Partnership Covers Shared Research Labs in STEM Fields and Joint Scientific Initiatives to Advance Global Research and Talent Development
Khalifa University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), one of China’s leading research institutions, have entered into a comprehensive Academic Cooperation Agreement aimed at strengthening international collaboration in education, research, and talent exchange. The two partners also launched the Middle East Hub for Cultural and Educational Exchange.
The university-level agreement establishes a wide-reaching framework for joint initiatives. Some of the key initiatives include student and faculty exchanges, collaborative research programs, academic events, and the long-term development of shared scientific infrastructure, with active participation from SJTUs Global College and Global Institute of Future Technology. A significant component of the collaboration includes plans to develop joint scientific research initiatives, with the long-term goal of establishing shared research laboratories in STEM fields.
The Middle East Hub for Cultural and Educational Exchange is envisioned as a regional platform to facilitate student and faculty mobility, joint research endeavors, and wider forms of academic cooperation between the UAE, China, and the broader international community. By combining strengths in research, teaching, and international collaboration, Khalifa University and Shanghai Jiao Tong University plan to expand opportunities for students and researchers while contributing to advancements in science and technology that benefit both nations.
His Excellency Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President, Khalifa University, said: “This agreement marks an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to build strong international partnerships that accelerate scientific excellence and innovation. Collaborating with a distinguished institution like Shanghai Jiao Tong University enhances opportunities for students of both institutions, enriches research environment, and strengthens the global impact of the UAE’s knowledge economy. We look forward to shaping the next generation of scientists and engineers together through meaningful academic and research exchange.”
Professor Ding Kuiling, President, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, said: “Shanghai Jiao Tong University is committed to nurturing global talent and advancing cutting edge research through international cooperation. Our partnership with Khalifa University opens new pathways for joint scientific discovery, cultural understanding, and shared academic development. Together, we aim to build a dynamic platform that empowers students and researchers from both nations to contribute to solving the world’s grand challenges.”
Both universities will implement a Student Exchange Program enabling up to five undergraduate or graduate students from each institution to study at the partner university every academic semester. Exchange students will receive full credit recognition for approved coursework completed abroad, subject to established academic policies. In addition, both universities will organize annual programs such as winter camps, summer camps, and research internships designed to enrich academic and cultural exposure of students.
The agreement fosters a Faculty Exchange Program that encourages reciprocal visits for teaching, research collaboration, and the joint academic activities. Faculty members from both institutions will serve as mentors and co-advisors, providing guidance to exchange students in their academic progress and research activities.
The program includes tuition-fee waivers for incoming exchange students, as well as funding support from each home university in accordance with their respective scholarship policies. In addition, eligible PhD students at Khalifa University may qualify for a Full Scholarship supported in partnership with the China Scholarship Council (CSC).
Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
