Dubai School of Government launches Master of Public Administration Program

Dr. Mohamed Lahouel, Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, said:

"The launch of the MPA program is in line with the School's mission to advance good governance in the Arab world by providing quality education to policy makers."

He added: "We worked closely with the Harvard Kennedy School's Faculty Advisory Committee to ensure that this MPA meets the highest international standards of quality, while DSG ensures that the program content addresses the specific needs of the Arab public sector."

Designed to empower aspiring leaders from across the Arab world to successfully address the challenges and maximize the opportunities they face as public sector professionals, the program will provide rigorous academic training with an emphasis on the real-world practical application of theory. In addition to functional and regional specializations, participants will gain a deep understanding of the development of public administration internationally and within the region. The program has been accredited by the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation is offering scholarships to program participants covering tuition and housing for twelve months starting in mid-January 2008, the commencement date for the first cohort of students.

Participants will include individuals from both the public and private sectors, as well as credible candidates for leadership positions in government and public interest institutions such as the media and non-governmental organizations.

The School has signed a number of memoranda of understanding with Arab governments to provide academic and executive education programs for representatives of various ministries and public sector organizations, as well as to undertake research associated with public management and public policy. In addition, the School will work closely with Arab governments towards enhancing cooperative ties among public policy organizations and associations in the Arab world.

The Dubai School of Government (DSG) is a research and teaching institution focusing on public policy in the Arab world. Established in 2005 under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, in cooperation with the Harvard Kennedy School, DSG aims to promote good governance through enhancing the region's capacity for effective public policy.

Toward this goal, the Dubai School of Government also collaborates with regional and global institutions in delivering its research and training programs. In addition, the School organizes policy forums and international conferences to facilitate the exchange of ideas and promote critical debate on public policy in the Arab world.