Nahayan signs agreement between Zayed University and Knowledge and Human Development Authority

His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education & Scientific Research, President of Zayed University, signed a cooperation agreement between Zayed University 'ZU' and the Knowledge & Human Development Authority in Dubai 'KHDA'.

His Excellency Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Chairman of the Board of Directors and Director General of KHDA signed the agreement on behalf of KHDA. The signing was attended by His Excellency Dr. Sulaiman Al Jassim, Vice President of Zayed University and several officials of both institutes. The agreement highlightsthe financial support of the KHDA to Zayed University's new International College in the Knowledge Village.

His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan stressed the importance of strengthening universities' relations with the communities in Abu Dhabi and Dubai either by establishing partnerships with government, industry, the public schools, conducting graduate and continuing education programs mainly through these partnerships, or placing internships through them. Zayed University offers a broad range of programs of high quality research that serves the country's needs and strengthens connections with both the private and public sectors.

"We appreciate the guidance and leadership of His Highness, the President, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al-Nahayan. We are also grateful to His Highness, the Vice President, UAE Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum. And we appreciate, as well, the interest and encouragement of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Al-Nahayan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Their generous support of our students and their strong backing of the University are essential to our continued success", His Excellency added.

Dr. Al Karam said, "This agreement is an important step on the path of educational excellence. Opening the Zayed International College to male and female residents of UAE is forerunner to elevating educational standards in the country. The mix between nationalites, cultures and ethnic backgrounds will facilitate creativity, increase the level of competition and shape students for the workplace. KHDA will support all federal institutions that choose a similar path."

Dr. Sulaiman Al Jassim, Vice President of Zayed University, lauded the signing agreement with the KHDA reassuring that the establishment of Zayed International College in the Knowledge Village represents a diverse transition to the educational field. The support of the KHDA will definitely raise and enhance the programs and courses of the new established college.

Dr. Al Jassim mentioned that the university enhances the students' skills and capabilities, prepares them to face life, and embodies the learning outcomes they have learned in both Arabic and English languages, IT skills, and problem solving. The university is pleased to sign this agreement as it increases the students' academic and cultural awareness.

"The University academic programs and courses support the societal needs and encourage students to submit the ideas and innovations by using the advanced academic techniques they gained during their studies and internship", he concluded.

The seven-year agreement duration will see KHDA provide Zayed International College with financial support to the tune of AED5.4million. In return, ZU will offer educational services, academic support and consultation, in addition to training and developmental programs and scholarships for KHDA stakeholders in accordance with their requirements and the laws and regulations of the agreement.