Research paves the path to recovery, universities tell Macron

French president announces return to campus and discusses higher education outlook during Élysée meeting

Emmanuel Macron, the president of France, has reportedly backed research and innovation as being “vital” for the country’s economic and social recovery, during a meeting with a delegation from the Conference of University Presidents (CPU).

According to the CPU, Macron said that research would play a crucial role in leading France out of the economic problems created by a nationwide shutdown to reduce Covid-19 infection rates. During the meeting at the Élysée Palace, held on 20 May at Macron’s initiative, university leaders spoke about the impact of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic on universities and about preparations for the next academic year.