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Teesside University has partnered with the UK2070 Teesside Taskforce to award a fully funded doctoral studentship to a scholar from the University of Pretoria in South Africa.

The doctoral partnership has been announced in response to President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa’s Presidential PhD Initiative, an ambitious national programme to foster international collaboration in advanced research.

The first collaboration with Pretoria University will see a joint paper on solar systems power optimization to be presented the 5^th IEEE International Conference on Electrical, Computer and Energy Technologies (ICECET 2025), in Paris, in July. 

The paper involves Teesside University academics Professor Michael Short, Rajitha Wattegama, Geetika Aggarwal, and University of Pretoria academic Raj Naidoo.

A second doctoral placement, awarded to Tshwane University of Technology, will begin in October this year.

This landmark initiative builds on commitments made during the UK2070 Commission’s Mission Seven to South Africa in November 2023, convened by Minister Blade Nzimande of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation (DSTI) and supported by senior academic leaders from South Africa’s leading universities.

Led by Professor Michael Henson, Chair of the UK2070 Teesside Taskforce, and Professor Stephen Cummings, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Knowledge Exchange at Teesside University, the programme reflects a mutual commitment to building global research ecosystems that address real-world challenges and promote inclusive, place-based growth across both nations.

The fully funded three-year PhD studentships will be delivered collaboratively between Teesside University and South African partner institutions. Leading to the awarding of a doctoral degree from Teesside University, it will include tuition, research support, and integration into a dynamic UK–South Africa innovation network.

Professor Michael Henson, Chair of the UK2070 Teesside Taskforce, said:“This partnership exemplifies the power of academic diplomacy and the strategic importance of bilateral knowledge exchange. As Chair of the UK2070 Teesside Taskforce, I am honoured to support the Presidential PhD Initiative and to strengthen the bridge between the United Kingdom and South Africa through research grounded in local need and global ambition. I remain grateful for the enduring diplomatic engagement of His Excellency High Commissioner Mamabolo, whose vision and leadership continue to guide our shared commitment to inclusive prosperity and international collaboration.”

Professor Stephen Cummings added:“At Teesside University, we believe in the transformative power of research. This programme demonstrates how international collaboration can accelerate progress towards sustainable development, from clean energy to digital innovation. We warmly welcome our South African doctoral candidates and look forward to building on this momentum.”

His Excellency South Africa High Commissioner Jeremiah Nyamane Mamabolo said:“This initiative stands as a distinguished example of how academic collaboration can serve as a pillar of diplomatic engagement between our two nations.

The UK2070 Teesside Taskforce and Teesside University have demonstrated exemplary leadership in advancing the objectives of South Africa’s Presidential PhD Initiative. Their commitment to inclusive research exchange not only strengthens our bilateral academic ties but also contributes meaningfully to South Africa’s national imperatives—particularly in fostering innovation, advancing a just energy transition, and building a highly skilled knowledge economy. We look forward to deepening this valued partnership in the years ahead.”

This first cohort lays the foundation for an expanded programme of UK–South Africa academic cooperation, particularly in fields critical to economic transformation, resilience, and Net Zero innovation. Further doctoral placements are planned, continuing this model of equitable, high-impact research collaboration.

The UK2070 Commission is an independent inquiry into city and regional inequalities in the United Kingdom. Launched in 2018, it was established to conduct a review of policy and spatial issues related to the UK’s long-term city and regional development, reinforcing the devolution agenda for cities, regions and nations to maximise their potential for sustainable and inclusive growth.

The UK2070 Commission established a programme of locally based taskforces, including the Teesside Taskforce, in support of the ambition for all cities, regions and nations to be at the heart of the UK’s drive for a future greener, more inclusive economy. These collaborative partnerships enable enhanced capacity for strategic action on matters needing a wider geographical perspective.

An independent assessment in the North West of England has set out a new way forward for rail investment in the North West of England. Published as a discussion paper by the UK2070 Commission, the report outlines four priorities for rail investment:

• Resolving the problem of rail network congestion in central Manchester
• Making the best use of investment committed in HS2
• Bringing the West Coast Main Line north of Crewe into the 21^st century, in terms of capacity and quality
• Bringing the old industrial towns back into the heart of the region

The authors argue that the decision to abandon HS2 between Birmingham and Crewe was flawed and needs to be reconsidered. An aspiration for better pan-Northern connections must remain. But emphasis should be placed on where the North West’s main problems lie – in central Manchester – and on upgrading existing trans Pennine routes, as well as existing links between Crewe, Manchester and Liverpool, rather than building new high-speed lines.

The authors are transport planning consultant David Thrower; Professor Ian Wray at Liverpool University’s Heseltine Institute and Manchester University; and Jim Steer, director of Greengauge 21.

Jim Steer said: ‘The North West has many of the assets for growth and its big cities have seen a remarkable turnaround, but the weakness of its transport connections remains a barrier. The inherited Victorian rail network has seen low investment, low speeds and poor quality. Upgrading the system would increase productivity and economic growth, widening labour markets and securing agglomeration economies’.

David Thrower said: ‘Our suggestions are pragmatic. We are putting forward projects which build on investment already committed including HS2, whilst making best use of the region’s inherited rail system A great deal can be done at relatively low cost’.

Professor Ian Wray said: ‘We could bring HS2 services to Liverpool and Manchester by upgrading existing routes; reconnect the existing severed Liverpool-Wigan-Manchester railway line; and resolve congestion in central Manchester, either by a flyover and platforms at Piccadilly, or a short new city centre tunnel, like Liverpool’s 1970’s rail tunnels’.

Professor Cecilia Wong, Chair of the UK 2070 Commission on regional inequalities, said: ‘This report sets out a framework of priorities for investment, whilst advocating a new mechanism for agreeing plans and sticking to them. It demands careful attention’.

The UK2070 Commission announces that because of her joining the Government following the UK General Election, Baroness Blake has resigned as Interim Chair of the UK2070 Commission.

Baroness Blake, became the interim chair, following the passing of the late Lord Bob Kerslake.

The UK2070 Commissioners statement said: Baroness Blake, has served with distinction, providing exemplary leadership and unwavering support during a period of significant transition for the Commission. Her dedication and commitment to the Commission’s goals have been instrumental in advancing our mission to address regional inequalities and promote sustainable development across the UK.

The UK2070 Commission expresses its deepest gratitude to Baroness Blake for her invaluable contributions and leadership during this challenging time. Her efforts have been critical in maintaining the momentum and focus of the Commission’s work, ensuring that the vision of a fairer, more equitable future for all regions of the UK remains at the forefront of our agenda.

A further announcement regarding the appointment of a new Chair will be made in September. The Commission remains committed to its objectives and will continue to work diligently to address the pressing issues facing our communities.

15 July 2024

Vice-Chancellor, Michael Henson has dedicated over 25 years to political service and is a longstanding supporter and advocate of Teesside University. Currently Associate Director in the Central and Local Government Parliamentary Policy Team at the global professional services firm Turner & Townsend, Michael has substantial experience working in and around central and local government. Through his work in the regions and his role as a House of Lords staff member, he has particular expertise in fiscal devolution, regional partnerships, Metro Mayors and the House of Lords. 

Michael has focused much of his career on boosting the economy of local regions through international partnerships. He has played a pivotal role in brokering collaborations between central government, combined and local authorities, politicians, think tanks and local enterprise partnerships both in the UK and the Commonwealth, with a particular focus on South Africa and the Presidential Climate Commission. 

Alongside this, Michael is also a Commissioner for the UK2070 Commission, an independent inquiry into city and regional inequalities in the United Kingdom. Originally chaired by the late Lord Kerslake, the Commission continues to undertake important work driving regional development, creating impact here in our local region through the Teesside Taskforce, which Michael has chaired since its establishment in 2019. Through the Teesside Taskforce, the University contributes research and thought leadership to better evidence and understand the socioeconomic challenges facing our local communities, exploring the potential of freeports, steel, hydrogen and the wider net zero agenda to boost opportunities for people across the Tees Valley. 

In December 2022, Michael became an Honorary Professor at Teesside University in recognition of his ongoing work through the Teesside Taskforce, as well as his role as an advocate and ambassador supporting the University’s collaborations overseas. Michael has also supported the University in its establishment of the Public Policy Academy, bringing together civic and political leaders to give students an insight into the impact of public policy. A committed advocate to the University and the wider region, Michael continues to support our institution through advocacy, partnership building, and collaboration with central and local government. 

Vice-Chancellor; I present to you Michael Henson to receive the Degree of Doctor of Civil Law, honoris causa.

The UK2070 Commission Taskforce announces the establishment of Taskforce in South Africa: The UK2070 Mpumalanga Taskforce.

This taskforce is a key initiative within its comprehensive program aimed at fostering regional development and addressing socio-economic disparities. The UK2070 Taskforce Programme is chaired by Professor Michael Henson, and the UK2070 Mpumalanga Taskforce Vice Chair will be Dr. Vathi Papu-Zamxaka, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation & Engagement at Tshwane University of Technology.

Following the successful launch of the UK Teesside Taskforce in October 2020, the SA Mpumalanga Taskforce represents the second major endeavour under the UK2070 Commission’s Taskforce initiative.
UK2070 Mpumalanga Taskforce will collaborate closely with Tshwane University of Technology, Presidential Climate Commission, local businesses and enterprise partnerships and the local community to develop and implement strategies that align with the UK2070 Commission’s 10-point plan objectives.
The UK2070 Mpumalanga Taskforce will begin its operations programme from 1st July 2024, focusing on identifying key areas for development and engaging with the Presidential Climate Commission to ensure the success of its initiatives.

Professor Michael Henson, Chair of the UK2070 Commission Taskforce Programme, said:
“ The UK2070 Taskforce programme are delighted to welcome the South Africa Mpumalanga Taskforce into the vibrant and dynamic fold of the Taskforce programme. This integration marks a significant milestone in our collective journey towards addressing regional inequalities and fostering sustainable development. The combined expertise and unwavering commitment of our partners across the UK and South Africa will undoubtedly propel us towards a more equitable and prosperous future. Together, we are stronger, and together, we will help drive transformative change, ensuring that regions can harness its unique strengths and opportunities to thrive.”

Baroness Wilcox of Newport Vice chair UK2070 Taskforce Programme commented,
“I am deeply committed to advancing initiatives that bridge the economic and social divides between our regions. Our work is focused on creating inclusive growth and resilient communities, Today’s news is most welcome, and my assured further commitment to supporting the UK2070 Taskforce programme and developing further, with Professor Henson, a UK2070 Cardiff Taskforce later this year, working alongside both Teesside and Mpumalanga”.

Dr. Vathi Papu-Zamxaka, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation and Engagement at Tshwane University of Technology and Vice Chair of the Mpumalanga Taskforce, added: “This partnership is a testament to the power of collaboration between academia, industry, and the community. We are committed to driving impactful renewable energy research and innovation that will benefit the Mpumalanga region and beyond. The latter will assist in curbing global climate change challenges”.

Presidential Climate Commission, commented:
The establishment of the Mpumalanga Taskforce enriches existing efforts to build local science and technology capacity to support a just transition. Valuable partnerships with universities such as Teesside, which has established a net-zero technology centre, will precipitate knowledge and innovations give rise to creative solutions to a low-carbon climate-resilient economy and society.

Professor Steve Cummings, Vice Chair of the UK2070 Teesside Taskforce, said:
“We welcome this announcement. By leveraging our expertise and resources, we aim to drive impactful change, sharing innovative solutions and best practices to tackle climate change and foster sustainable development both in the UK and South Africa. UK2070 Teesside Taskforce, based at Teesside University, reaffirms its commitment to international climate action following a recent visit from the South African Presidential Climate Commission.”

For more information please contact : UK2070 Taskforce Secretariat UK2070commissiom@turntown.com

South Africa Minister and Department for Science and Innovation Delegation visiting the Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre, Teesside Hosted by UK2070 Commission

Led by South African Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande, the delegation visited the Tees Valley to learn how the University’s Net Zero Industry Innovation Centre (NZIIC) is helping to support the region’s ambition of becoming the first and largest decarbonised industrial cluster by 2040.

The £13.1m facility, which opened for business earlier this year, is a national centre of excellence for net zero technologies and is already helping position the Tees Valley firmly at the heart of the UK’s green industrial revolution.

The visit was organised by the UK2070 Commission, an independent inquiry into city and regional inequalities in the UK and led by UK2070 Commissioner and Teesside Taskforce Chair, Professor Michael Henson.

Industry partners including representatives from global companies Turner & Townsend and bp joined the delegation. As part of the programme, the visitors were shown how the University is supporting the growth of innovative new businesses which are finding solutions to address the climate emergency and had the opportunity to talk with representatives from SeerBi,Stuff4Life and XHeat.

The NZIIC’s work to create a circular economy was demonstrated by its collaboration with Stuff4Life, a start-up business that is finding a use for end-of-life workwear which would otherwise have ended up in landfill.

Professor Stephen Cummings, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), said:
“We were delighted to welcome our guests from South Africa and to showcase how Teesside University is fulfilling its role as an anchor institution for the Tees Valley by driving forward innovation and investment in green technologies.  Since opening this year, the NZIIC has had a demonstrable impact on green innovation in the region. We were very pleased to show how industry and academic collaboration is reaping dividends and helping position this region as a hub for green and sustainable growth.”

Gari Harris, Director of the NZIIC

“A key part of our mission is to support the just transition to a net zero economy and we look forward to sharing knowledge and cooperating further to support our communities to achieve this goal.”

Gari Harris, Director of the NZIIC, added: “Since opening this year, the NZIIC has had a demonstrable impact on green innovation in the region.

“We were very pleased to show how industry and academic collaboration is reaping dividends and helping position this region as a hub for green and sustainable growth.”

Through the UK20270 Teesside Taskforce, Teesside University has already established strong links and hosted previous visits with South African officials and has signed a collaboration agreement with South Africa’s Stellenbosch and Pretoria Universities deepening UK-South African academic collaboration on hydrogen.

Professor Michael Henson, UK2070 Commissioner, said:
“Over the last year I have had the pleasure of leading the UK2070 Commission’s South Africa/UK partnership programme championing the role of the Tees Valley and Teesside University in green industries. The programme has included several missions to the UK and a visit to South Africa with Teesside University colleagues.

“As Commissioner, I was delighted to welcome the South African Minister for Higher Education, Science and Technology, Dr Blade Nzimande and his team back to Teesside for a second visit. We look forward to building on this latest visit and identifying further areas for collaboration.”

Website version here

See previous press release – Trade Mission 5-Presidential Climate Commission:

Building on international collaboration between South Africa and Teesside University
Dr Crispian Olver Executive Director of the Presidential Climate Commission established by the President of the Republic of South Africa

Website version here

The UK2070 Commission today publishes a report titled “Rethinking the Housing Crisis: the Challenges and Opportunities in England’s combined authority areas”, written by Dr Leonard Gibbs, Dr Wei Zheng and Professor Cecilia Wong from the University of Manchester.  

The report reveals the key changes in housing tenure in England, showing the high rates of growth in outright ownership and private renting and the related issues around housing affordability for new entrants and renters. Using geo-mapping, the report highlights the different housing markets within England, showing the places where the market is overheated and those where prices are declining or failing to keep up with inflation. The report shows the clear divides in England’s housing market and the impacts and influences on inward migration. The report shows the complexity of factors influencing housing affordability, demonstrating the need for regional and local solutions, and makes the continuing case for levelling up in the North of England.

Cecilia Wong and Helen Zheng, both from the University of Manchester, are authors of the ‘UK2070 Commission Go Local’ report`

Unlike most macro-economic and regional analysis, this report unravels the spatial patterns behind the so-called ‘productivity puzzle’ of the UK. Through GIS mapping analysis, the report aims to provide a better understanding of the emerging spatial landscape of productivity and employment change and to examine whether the spatial patterns are related to different labour market conditions and infrastructure provisions across England. When analysing the more recent trend between 2015 and 2019, five combined authority areas (West Yorkshire, North of Tyne, Greater Manchester, North East, and West Midlands) enjoyed growth in GVA per hour worked for over 4.4% in real terms, which outperformed Greater London’s 3.19% increase. The analysis in the report lays bare the spatial landscape of different socio-economic conditions and challenges faced by different local and combined authorities, as well as highlighting opportunities for more creative spatial thinking to exploit synergies across different places. The report aims to inform the ‘Go Local’ agenda of the UK2070 Commission to achieve its 10-Point Action Plan.