The Fletcher School and the Abu Dhabi Education Council Announce Joint Venture

Medford, Massachusetts – The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University and the Abu Dhabi Education Council have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), beginning a process that both parties hope will lead to The Fletcher School offering a one-year master’s degree program in Abu Dhabi.

Under the MOU signed on 10 September 2006 by Mubarak Al-Shamesi, Director General of the Abu Dhabi Education Council and Stephen W. Bosworth, Dean of The Fletcher School, the parties will undertake negotiations in the coming months to enable Fletcher to commence operations in Abu Dhabi as soon as possible. The MOU also envisions the expansion of other Tufts University operations in Abu Dhabi.

“We are excited about the prospect of collaborating with The Fletcher School in this joint venture,” said Mr. Al-Shamesi. “Together we are at the forefront of higher education in the Gulf region.”

Founded in 1933, The Fletcher School is the oldest exclusively graduate school of international affairs in the United States. Fletcher offers an interdisciplinary, professional education to students from around the world and enjoys an active alumni network spanning over 130 countries.

“This is an ambitious endeavor, and we’re enthusiastic about the opportunity to strengthen The Fletcher School’s links to this important region,” said Dean Bosworth. “Fletcher’s vibrant learning culture and dynamic community of students and faculty provide the highest quality academic experience available.” The new program will fully meet The Fletcher School’s standards of academic excellence.

The MOU also describes two research centers to be established in Abu Dhabi and Medford. The centers will sponsor an ambitious research program, organize events, and use cutting-edge technology to create an innovative learning environment across two continents.

For more information about the Abu Dhabi Education Council, visit www.adedco.org