TBU Concludes Cooperation Agreement with the Zlín Regional Authority
19. March 2024On Monday, 18 March 2024, a long-term cooperation agreement was signed at the Regional Office by TBU Rector Milan Adámek, on behalf of the University, and Governor Radim Holiš, on behalf of the Zlín Regional Authority. Their common goal is to systematically develop the Zlín region and create conditions for the development of education, research, innovation, entrepreneurship and quality of life.
“Tomas Bata University is our key partner for the further development of the region. That is why we are now signing the first ever agreement on long term cooperation, which was approved by the Regional Council two week ago,” said Radim Holiš, Governor of the Zlín Region.
The Zlín Regional Authority has been cooperating with TBU, for example, on the opening of new degree courses – Radiology Assistant and Paramedic; it also provides funding aimed at the education of PhD students and postdocs and supports other development projects.
“The cooperation with the Zlín Regional Authority is very intensive, and we are delighted that the Zlín Regional Authority contributes to advancing the infrastructure of the University. Education is extremely important for the development of the region, and I am delighted to receive such support from the Zlín Regional Authority. We also appreciate the interest in the new degree courses, namely Radiology Assistant and Paramedic. We prepare these degree programmes in accordance with the needs of the Zlín Region, because they are crucial for the region,” said Prof. Milan Adámek, TBU Rector.
The Zlín Regional Authority and TBU aim to foster cooperation mainly in the following areas:
Education
TBU will prepare degree programmes reflecting the needs of the Zlín region, focusing mainly on healthcare, teaching, as well as on technical, creative, social and economic education. The University will develop cooperation with primary and secondary schools, as well as the area of further education and the University of the Third Age. It will also strengthen cooperation with employers and adapt education to the current and future needs of the labour market. Student internships in companies will be supported in dealing with issues important for the development of the region.
Research, development, innovation and support for business
TBU and the Zlín Regional Authority will jointly support research, development and innovation activities in the region, mainly through their joint organization – Technology Innovation Centre. They will create conditions for the establishment and development of start-up companies and business creatives. They will develop the necessary infrastructure contributing to higher competitiveness of companies. They will support new investors in fields with higher added value.
Quality of life and regional development
TBU and the Zlín Regional Authority will create conditions for TBU graduates to find employment in the region and attract new experts to find jobs and settle here. It will be necessary to provide accommodation for students, as well as affordable housing for graduates and newly arriving professionals, and to build infrastructure for sports, culture and leisure activities.
Joint promotion of the Zlín Region and TBU, including activities with an international angle
The Zlín Regional Authority will promote TBU as a leader in higher education in the region, just as TBU will promote the identity of the Zlín Region (“Region without Borders” or “Outside the Box”). The Zlín Regional Authority and TBU will be partners in activities with an international angle, promoting the uniqueness of the region and achievements in educational, research, development and creative activities (e.g. Zlín Design Week), as well as important regional social events, awards or activities.