Academics from the University of Cumbria are in Uzbekistan to provide training to develop research and enterprise links in the country.

They are among a panel of experts in business, marketing and education working with the British Council.

Led by Jo Chaffer, associate consultant in leadership foundation, Professor Andy Gale, director of industrial strategy, and Dr Kaz Stuart, associate professor in child adolescent and family studies, are taking part in the symposium.

The two-day event, yesterday and today, saw delegates challenged to form a team to include the skills needed to offer a service to an enterprise ‘market’ with the aim of developing themselves as potential enterprise partners.

This is the second in a series of training events involving UK academics with the University of Cumbria specifically invited to attend.

Prof Gale said: “It’s a fascinating opportunity to see and we’re delighted to be involved.

"I was asked to share my knowledge and experience on project management and how to build partnerships between universities and private enterprise. I have been accompanied by Dr Stuart, associate professor of health, psychology and social studies, who has a background in leadership and developing university-enterprise links with public sector and non-profit organisations."

The event culminates with a discussion examining how universities and enterprise partners might understand each other’s needs, strengths and identify opportunities these present for genuine partnerships.

Prof Gale said: “Developing partnerships is a key ambition of the University of Cumbria and being able to spend even a short time here may well pay off in the longer term for Cumbria, the region and the UK in general."