Twenty-five female students from the United Arab Emirates and Qatar visited the University of Aberdeen today (Friday, February 1) as part of a three-week visit to Scotland.
The visitors are on a study trip organised by Al-Maktoum Institute for Arabic and Islamic Studies, the fifth year in a row the academic training programme has been run by the Dundee-based Institute.
The third and fourth-year students from Zayed, Abu Dhabi and Qatar Universities are being trained for future potential leadership in the Emirates, where women are more involved in Government, the law and politics than ever before.
They toured the Aberdeen campus and were introduced to staff ahead of their planned return to the University later this month, when they will hear from female senior management figures from across the University.
Their visit forms a key part of their degree course studies. Various activities arranged by the Institute, including a trip to the Scottish Parliament, have been tailored to advance their overall learning and understanding of Scotland, and the challenges of global dialogue and exchange.
Professor Malory Nye, Acting Principal of Al-Maktoum Institute, said: "There is a recognised, increasing role for Emirati women in today's UAE where there are already two female Government ministers and the first female judges have been appointed.
"We are working to educate the next generation of scholars – both nationally and internationally – in the study of Islam and Muslims and multiculturalism to enable them to face the challenges and opportunities of today."
The University of Aberdeen validates the postgraduate degree programmes offered by Al-Maktoum Institute.
Professor Angela Black, Director of the Graduate School for the Colllege of Arts and Social Sciences, said: "I'm delighted to extend a warm welcome to the students on behalf of the University of Aberdeen.
"They are here not only to study but also to learn more about our local culture and to enjoy what Aberdeen and, indeed, Scotland has to offer."
Other trips for the students include Stirling Castle, Edinburgh, Glasgow as well as classes and debates with local students.
For more information visit www.almi.abdn.ac.uk