|
||||||||||||
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Discusses Key Operational Issues |
||||||||||||
|
Paris-Sorbonne University - Abu Dhabi’s Board of Management held its second regular retreat attended by H.E. Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director General of Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) and Board Member of Paris-Sorbonne University-Abu Dhabi (PSUAD); and Professor Georges Molini , President of PSUAD. The board discussed the challenges facing higher education institutions in the UAE, and ADEC’s strategic plan to develop and improve higher education opportunities in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. As part of this plan, ADEC aims to attract the world’s leading universities to open campuses in Abu Dhabi, which will help enrich higher educational offerings and develop graduates who are able to meet the job market needs of the emirate. The achievements made by PSUAD since its inauguration, as well as relevant future challenges, were the main focus of the meeting. Board members were briefed on grades, student enrolment and faculty numbers, research initiatives, financing, and additional programs provided by PSUAD and other external institutions. Board members also discussed the new facilities in the new permanent campus and findings from a recent student survey detailing reasons for joining PSUAD. Board members agreed that it is important to develop a global recruitment strategy that will draw students from around the world to study in Abu Dhabi. The Board of Management decided that English and French will be the languages of study at PSUAD in order for students to develop a comprehensive range of skills that will help them compete in the international labor market. In order to meet the goals of Abu Dhabi Government of turning Abu Dhabi into a knowledge-based society, board members agreed that high quality programs and research projects must be provided, and diverse teaching strategies should be used at PSUAD. Board members also considered a one-year foundation program in French intended for improving student proficiency in French before students join the university. The Board of Management decided that it is preferred that permanent faculty be recruited and employed according to PSUAD standards to ensure that high quality education is provided in Abu Dhabi. Board members also discussed offering masters programs that are aligned with the future needs of Abu Dhabi, as well as the possibility of creating research centers and organizing regular conferences and seminars establishing a link between PSUAD and the Abu Dhabi and regional community. |
||||||||||||
