In October 2024, the British Council, in collaboration with the UK Government, led a dynamic delegation of UK higher education institutions to Brazil, headed by Professor Sir Steve Smith, the UK Government’s International Education Champion. This visit aimed to enhance collaboration and explore new partnership opportunities, coinciding with Brazil's pivotal moment as it gears up to host the G20 summit and shape its new National Education Plan and National Post Graduation Plan.
The group was composed by representatives of the UK Department for Education, the Department for Business and Trade and the Science and Innovation Network and six universities (University of Leeds, University of Glasgow, University of Dundee, King's College London, Queen Mary University of London, University of Bath).
Highlights of the visit:
- Strengthening ties: The delegation sought to deepen the UK-Brazil relationship in higher education, research, and innovation.
- Collaborative focus: Both nations committed to expanding international collaboration, engaging in fruitful discussions about future partnerships in key areas, challenges, and exciting possibilities.
- Emphasis on internationalisation and Transnational Education (TNE): The visit delved into potential collaborations across various sectors, including biodiversity, health, artificial intelligence, energy, and sustainability, while promoting equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) as essential elements.
The UK and Brazil share a rich history of partnerships in higher education, science and innovation, from initiatives like CAPES PrInt to direct agreements with various institutions. This mission was an excellent opportunity to strengthen these connections, fostering dialogue through the “Partners for the Future” framework. Key topics included potential collaboration formats and ways to overcome existing barriers.
The agenda featured strategic engagements with organisations like the State of São Paulo Research Funding Agency (FAPESP), the National Industry Confederation (CNI), the University of São Paulo (USP) and the Brazilian Company of Research and Industrial Innovation (EMBRAPII). These interactions provided delegates with valuable insights into Brazil's priorities and future collaboration pathways.
Additionally, individual discussions facilitated connections between UK university representatives and 10 Brazilian higher education institutions through engaging match-making sessions.
The breadth of the agenda yielded:
- New connections: Delegates met with representatives from Brazilian universities and research institutions, uncovering potential partnerships.
- Strengthened relationships: Existing collaborations, such as with the University of São Paulo and FAPESP, were enhanced, identifying new opportunities aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Gender Equality discussions: Participants shared experiences during the launch of the Interinstitutional Working Group for Gender Equality led by the British Council and featuring key organizations like CNPq (National Council for Scientific and Technological Development), CAPES (Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel), CONFAP (National Council of State Research Funding Agencies) and the Ministry of Education.
The British Council played a crucial role by sharing expertise in international education and collaboration, laying the groundwork for sustainable partnerships between the UK and Brazil.
This intergovernmental and academic mission marks a significant milestone in strengthening UK-Brazil ties, fostering open conversations and aligning priorities. Together, these nations are poised to tackle global challenges and drive innovation, making a lasting impact.
