We are honoured to announce that the University of Warwick has welcomed former Economics student, His Excellency Luis Alberto Arce Catacora, President of the Plurinational State of Bolivia, back to the university’s Coventry campus to talk with students, answer questions and hear more about research being undertaken.

His Excellency graduated from Warwick in 1997, with a Masters in Economics, and inspired a group of gathering students about his studies; answering questions about his life in public service, and how his time at Warwick informed his career, and industrialisation.

Commenting about one of his favourite memories studying at Warwick, His Excellency President Luis Arce said:

"I wanted to go to one of the UK’s top ten universities, and I think I made the best choice.

“I read the best books here, studied hard, and learnt a lot, especially the scientific foundations of economics.”

You can watch the full student interview below.

His Excellency was taken on a campus tour, given directly by the University of Warwick's Vice-Chancellor, Professor Stuart Croft himself, which included seeing many recent developments such as the newly transformed Arts Centre, the National Automotive Innovation Centre, the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Research Building and more.

His Excellency also met with our Warwick researchers involved with the UK’s response to the Covid19 pandemic and the development of green technology.

On his impression of how Warwick has developed since his time at Warwick, His Excellency said:

“I am really impressed. When I was here, campus was small compared with now. We have a huge campus now, many faculties, new buildings, new subjects and research subjects.”

Professor Stuart Croft, the University of Warwick’s Vice Chancellor, said:

“We’re honoured to have welcomed His Excellency Luis Alberto Arce Catacora back to his second home here at Warwick. It is always special to see graduates make their mark in the world, and even more special when they return to Warwick and our region to share their experience and insights with our community.

“His Excellency’s visit was a unique opportunity for our students to hear from a global leader and it was a pleasure to provide His Excellency the opportunity to see how the university has continued to grow and develop since his time as a Warwick student.”