Ajman University has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with NYU Abu Dhabi to foster mutual cooperation in the area of education and research, as well as further strengthen the existing landscape for academic, scientific, artistic and athletic advancements.

The agreement was signed by Ajman University Chancellor Dr Karim Seghir and NYU Abu Dhabi vice chancellor Al Bloom at a ceremony held at Ajman University campus which saw the attendance of vice-chancellors, deans, and special guests, said a statement.

The MoU outlines parameters of comprehensive cooperation for set areas of collaboration between the two universities, including academics, arts, athletics, co-curricular activities and community service. Leading representatives and department heads from both institutions will spearhead each area of collaboration, it said.

Ajman University and NYU Abu Dhabi will also host joint events, conduct joint research, as well as promote student, faculty, and staff exchange agreements. The agreement provides a strategic framework for cooperation that encourages a mutual sustainable partnership between both universities as they pursue projects within these fields that further build and advance the regional academic landscape, it added.

The agreement comes as a result of the success of an initial collaboration between The Arts Center at NYU Abu Dhabi and Ajman University, which saw The Arts Center bring popular comedian Maysoon Zayid to perform an immensely well-received show on Ajman University’s campus following her Abu Dhabi debut in September 2017 as part of The Arts Center’s ongoing third season.

The collaboration was further expanded at an event in which The Arts Center brought Kronos Quartet founder David Harrington to deliver an artist talk/listening session to an audience of Ajman University students, faculty and VIPs.

These activities were created in response to broader discussions regarding the role that NYUAD could play in expanding the reach of its ground-breaking programs to serve the Northern Emirates along with its strategic partner Ajman University.

Seghir said: “The university is keen on ensuring that students enjoy a comprehensive tenure during their academic career. It is laterally joining hands with educational institutions across the UAE, and globally, to give students a chance to explore, experience and exchange knowledge with others.”

“The connection between Ajman University and New York University-Abu Dhabi is a deep one.  I strongly believe, both institutions are deeply devoted to their common goal of graduating well-rounded minds and putting higher education to work for the greater good of society. We share a profound sense of local and global responsibility with our students and our communities. All of the partnerships that grow from this MOU will be linked to making an impact in the UAE and beyond,” he added.

Bloom said: “We are delighted and proud to celebrate the signing of a MoU with Ajman University expressing our mutual commitment to enriching the quality of both of our institutions through distinctive contributions we can each make to one another, especially in the areas of student life, community vitality and educational breadth.”

“It is highly meaningful to initiate this collaboration between our university situated in the Capital and one in the Emirate of Ajman during the Year of Zayed as it builds in the educational sector on the unity across the Emirates that Sheikh Zayed envisioned and forged. Developing this partnership offers a powerful means for building connectivity and common understanding and purpose among leading institutions in the UAE,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service