Exeter University approves Saudi Arabia training partnership
The University of Exeter has approved a formal partnership with Saudi Arabia under which academics will deliver a master’s degree in applied security and strategy to a cohort at the National Defense University in Riyadh. The agreement could generate millions of pounds for Exeter and comes amid concerns about the Saudi government’s human rights record.
The University of Exeter has approved plans for a formal partnership with Saudi Arabia to train senior military officers and government officials, according to the Guardian.
Under the agreement, Exeter academics will deliver an MA in applied security and strategy, also known as an MStrat, to a cohort at the National Defense University in Riyadh.
The deal could generate millions of pounds for the university. It has been approved despite long-held concerns about the Saudi government’s human rights record.
THE QUESTIONS THIS EVENT LEAVES BEHIND
What oversight will govern the university’s teaching and partnership at the National Defense University?
How will the agreement affect the university’s handling of concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record?
What financial terms determine whether the partnership generates millions of pounds?
Which officials or military officers will be eligible to join the programme?
What conditions, if any, could lead Exeter to end the partnership?
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