The University Compact, agreed with East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward, sets out plans to work more closely on education and skills, research, business innovation and inclusive growth. The initiative aims to create new learning opportunities, strengthen skills pathways and help businesses grow, while attracting investment and turning research into real-world solutions for communities.
The agreement complements — rather than replaces — existing civic agreements in Nottingham and Derby, reinforcing universities’ shared commitment to local partnership working while strengthening collaboration at a regional level.
Effective engagement with regional skills and growth priorities, and meaningful partnerships with key stakeholders, are central to shaping a university that meets the future needs of our students, employers and our place. This Compact Agreement cements our shared ambitions across education, skills, innovation and inclusive growth, and recognises the strong collaboration already under way to deliver shared priorities such as the East Midlands Investment Zone.
Professor Jane Norman, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Nottingham
Universities have a vital role to play in shaping the future prosperity of our region, and this Compact reflects a shared commitment to working together for the East Midlands. By aligning our strengths in education, research and innovation with the Mayor’s priorities, we can help create opportunities that support inclusive growth, strengthen skills pathways and ensure that the impact of our work benefits communities, businesses and young people across the region.
Professor Dave Petley, Vice-Chancellor and President of Nottingham Trent University
Through the Compact, universities and EMCCA will align their work with regional priorities, including the East Midlands Growth Plan, Freeport and Investment Zone, with a shared ambition to build a more innovative, inclusive and sustainable regional economy.