Synopsys, a leader in software and IP for semiconductor design and manufacturing, and the Jordan-based Princess Sumaya University for Technology (PSUT), have signed a MoU to jointly implement a VLSI design program at the university.

As per the agreement, Synopsys and PSUT will offer a university-level microelectronics education program in Jordan based on the Synopsys University Tools Package and customised curriculum for electronic design automation (EDA).

The goal of the collaboration is to educate Jordanian students in integrated circuit design so they can help lead Jordan into its next stage of technology development, said PSUT president Dr Issa Batarseh after signing the deal on the sidelines of 'Mena ICT Forum' held recently.

Mena ICT Forum is one of the region’s foremost Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Information and Communications Technology Enabled Services (ICTES) industry events.

This year's forum witnessed over 65 distinguished speakers from leading private and public ICT and ICTES entities from around the globe discuss key issues concerning the ICT and ICTES industry.

Commenting on the deal, Dr Batarseh said, 'The agreement is a credit for PSUT as it makes further strides in excellence and promotes unstinting efforts to have able graduates who can provide high-quality services to their country and to the world as a whole.'

“As Synopsys has longstanding and unique experience in microelectronics, we are proud of this co-operation and we are sure that it will definitely bring up mutual benefits,” he added.

PSUT, founded in 1991, is a non-profit private university serving as the academic arm of the El Hassan Science City. It is owned by the Royal Scientific Society with a main target of achieving quality research and education.

Synopsys said the company aimed to apply its experience in microelectronics education to the university’s VLSI Design Program in order to prepare graduates for work in the industry.

It will provide PSUT with a state-of-the-art educational environment that includes electronic design tools, an educational design kit and interoperable process design kit, customized curricula and guidance in implementing the program.

In addition, Synopsys plans to deliver support, advisors, faculty training, and exchanges for students and faculty.

“Universities are at the forefront of Jordan’s nascent transition to a knowledge based economy,” said Rich Goldman, vice president of Corporate Marketing and Strategic Alliances at Synopsys.

“The ability to provide well-qualified specialists to form the workforce is the foundation that this economy will be built upon. The planned co-operation between PSUT and Synopsys will help provide this foundation,” Goldman added.-TradeArabia News Service