Three landmark agreements enhance relationships with Mexico

The University of Manchester has signed three major agreements with Conacyt, an organisation which promotes and strengthens the scientific development and technical modernisation of Mexico.

The signing comes as 2015 marks the Dual Year of UK and Mexico – a year-long celebration of cultural, educational and business exchange between the two nations.

Under the direction of Professor Teresa Alonso Rasgado, the University and Conacyt have developed a long-term relationship which, over the years, has seen The University of Manchester developing partnerships with universities all over Mexico.

This has resulted in promoting and strengthening scientific development and technology in Mexico, as well as creating the opportunity for a wide range of Mexican students to study in the UK.

The three agreements cover a number of important areas for both countries and include:

• A ground-breaking partnership between the Division of Scientific Development at Conacyt and the University, giving the opportunity for research staff to carry out defined research projects in Manchester.  This agreement is a particularly important since it will open the way for similar agreements with other UK universities. 
• The  expansion of a current successful scholarship programme, funded by the Postgraduate and Scholarship Division in Conacyt and The University of Manchester, to allow a wider range of research projects to be undertaken by Mexican research students. 
• The creation of a purpose designed Research School to be run at The University of Manchester.

Professor Colin Bailey, Deputy President and Vice-Chancellor of The University of Manchester, said: “Working in partnership with Mexico, which is being led by Professor Teresa Alonso Rasgado, is a key priority for The University of Manchester.  Our university continues to build strong partnerships across a number of Mexican organisations based on our key relationship with Conacyt. 

“The relationship between Manchester and Conacyt has been built through hard work and trust over a number of years, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the people involved. 

“Without the dedication of staff within Conacyt and Manchester, this relationship, which affects the lives and futures of so many young people, would not be possible.”

Notes for editors

Media enquiries to:
Jamie Brown
Media Relations Officer
The University of Manchester
Tel: 0161 2758383
Email: jamie.brown@manchester.ac.uk