First official visit by Emirati students to Ethiopia
Abu Dhabi, 23 February 2012 - Sorbonne Abu Dhabi International Law, Diplomacy and International Relations Masters students presented today on campus a multimedia report on their visit to the Africa Union (AU) headquarters in Addis Ababa back in February. With this trip they aimed to enhance their knowledge and gain a broader insight into the bilateral UAE and African relations. Lasting five days, the group comprised of five Masters students, were hosted by His Excellency Dr. Youssef Issa Hassan Al Sabri, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Ethiopia, Permanent Representative to the African Union.
During the presentation, these five master students will share their learnings about the importance of African relations with the UAE and the UAE's role as an observer member of the AU. This encounter was valuable for students to have a first-hand experience of the life and duties of an Ambassador, the significance of international relations as well as the protocol and procedures of an Embassy overseas.
The public watched a short film about this trip, showcasing how the master students met with several organisations and government officials for discussions on various aspects of the African economy, legal system and initiatives. At the AU headquarters they were made aware of the accomplishments and milestones achieved by the AU in terms of legal matters including the state of ratification of treaties by Member States as well as measures undertaken to promote peace and security, education and the development of youth in Africa. The master students also visited the European Union Delegation to the African Union and the Addis Ababa University and, with a view to fully understand the international importance of Africa and its youth in the development of the economic opportunities in this continent.
Prof. Dr. Jean Yves de Cara, Executive Director of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, "Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi continuously works towards preparing our students, leaders of tomorrow, to support the economic diversification and future objectives of the country. At Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, our specially designed courses encourage our students to think like leaders and to develop solutions that will benefit the country. We would like to extend our gratitude to H.E. Dr. Youssef Issa Hassan Al Sabri, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of Ethiopia, Permanent Representative to the African Union; the African Union and various officials for cooperating with us to ensure our academic integrity that enabled our students to foster a better comprehension of the African continent's efforts and potential."
Majed Alkhemeiri, representing the students of Master's International Law, Diplomacy and International Relations and who is simultaneously studying a Bachelor of Geography and Planning and is a graduate of History by Sorbonne, said, "This visit is the first by a student delegation from the UAE and it created a positive influence within our academic programmes as well as raised the profile of the country on an international level. It was a remarkable opportunity for us to deepen our knowledge and learn more about our future with a continent that holds immense possibilities. Our courses are geared towards serving the country in fulfilling roles that will eventually help us to achieve the objectives defined by our leaders."
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi serves as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's emerging higher education strategy to create a knowledge-based economy. Part of its Economic Vision 2030, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi is committed to deliver the future Emirati and international workforce with exclusively tailored courses aimed at accommodating the region's long-term requirements and prospective job market.
© Press Release 2012
