The five universities in Greater Manchester, including the University of Manchester, have introduced a set of updated civic priorities aimed at enhancing community well-being across the region. This initiative was revealed during a recent event at the Royal Northern College of Music, with attendance from civic leaders, university partners, members of the Greater Manchester Citizens” Panel, and Councillor Eamonn O”Brien, the leader of Bury Council.
The newly established priorities are part of the Greater Manchester Civic University Agreement (CUA), which was initiated in 2021. This agreement fosters collaboration among the University of Greater Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, University of Manchester, Royal Northern College of Music, and University of Salford, alongside the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. The goal is to align the strengths of these institutions with the needs of the local community, ultimately aiming to improve the quality of life for residents throughout Greater Manchester.
Professor Jennie Henley, Chair of the Civic University Board, emphasized the significance of this partnership: “Our universities are not separate from Greater Manchester; they are part of its fabric. These refreshed priorities are about reaffirming our long-term commitment to the people of this city-region. By working in partnership, we can achieve more together than any of us could alone, helping to build a Greater Manchester that is fairer, healthier, greener, and full of opportunity.”
The four new priorities focus on areas where the universities can collectively make the most substantial impact. Greater Manchester”s universities already contribute over £4 billion to the local economy annually, educate more than 100,000 students, and host millions of residents for concerts, lectures, and public events. They play a significant role in training the region”s future workforce, which includes an estimated 9,500 nurses, 3,500 doctors, and 8,500 teachers between 2022 and 2027.
Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham remarked on the essential role of universities in the region”s development: “Greater Manchester”s universities make a massive contribution to our city region, one that goes far beyond educating students. These refreshed civic priorities reflect the breadth of our universities” impact across our society and economy, from creating jobs and supporting business innovation to enriching our culture. We recently set out our vision for Greater Manchester”s next decade of growth and we know our universities have a vital role to play in our continued success.”
With the revision of their priorities, the universities have recommitted to collaborating with civic partners and communities to foster an environment where all residents can flourish. The shared priorities for Greater Manchester will guide their efforts in this endeavor.
