Prato and Monash University sign memorandum to strengthen ties

The City of Prato and Monash University have signed a new memorandum of understanding to strengthen scientific, cultural, and economic ties. The agreement follows an institutional mission to Australia by Prato Mayor Matteo Biffoni to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Monash University campus in Prato.

Since its opening in 2001, the Prato campus has hosted over 9,600 Australian students. The new partnership aims to expand collaboration through joint projects on urban resilience, sustainability, and inclusive urban design. It also includes provisions for applied learning, student mobility, and co-funded workshops and symposia.

During his visit to various Australian campuses, including Clayton and Parkville, Mayor Biffoni engaged with researchers regarding technological innovation, sustainable mobility, and pharmaceutical sciences. The mission was attended by Monash Vice-Chancellor Sharon Pickering and the Italian Ambassador to Australia, Nicola Lener.