ABU DHABI, 24th September, 2016 (WAM) -- Abu Dhabi Housing Authority (ADHA) and Abu Dhabi University (ADU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the opportunities for co-operating in scientific research.

Areas of shared cooperation will include field studies, academic applications of housing related activities and the development of scientific methodology used for pre-planning and forecasting Abu Dhabis housing needs, in addition to developing student internships and training.

The MoU was signed at a ceremony held on the universitys Abu Dhabi campus by H Saif Bader Al Qubaisi, Director-General of ADHA, and Dr. Terry Motiuk, Vice Chancellor of ADU, in the presence of a number of officials from both organisations.

Commenting on the significance of this co-operation, Al Qubaisi explained that the ADHA is keen to establish strategic cooperation with various government agencies and private institutions to achieve its goals in providing adequate housing for citizens in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

"The Abu Dhabi Housing Authority is looking forward to benefiting from the fruitful results of this partnership, especially as it will allow the ADHA access to the universitys comprehensive studies and scientific research related to housing topics that will aid in the development of housing programs that are tailored specifically to the UAE community. This collaboration will also be a great opportunity for students, faculty and researchers at Abu Dhabi University to benefit from the rich sources of information and field studies exclusively accessible to the ADHA", added Al Qubaisi.

Dr. Motiuk expressed the universitys pride in this partnership, because of the role it will play in opening up new horizons for students, researchers and faculty of ADU, especially for the College of Engineerings departments of civil engineering and architecture. "Our engineering students will benefit immensely from the opportunity to learn from experts and engineers, applying their vast expertise in various and complex projects that the ADHA undertakes.

''Through this MoU, our faculty and researchers will have the opportunity to share their knowledge and theories, while working firsthand with field engineers on developing research that is set to boost the housing sector of the nations capital. Our students and ADHA staff will also have the advantage of participating in practical and field training opportunities, in addition to participating in conferences and scientific symposia. Perhaps the most distinguishing feature of this co-operation is its focus on developing field studies, and implementing scientific solutions and innovative proposals that will improve the housing sector, in line with the values, customs and traditions of the UAE," he added.

The MoU also stipulates that both parties will collaborate on the development and implementation of scientific conferences, seminars, training courses, and workshops that serve their common objectives. Additionally, both parties will collaborate in developing surveys related to the housing sector, such as planning new cities, the building materials industry and construction, while taking into account standards of sustainability and preservation of the environment.

Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2016.