- On 15 January 2025, UNITAR and the University of Wolverhampton signed an agreement to establish the Prosperity Alliance Wolverhampton, a joint sustainability research knowledge exchange centre aimed at fostering innovation.
- This partnership will develop joint degree programmes, host flagship conferences and advance applied research initiatives.
- UNITAR and the University of Wolverhampton aim to drive business and economic growth through innovation and research for individuals, businesses and communities, contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.
UNITAR
22 January 2025, Geneva, Switzerland – In a landmark step towards promoting sustainable development and global prosperity, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) and the University of Wolverhampton have formalized their collaboration by signing an agreement to establish the Prosperity Alliance Wolverhampton, a joint sustainability research knowledge exchange center. This partnership aims to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by fostering innovation, driving education and research and supporting economic growth and capacity-building.
The Prosperity Alliance Wolverhampton reflects the synergy between UNITAR’s global expertise and the University of Wolverhampton’s innovative spirit and academic excellence. Together, the two institutions seek to empower individuals, businesses and communities to contribute meaningfully to sustainable development.
Goals of the Prosperity Alliance
UNITAR
The Prosperity Alliance Wolverhampton will focus on strategic initiatives to foster sustainable development, including:
- Joint degree programmes: cutting-edge academic programmes that equip students and professionals with the skills and knowledge to address global challenges and drive economic growth
- Flagship conferences: high-impact conferences in Geneva and Wolverhampton to bring together global leaders, researchers and private sector stakeholders for collaboration and knowledge exchange
- Applied research initiatives: research on critical issues such as climate change, digital transformation, global health, and sustainable business practices, ensuring practical and scalable solutions.
Call to Action: Driving Business and Economic Growth
© University of Wolverhampton
By leveraging the two institutions’ respective networks and industry partnerships, the Alliance aims to:
- Enhance entrepreneurship and innovation in underserved communities
- Support businesses in aligning with the SDGs, fostering economic resilience and inclusivity
- Create new opportunities for collaboration between academia, industry and international organizations
The Alliance invites faculty, researchers, students and private sector stakeholders to contribute to joint initiatives that bridge knowledge and action. The Prosperity Alliance Wolverhampton aims to be a beacon of collaboration, demonstrating how shared commitment can address global challenges and inspire collective efforts towards achieving the SDGs.
Welcoming the New Collaboration for Sustainability
Both parties welcomed the new collaboration to promote sustainable development.
UNITAR is honoured to collaborate with the University of Wolverhampton in a shared mission to advance education, research and business engagement. By uniting expertise and resources, this partnership aims to empower communities, drive innovation, and inspire transformative progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), fostering a more inclusive and sustainable global future.” — Mr. Nikhil Seth, UNITAR Executive Director
It is important to show our unwavering commitment to meet the net zero target by 2050 through sustainability research, education and knowledge exchange. We are delighted to sign the final agreement with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research”. — Ms. Angela Spence, Chair of the Board of Governors of the University of Wolverhampton
This is a significant and important partnership for the university looking to draw on our global expertise on sustainability. The University of Wolverhampton and UNITAR’s Prosperity Alliance Partnership is one of only three such initiatives across the world. … We are looking forward to working towards the strategic initiatives jointly designed and agreed today”. — Professor Ebrahim Adia, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wolverhampton
UNITAR and Its Prosperity Division
© University of Wolverhampton
UNITAR is a premier training arm of the United Nations, dedicated to enhancing the capacities of individuals, organizations and institutions worldwide to enhance global decision-making and support country-level action for shaping a better future. With a mission to leave no one behind, UNITAR has been instrumental in advancing knowledge and building skills to address critical global challenges.
At the heart of this mission, the UNITAR Prosperity Division focuses on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, fostering decent work opportunities and strengthening business ecosystems. The Division works through targeted training, research initiatives and strategic alliances with governments, academia and the private sector to keep economic resilience and sustainable development central in global efforts for a better world.
Showcasing Wolverhampton’s Academic and Research Strengths
© University of Wolverhampton
The University of Wolverhampton brings to the partnership its reputation as a leader in applied research, interdisciplinary studies and global engagement. Known for its innovative approach and deep ties with industry, Wolverhampton has consistently demonstrated its ability to translate academic excellence into actionable outcomes.
From advancements in digital transformation and sustainable business practices to pioneering research in economic resilience, the university has a proven track record of addressing real-world challenges. Its strong academic credentials, state-of-the-art facilities and dedicated faculty position it as a key driver in achieving the Alliance’s goals.
About the University of Wolverhampton
The University of Wolverhampton is a higher education institution based in the United Kingdom with an enriching academic excellence and innovation history. The university prepares students for success in a global society through extensive research opportunities, innovative learning approaches and vibrant learning environments.
About UNITAR
The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) is a dedicated training arm of the United Nations. In 2023, UNITAR trained over 540,000 learners around the world to support their actions for a better future. UNITAR has a global presence, with offices in Geneva, Hiroshima, New York and Bonn and networks around the world. Find out more at https://unitar.org.