Josep Pallarès has been re-elected as rector of the Rovira i Virgili University (URV) in an event held last Friday, where he obtained an impressive 72% of the votes, an unprecedented figure in the history of the institution. His new term, which will last for six years, will focus on putting people at the centre of the educational process and transforming the university to meet the needs of the 21st century.
Transformation and clear objectives
In his inaugural speech, Pallarès highlighted his commitment to dual training and new learning models that promote internationalisation and global partnerships. “I am convinced that we will be able to mobilise more than 150 million euros to transform our university,” he stated, emphasising the importance of these investments for the academic and social future of the region.
Pallarès also expressed his desire for URV to continue being a fundamental pillar for local economic and social development. “We want to contribute to business competitiveness, improve public services, and foster effective social cohesion,” he added during his speech.
The Minister of Research and Universities, Núria Montserrat, was present at the event and supported the new rector's proposals. In this regard, Pallarès requested the Government to improve funding for the university system, proposing to allocate at least 1% of GDP to universities and research. “Investing in higher education is investing in the future of the country,” he emphasised.
Pallarès outlined several ambitious projects that will be carried out during his term. Among them is the development of a new health ecosystem around the Bellissens campus and the relocation of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences. He also mentioned plans to create new research spaces on the Sescelades campus and build additional buildings in El Vendrell and Vilafranca.
“URV has shown that university excellence is not the exclusive heritage of large capitals” – Núria Montserrat
Montserrat celebrated the achievements of URV during its more than 30 years of existence, highlighting how it has managed to root knowledge and innovation in the region. Collaboration between universities and institutions is essential to build a robust educational ecosystem that benefits both the present and the future of the country.
As Josep Pallarès begins this new chapter as rector, it is clear that his vision aligns with the current needs of the academic environment. The significant investment proposed not only seeks to modernise infrastructures but also to strengthen ties with local and international companies. With these efforts, Pallarès hopes to position URV as an educational benchmark capable of attracting talent and generating a positive impact both inside and outside the classroom.
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