Zayed University, ZU, has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding, MoU, with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, UNITAR, at Abu Dhabi campus.

The UNITAR, which is based in Geneva, is a training arm of the United Nations System that aims to develop capacities of individuals, organisations and institutions to enhance global decision-making and to support country-level action for shaping a better future.

Prof. Reyadh AlMehaideb, Vice President of ZU and Rabih El Haddad, Manager of the Multilateral Diplomacy Programme in UNITAR, acting on behalf of Sally FeganWyles, United Nations Assistant Secretary-General, Acting Head, Executive Director, signed the MoU.

It is worth mentioning that ZU is the first university in the Arab world to sign such an agreement with the UNITAR.

"It is a great opportunity for us to establish a mutually beneficial partnership with UNITAR, utilize our and its existing resources and facilities for the benefit of our students and faculty members," Pro. AlMehaideb said.

" ZU has always been committed to develop the research capacity of undergraduate and graduate students to meet one of the highlights of the UAE Government Strategy, which aims to build a cadre of qualified nationals who are able to lead and compete for opportunities once they step in the UAE labour market," he added.

The MoU will remain in force for three years and is renewable for a similar period by mutual agreement.

"The MoU came to provide training and skills assessments for ZU students and the UAE community at large, secure internships and traineeships for exceptional students of ZU within the United Nations system worldwide, deliver regular, high-level lecture series by United Nations practitioners on regional and multilateral issues, open to a wider audience including civil society and private sector, and organize study tours for students in various cities, where key United Nations entities work on matters related to multilateral diplomacy and international relations such as New York City, Geneva and Vienna," El Haddad explained.

"Several content-based and skills development workshops will also be conducted to widen students' knowledge. We also look forward to benefit and learn from the pool of qualified faculty members at ZU . We will do our best to make this experience a success," he added.

When asked why UNITAR chose ZU among many other universities to cooperate with, El Haddad answered: " ZU holds the name of the beloved late founding father, Sheikha Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who had a creative vision and incredible leadership strategies. ZU is also a leading university in the UAE recognized globally for its participation in educational and cultural achievements and enrichment of economic and social development."

Undergraduate and graduate students will be chosen from different colleges at the university to participate in the UNITAR programs and workshops.

Professor Dr. Ibrahim Souss, who will be in charge of overseeing the establishment and the implementation of the join programmes with UNITAR emphasised, "Students will be chosen from all colleges at ZU and selected according to a specific criteria of academic achievement and personal motivation."

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