Zayed University, HFDAP to enhance academic innovation

Zayed University (ZU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Distinguished Academic Performance (HFDAP) to support innovative thinking skills and creativity within academic institutions.

The initiative aims to enhance academic excellence and provide ZU students with the skills and knowledge, to better achieve their future aspirations and contribute to the community.

The MoU details a comprehensive cooperation framework whereby both parties agree to share knowledge and hold joint events to raise awareness about the importance of innovative and creative thinking in enhancing academic excellence. They will also jointly encourage students to enrol in the FAB Lab UAE initiative, which uses the most recent technologies, tools, and programmes in digital manufacturing.

Sulaiman Abdul-Khaleq Al-Ansari, Executive Director of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Distinguished Academic Performance, and Professor Clayton MacKenzie, Zayed University’s Provost and Chief Academic Officer, signed the MoU during a ceremony at the university’s Dubai campus, in the presence of academics and staff from both parties.

Dr. Jamal Mohammed Al Muhairi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees and Secretary-General of the Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Distinguished Academic Performance, expressed gratitude for this cooperation, stressing, "The two institutions possess technical expertise and capabilities that will undoubtedly contribute to enabling creative talents. By infusing creativity and innovation in the education sector, we positively contribute to creating a knowledge-based society, which is an essential element of the ambitious UAE national strategy."

Commenting on the collaboration, Professor MacKenzie, said, "We look forward to the positive outcomes of this cooperation, particularly in the areas of training and academic research, that will bring mutual benefits to students, researchers and the community. This opens opportunities for our students to develop their skills further and positively contribute to the UAE’s strategic vision."