New research and innovation opportunities to support the delivery of a healthier mid and west Wales have been unveiled through a collaborative partnership between the University of Wales Trinity Saint David and Hywel Dda University Board.

The partnership “provides the framework outlining strategic intentions and delivery plans for education, research, and innovation” in a bid to transform health, care and digital services across the region.

The university and health board already work in collaboration on a number of initiatives and said the agreement will strengthen links between the two.

Activities will see both organisations undertaking collaborative research projects and maximising opportunities for new device and technology development.

The agreement will also facilitate new undergraduate and postgraduate provision, including opportunities for doctoral studies and a Digital Professional Masters’ programme.

There will also be opportunities for students to undertake internships and placements in clinical and non-clinical settings.

During the signing of a memorandum of understanding at the University’s Carmarthen campus, Prof Wendy Dearing, Dean of the university’s Institute of Management and Health said: “Today is about reaffirming our commitment to working together to benefit the health and wellbeing of our region by bringing our expertise together to make tangible differences to the lives of individuals in our communities.

“We are developing an exciting offer, not only in relation to new programmes and work-based learning initiatives but also in relation to innovative research and product development.”

Leighton Phillips, director for research, innovation and university partnerships at Hywel Dda said: “We have long enjoyed a deep and special partnership with the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

“This agreement provides the opportunity to take our partnership to the next level in the context of supporting a healthier mid and west Wales.

“Whether it is collaborating to develop new technologies and innovations or equipping the next generation of healthcare professionals to deliver high quality care to our communities, we look forward to what this next stage of partnership brings."

Prof Medwin Hughes, Vice-Chancellor of the university said: “I welcome the opportunity to sign a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen the university’s partnership with Hywel Dda University Health Board.

“The partnership will enable us to develop transformation opportunities together to support the health and wellbeing of our region.

“Such opportunities including the development of world-class translational research and innovation as well applied technical and digital skills, so that we can build capacity, address skills deficits, upskill and reskill the workforce, particularly post pandemic.”