City to host first world conference of its kind

THE ADVENT of technology in the 21st century will be a key focus as a Yorkshire city hosts the first global congress of its kind.

Organisers say the World Technology Universities Congress next month at Bradford University aims to create a global partnership between education, business, governments and development organisations. Delegates will travel from institutions in Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia and North America, together with leaders of major organisations and industry.

The congress will provide a setting for considering creating of a World Technology Universities Network and agreeing what its objectives should be. If a core number of universities are in agreement, a statement of intent to develop the network will be signed.

Senior figures from technology universities, business and governments will also debate the importance of educating graduates to be “global citizens in a technology-rich 21st century”. The congress will be at Bradford University’s Emm Lane and Richmond Road campuses on September 8 and 9.

Bradford University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Brian Cantor, said: “I am very proud that Bradford, with its worldwide reputation as a technology university and its world-leading research, is taking a lead in this initiative and will be hosting such a prestigious, global gathering.

“Economic strength depends on hi-tech manufacturing and international trade, with a knowledge economy based on highquality research, and a steady flow of highly-trained graduates.”