Dundee’s Al Maktoum College has teamed up with Trinity College Dublin to further the development of Middle Eastern studies in Ireland.
The alliance has led to a new centre for Middle Eastern Studies at Trinity and the appointment of four new professors.
Al Maktoum Centre for Middle Eastern Studies will be part of Trinity’s School of Languages, Literature and Cultural Studies and its activities are expected to go beyond the university.
Acting Head of College at Al-Maktoum College of Higher Education, Dr Abi Abubaker, said: “This agreement with Trinity College is of great significance to the Al Maktoum College.
“It not only validates the quality of programmes we now offer but also, importantly, provides a first step towards an even closer and long-lasting academic collaboration between us and Trinity College.”
A new degree course in Middle Eastern and European Languages and Cultures will be taught at the centre, recognising the contributions made by Middle Eastern cultures and religions.
Professor Anne Fitzpatrick, head of Near and Middle Eastern Studies at Trinity, said: “It is a great honour for Trinity to be the recipient of this level of support.
“The opportunity it will provide to generations of students will no doubt contribute to greater understanding and fruitful relations as students graduate as global citizens.”
