “This partnership harnesses the momentum of the Pact of the Future to amplify youth voices and foster global collaboration. Inspired by the Declaration of Future Generations, it bridges research, dialogue and action to accelerate the 2030 Agenda.” 

Mihoko Kumamoto added: “Our partnership with the University of Wolverhampton empowers youth as catalysts for change, combining innovative learning and global expertise. Together, we will strive to promote economic, social and environmental development in supporting sustainable development goals.”  

Anyone interested in courses being offered in the University’s School of Architecture and Built Environment should check its website or register for forthcoming Open Days.