Two Welsh universities have allayed concerns of a possible merger after they announced they will be working together to create a “strategic alliance”.

The University of South Wales (USW) and University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), which runs the campus in Lampeter, have agreed to form a strategic alliance in order to ’respond to the economic and societal challenges facing Wales – particularly within a post-Covid context.’

Both institutions have committed to working together on a national mission to strengthen Wales’ innovation capacity, supporting economic regeneration and the renewal of its communities.

UNISON University of South Wales branch secretary Dan Beard said they “cautiously welcome” the news of partnership, but they do have some reservations and feel they must hold the university management account.

Mr Beard said: “It does have potential to build on the strengths of the two universities and help us set a strategy of growth and give assurance to staff.

“However, we must note that there is little appetite for anything more than a partnership – a university merger would be unwelcome, would be costly and would distract staff from their core missions in their time of uncertainty.

“We recognise we have been given assurances this is a strategic partnership and not the blueprint for a merger but it would be fair to say we have some reservations and will be upholding our customary role of holding university management to account and being a critical friend over this partnership period.”

In a joint statement, UWTSD and USW said: “The Deed of Associations acknowledges each institution’s autonomy and distinctiveness as strong historic brands which will remain independent, but also marks the collective values of both institutions and their potential to deliver tangible benefits and impact for Wales through collaboration.

“In particular, working together to drive digital innovation, knowledge transfer, research innovation, workforce development and to provide a ready pipeline of skilled students and graduates, in partnership with employers within priority sectors.”

Professor Medwin Hughes, DL, Vice-Chancellor of UWTSD added: “Wales needs to be innovative in its educational system and delivery frameworks in order to establish inter and intra-regional groupings which will enhance economic delivery, support social capital and drive forward greater regional Post-16 education pathways.

“In doing so, we will secure greater synergy in our skills delivery and establish far stronger strategic partnerships with government and employers.”