jordan pulse -

Amman – Middle East University (MEU) hosted an evening event celebrating the 5th anniversary of its international hosted programmes in collaboration with the University of Bedfordshire and the University of Strathclyde.

The event highlighted the notable growth and impact of the "UKDEGREESMEU" initiative, which has offered students an exceptional educational experience, granting them globally recognised degrees. Over 500 graduates have received UK degrees while studying in Jordan.

The event was sponsored by the British Ambassador, Mr. Philip Hall, and attended by Dr. Yaacoub Nasereddin, Chairman of the Board of Trustees; Dr. Sana Shquairah, Chairwoman of the Board; Professor Salam Mahadin, President of the University; alongside members of the Board of Trustees, deans, and stakeholders, including representatives from the partner universities.

The evening included an awards ceremony recognising students and graduates who excelled across various programmes. Graduates of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from the University of Bedfordshire were honoured, along with the first cohort of students from the Master’s in Applied Translation programme, who started their journey last year and have now successfully completed the programme.

In his remarks, British Ambassador Mr. Philip Hall expressed confidence in the benefits that MEU graduates have already brought to Jordan and will continue to bring in the future, stating that these contributions will only grow over time.

He emphasised the importance of enhancing collaboration in higher education, stressing the need to continue building bridges of knowledge and creating opportunities for future leaders to empower them to improve the world we live in.

Professor Salam Mahadin, President of MEU, affirmed the university's commitment to fulfilling the vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II, noting that modern, comprehensive education is key to creating the desired change. She highlighted that no investment yields greater returns than investment in education.

She added that MEU views innovation in higher education through its hosted programmes, which have revolutionised education by bringing British universities to a Jordanian campus. This partnership provides an exceptional opportunity for those who cannot or do not wish to travel abroad for their studies.

Mahadin also reflected on the challenges faced, from the COVID-19 pandemic to various political transitions, but concluded that the university’s success is evident in the many graduates present, including six who are now working at MEU.

Mr. Alex Lambert, Director of the British Council in Jordan, described the partnership as a proud achievement, noting that 5 years of dedicated work have resulted in 500 graduates.

Lambert invited the attendees to join the UK Alumni Network, which offers British degree holders, whether they studied in the UK or Jordan, access to numerous educational and intellectual resources.

He explained that the network, launched globally in November 2022 and in Jordan earlier this year, boasts over 40,000 members worldwide. It is a vibrant platform offering opportunities and resources to help members pursue their aspirations.