HRUC partners with Mauritius for international training project

Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge Colleges (HRUC) has announced a new partnership to support Mauritius in creating a greener future.

The International Skills Partnership Mauritius (ISPM) project, led in the UK by HRUC and in Mauritius by the Mauritius Institute of Training and Development (MITD), is a 12-month initiative designed to deliver specialised vocational training modules. 

The practical, employer-led training will focus on the principles of a Circular Economy. This model aims to eliminate waste and circulate resources to create a more climate-friendly environment, while increasing economic growth and green job opportunities.

Using high-level scientific research from the Brunel Wolfson Centre, the training will centre on the mobility, logistics, and waste management sectors. 

The project includes objectives aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, particularly responsible consumption and climate action.

Gender equality will be prioritised with a 40% female participation target in technical roles. This will be supported by role-model campaigns and scheduling workshops to accommodate care responsibilities.

The ISPM project, which is supported by the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC), will help Mauritius secure a sustainable future and achieve its aim of becoming a Circular Economy, as set out in Mauritius' National Circular Economy Roadmap 2033.

HRUC brings strong expertise in employer-led vocational education and a track record of managing complex multi-partner projects.

Yaseen Akhtar, Managing Director of the West London Institute of Technology, said: “HRUC is delighted to collaborate with the MITD on the British Council ISPM project focused on the National Circular Economy Roadmap. Initiatives of this nature play a vital role in developing international cooperation, enhancing professional development in higher education and addressing workforce development needs.”

Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee, CEO of UVAC, said: “UVAC is proud to support this partnership, which exemplifies how further and higher education can drive the green transition. By integrating Circular Economy principles into technical and vocational excellence, we are ensuring that the future workforce in Mauritius is equipped with the high-level skills necessary to meet the ambitious goals of the National Circular Economy Roadmap."

Supported by funding from the British Council’s Going Global Partnerships programme.

Going Global Partnerships supports universities, colleges and wider education stakeholders around the world to work together towards stronger, equitable, inclusive, more internationally connected higher education, science and TVET.

Through international partnerships, system collaborations and opportunities to connect and share, we enable stronger transnational education, more collaborative research, higher quality delivery enhanced learner outcomes and stronger, internationalised, equitable and inclusive systems and institutions.

This leads to stronger higher education, research and TVET systems around the world that can support fairer social and economic growth and address national and global challenges – all backed up by mutually beneficial international relationships.