A capsule look at some of the news generated from Gov. Phil Murphy’s recent economic mission to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, sponsored and supported by Choose New Jersey:
When: May 2
Where: Dubai, UAE
What happened: Kean University and Rowan University sign Memoranda of Understanding with universities in Dubai. Kean with the University of Dubai, American University in Dubai and University of Wollongong in Dubai; Rowan with the American University of Ras Al Khaimah. The agreements establish academic partnerships, strengthening research capabilities between institutions.
What is the aim for Kean? The school entered into MOUs with three universities, each a collaboration between research students and faculty members in academic areas of mutual interest, including opportunities for faculty and student exchange. The MOUs aim to create opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students to study, conduct and present research with the partner university.
What is the aim for Rowan? In addition to research & development, the Rowan University and American University of Ras Al Khaimah MOU will focus on strengthening cross-cultural ties between New Jersey and the UAE through student and faculty exchange programs and joint educational programs.
The talking points:
Murphy: “New Jersey’s education ecosystem is strengthened by our international academic partnerships. Research & development are essential for innovation, and the collaborations between Kean, Rowan and these leading global research universities benefit students and key industries in both regions. Not only will this collaboration and partnership bolster New Jersey’s future workforce, but it will also strengthen our economy by ensuring New Jersey continues to be a leader in emerging industries.”
Kean President Lamont Repollet: “These new partnerships reinforce Kean University’s role as a global academic leader. Collaborating with premier institutions such as the University of Dubai, American University in Dubai and the University of Wollongong in Dubai creates powerful opportunities for our students and faculty to engage in cross-cultural research and innovation. These agreements strengthen our commitment to academic excellence, global engagement and inclusive learning while preparing the next generation of leaders to thrive in an interconnected world.”
Rowan President Ali Houshmand: “Much of the research being conducted at Rowan has global implications. Partnering with other universities benefits our institutions, our students and our regions. This exchange provides students with broader perspectives, ultimately creating better business opportunities, attracting more people and improving our respective economies.”
Choose CEO Wes Mathews: “Investment in higher education partnerships strengthens New Jersey’s talent pipeline, fostering a skilled workforce leading innovative research in life sciences, technology, clean energy and other key industries that bolster our state’s economy. These MOUs reaffirm a commitment to academic excellence and a limitless pursuit of knowledge in collaboration with our international partners.”
