6

Chapter 6

Higher education,
rest of the world

244

Branching out

270

Universidad Adventista de Chile

246

American University

272

Universidad de la Integracin de las Amricas

248

Azerbaijan State University of Economics

274

Universidad Tcnica Particular de Loja

250

Islamic Science University of Malaysia

276

Universidade Federal de Lavras

252

Khon Kaen University

278

Universidade Tiradentes

254

Kokshe Academy

280

Universidade Veiga de Almeida

256

La Universidad San Francisco de Quito

282

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman

258

North-West University

284

University of Iringa

260

Petroleum Institute

285 Yerevan State Medical University

262

Qatar University

264

Suranaree University of Technology

266

Tecnolgico de Monterrey

after Mkhitar Heratsi

286

University of Nizwa

Student mobility and

the ongoing push to raise
standards is encouraging
academic diversity and
depth across the globe.
This chapter features
higher education providers
from beyond Europe that
are delivering outstanding
results on a local, national
or international scale

244

Branching out
Our rising global population brings with it greater demand
for higher education, and universities throughout the world
are responding with innovative and accessible programmes

Sir David Attenborough recently described population growth as out of control.

He had a point. The number of people on planet Earth has more than doubled

These courses are reaching people who otherwise

wouldnt have the opportunity

in the past 50 years, hitting the seven billion mark in 2011. And according to
the latest United Nations figures, this figure is set to climb to almost 11 billion

provider, Udacity, has a masters in computing science with Georgia

by 2100. The impact on higher education will be huge; more people bring greater

Tech that both selects students and charges fees. Universities also

demand and traditional campus-based university study simply wont meet it.

are seeing the value of MOOCs as a branding tool. In January 2014,

Consequently, educators are embracing rapid growth, new technologies

the Dutch Minister of Education, Culture and Science committed

and exciting initiatives. A major shift has been internationalisation, which offers

1 million a year to developing open education resources, saying

a broader range of accessible on- and off-line courses. In this brave new world,

they are the business cards of Dutch universities.

greater numbers of students can gain a respected education from a university

Meanwhile, a spokesman for the UKs MOOC provider,

in almost any location, given the right technology and access.

FutureLearn, comments: Our partners see themselves as global

universities, and an MOOC is a huge opportunity to show the high

Branch campuses

quality of their courses. MOOCs are reaching people who otherwise

The 2013 British Council report The Shape of Things to Come tracks the evolution

wouldnt have the opportunity. They bring fascinating discussions,

of so-called transnational education (TNE), which enables students to gain a foreign

with people all over the world learning together.

qualification without leaving their home country. Opportunities include those offered
by more than 200 branch campuses worldwide, whereby respected institutions

Overseas education

set up shop in other parts of the world to reach local audiences who are seeking

A more familiar means of internationalising higher education occurs

a high-quality international education. The Paris Sorbonne Universitys campus in

when students travel from their home nation to a university elsewhere,

Abu Dhabi, the University of Nottinghams campuses in Malaysia and China, and

either for their entire degree or for part of their course. This remains

Cornell Universitys campus in Qatar are all good examples not least because the

popular as proven in January 2014, when the US Secretary of State

Middle and Far East are particularly popular regions for overseas outreach. A 2012

invested $1 million in student exchange programmes between US,

study by the Observatory on Borderless Higher Education found the countries

Latin American and Caribbean universities. Meanwhile, there are huge

hosting the most international branch campuses were the UAE, China, Singapore,

benefits to be reaped from taking an entire university course overseas.

Malaysia and Qatar.

Higher education is now one of the UKs most successful and rapidly

Then there are the online programmes. While the UKs Open University and

growing export sectors, said Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of

Canadas University of British Columbia are broadly considered the pioneers in this

Universities UK. It is not only about economic benefits. International

area, online and distance learning are now commonplace. Massive Open Online

students, researchers and staff also make an enormous contribution

Courses, or MOOCs, are set to change the face of formal education. Launched in

to academic and cultural life.

America in 2008 but gaining momentum since 2012, these were initially not-for-

Through this expanding range of platforms and models,

credit courses, designed by universities and made available to anyone, anywhere,

access to university education is increasing and expertise is shared

for free hence their eponymous massive audiences. The model is developing

worldwide. By embracing groundbreaking technologies, exciting

rapidly and, today, its remit is broadening. For example, the US-based MOOC

opportunities are opening up for the growing global student

provider Coursera now runs paid-for courses, and another US-based MOOC

community of the future.

245

Get engaged
A regular stop for some of the worlds most prominent
leaders, American University In Washington DC also attracts
many of the most enquiring student minds

Located in Washington DC, American University (AU) is near the heart of the US
seat of government. Its perhaps unsurprising, then, that the institution regularly tops
the Princeton Reviews list of universities with the most politically active students.
Washington is a living laboratory for our students, and we work very hard to ensure
they take full advantage, says Neil Kerwin, the universitys President. Students often
undertake internships at the countrys top companies, in Congress, in the Supreme
Court or even in the White House, or they could be posted with renowned
organisations such as National Geographic or The Washington Post.
AU is also a frequent stop for visiting dignitaries and officials. Guests who
have spoken on campus include President Obama; former US presidents John F
Kennedy, Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton; the Dalai Lama; Mikhail Gorbachev; and
Benazir Bhutto. The university operates in an environment that is actively engaged
with the great issues of our time, attracting students who are interested in creating
a better world.
A private research university, AU has more than 13,000 students enrolled
across its seven schools and colleges, encompassing the fields of arts and
sciences, business, communications, international service, law, professional and
extended studies, and public affairs. This range of expertise serves students well.
For example, 89 per cent of undergraduates and 92 per cent of masters students
who completed their degrees in 2012 either work in their chosen field or attend
graduate or professional school.
International studies and research focus
Committed to delivering a high-impact learning experience, AU invests an
enormous amount of energy in its study-abroad programme. Across the campus,
more than 72.4 per cent of students have participated in the programme, and
within the School of International Service that number rises to over 85 per cent.
While we have an entire school and faculty dedicated to international studies,
international experiences are woven into all our schools and colleges, explains
President Kerwin, so all students have the same opportunities.

246

Washington is a living laboratory for our students, and

we work very hard to ensure they take full advantage
The universitys undergraduate programme in international studies
is the largest of its kind in the USA. Were facing a growing number of
challenges that transcend national boundaries, and for sovereign states
to make decisions on issues such as climate, water, energy and internet
governance is increasingly difficult, says President Kerwin. This is
an area of research in which we excel and to which we are devoting
more resources.
AU is, however, careful to strike a balance between its dual roles
of educating the next generation and discovering new knowledge as a
doctorate-granting institution. Our research focus extends to undergraduate
programmes, explains President Kerwin. First-year students often benefit
from the universitys research opportunities.
Interdisciplinary approach
One of the universitys key strengths is in interdisciplinary research, and AU
has created talented teams of undergraduates who engage in problembased studies across an array of disciplines. The questions that we face
today go beyond the category of any one discipline and we want to develop
a curriculum that takes that into account, says AU Provost, Scott A Bass.
In one project, for instance, students of communications, public policy
and science worked collaboratively to develop a 10-year management plan
for a rainforest in Nicaragua, which they then visited to see how their ideas
worked in the real world. A similar approach is being used to develop AUs
new inquiry-based honours programme, commencing in autumn 2014,
which is designed for a select group of very high-achieving students.
Staff from different disciplines will work with students on an important
question, and develop that as the modality for approaching the field.
Based in a city where large-scale issues are addressed every day,
AU is an internationally focused centre of learning where students relish
the opportunity to tackle big challenges with an open mind.

www.american.edu

247

Firm potential
Azerbaijan State University of Economics offers first-rate
career prospects to its graduates, which enable them to
excel both at home and abroad

248

Foreign companies that have braved the sometimes

turbulent waters of life in the former Soviet Union

The Special Talented Groups produce highly skilled economists, many of whom find
great jobs with companies in Azerbaijan or with Azeri firms abroad

know that a little local know-how can go a very long

way. Businesses need to be aware of potential pitfalls,

With this in mind, those in charge at ASUE

in government ministries, including the Ministry of

and an in-depth knowledge of a regions commercial

understood two crucial points early on. First, in order

Economic Development, the Ministry of Finance

environment is invaluable for those seeking to establish

to be taken seriously around the world, the institution

and the Ministry of Taxes.

a foothold. Thats why overseas firms working in

would have to provide a high-quality education.

Azerbaijan tend to employ graduates from Azerbaijan

And second, the ability to speak foreign languages

International links

State University of Economics (ASUE).

would open doors for its students.

ASUE has also developed close links with international

Many of them already speak at least two languages

organisations, such as the World Bank, the World

Modern establishment

Azeri and Russian and its not unusual for students

Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Intellectual

Founded in 1930 and based in the countrys capital of

to speak Turkish, too, since the latter is related to Azeri.

Property Organization. The latters depository library

Baku, ASUE offers a range of degrees and PhDs in the

But as a forward-looking university, ASUE also offers

is based at ASUE, whose students have access to it,

fields of finance, business, economics and commerce.

courses in English, French, German and Arabic, which,

as well as to the WTOs Reference Centre, which is

The university has around 18,000 students and is

in todays globalised business environment, perfectly

also based at the university.

the most modern higher educational establishment

complements its main focus of teaching.

The universitys global reach is further illustrated

in Azerbaijan.

For its most able students, ASUE takes this

by its membership of several prestigious international

In fact, we are deemed one of the most prestigious

emphasis on languages a step further by offering

groups, such as the European University Association,

universities in the entire Caucasus region, explains

classes in Special Talented Groups, wherein all

the International Association of Universities, the

Professor Shamsaddin Hajiyev, the universitys Rector.

the teaching is carried out in English. The groups

Federation of Universities of the Islamic World and

This is thanks in no small measure to the universitys

are vehicles for leading international economists to

the Eurasian Association of Universities. In addition,

management, which showed considerable foresight

come and share their knowledge, and the students

it is part of the Bologna Process, whose participants

during the early years of Azerbaijani independence.

often attend summer schools abroad.

have helped create the European Higher Education

During the early 1990s, certain parts of the former Soviet

The Special Talented Groups produce highly

Area, based on international cooperation and

Union were always more likely to attract global attention

skilled economists, many of whom find great jobs

academic exchange.

than others and, with its rich oil deposits, its location

with both local and foreign companies in Azerbaijan

These international collaborations perfectly reflect

at a crossroads between Europe and the Middle East,

or with Azeri firms abroad, says Professor Hajiyev.

ASUEs ethos, as it produces graduates who can help

and its close historic links to Turkey, Azerbaijan was in

In addition, a great number of ASUE alumni

overseas companies prosper in Azerbaijan and also

a strong position.

work for Azerbaijans Central Bank or are employed

make good use of their expertise around the world.

www.aseu.edu.az

249

International integrity
the Islamic science university of Malaysia has enjoyed a period of
rapid Growth over the last seven years, along with a burgeoning
global reputation

The highly regarded Islamic Science University of Malaysia (USIM)

offers students a fresh perspective by bringing together religious
and scientific learning in bilingual courses. Providing high-quality
teaching based on the values of respect, tolerance and integrity,
the relatively young institution, located just outside Kuala Lumpur, is
particularly renowned for its medical and finance programmes, but
has earned recognition across its full range of educational offerings.
Malaysias national academic rating system, for instance, has
given it five out of six stars on a par with the countrys more
established universities while USIM also received European
Business Assembly awards for Best Regional University and Best
Manager of the Year in the field of science education in 2013.
Bilingual programmes
Having become a fully fledged university in 2007, USIM now boasts
eight faculties, which offer more than 60 academic programmes
across the fields of science, business, Islamic studies, languages and
law. The universitys most popular courses include finance, Islamic
banking, medicine, dentistry and halal food biotechnology, and its
programmes are taught in English and Arabic to encourage fluency
in both languages.
In Islam, there are two kinds of knowledge, says USIMs
Vice-Chancellor, Professor Dato Asma Ismail. Revealed knowledge
comes from the Quran, whereas rational knowledge, such as science
and mathematics, comes from mankind. By integrating both, we can
give our students a comprehensive understanding of todays problems
and an alternative approach to solving them.
As a result, the university which is open to people of all
faiths is growing fast. Its current student population of more
than 11,000 represents a tenfold increase over seven years,

250

We want our graduates to be effective in their

professions and make a difference to society
while most of USIMs 1,100 postgraduates are international students
from one of 36 countries around the world.
The universitys main campus, located not far from Kuala Lumpur
International Airport, has beautiful sprawling grounds with ample
space for further expansion. A second campus, in the centre of
Malaysias capital, currently houses USIMs medical and dental faculty
and has use of a government hospital. There are plans, however, to
move the faculty to the main campus in the near future, following
the construction of a health hub and teaching hospital.
In-demand graduates
In keeping with its philosophy, the university aims to give its students
the professional skills they need to compete in a global employment
market, coupled with a strong social conscience. As a result, the
universitys graduates are in great demand.
Our medical and dental graduates, for instance, are highly
sought after not only for their professional expertise, but also for
their ability to advise patients on medical issues relating to Islamic
law, explains Professor Ismail. Similarly, monetary gain is not the
only focus of our finance and banking programmes. Ethics play an
important role in them because we want our graduates to be both
effective in their professions and willing to contribute and make a
difference to society. In other words, we strive to put strong values
into everything we do.
Professor Ismail intends to further develop the universitys
reputation with a view to becoming a world leader in Islamic science
teaching and research. It is not enough to be relevant locally or
nationally we have to be relevant globally as well, she says. If you
dont dream, you dont achieve, and I hope that one day we will
have a Muslim Nobel laureate coming from USIM.

www.usim.edu.my

251

Growing gains
Khon Kaen University in Thailand has flourished over the
past half a century with its mix of cutting-edge research,
facilities and international programmes

Celebrating its 50th anniversary throughout 2014,

Khon Kaen University (KKU) has grown in size and
stature to become the largest education centre in
northeast Thailand. Boasting state-of the-art facilities,
beautiful grounds and a huge selection of courses, it
is no wonder there are now around 40,000 students
studying at the Thai university.
KKU sits on a hill overlooking the industrial city
of Khon Kaen, and has an impressive campus and
facilities. Spread over 900 hectares, this includes
a huge agricultural research centre, software park,
sciences and technology park, 25 research centres
of excellence and four hospitals.
Our campus is like the central park and lung
of Khon Kaen city, says Professor Dr Kittichai
Triratanasirichai, the universitys President. Parts of
it are even being opened up to the public to enable
them to take advantage of the facilities.
Research-based learning
KKU consists of 26 faculties and colleges, which
offer a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate and
postgraduate courses, including 43 international
programmes taught in English. The universitys focus
is on research-based teaching and learning, which
is split into four main groups: science and technology;
health science; agriculture and functional food; and
humanities and social sciences. Research subjects
undertaken at KKUs different centres have included:
holistic river basin management and biodiversity of the
Mekong River basin; Thai herbal and health products;
and public health and tropical medicine.
The university encourages students to think and
work for themselves to prepare for industry, including
conducting their own experiments in the science

252

Our campus is like the citys central park. Parts are even open
to the public to enable them to take advantage of the facilities
laboratories and using KKUs e-learning resources to solve problems. They can also
work with major software companies in the universitys E-Sarn software park, which
is fast becoming what KKU describes as an information technology metropolis.
All students are required to attain a high standard of IT skills, and all undergraduates
perform two- to four-month internships at businesses relevant to their field.
A great deal of the research undertaken at KKU meets the needs of industry.
We work closely with major food company Betagro on research and development,
says Professor Triratanasirichai. In addition, our faculty of engineering works
closely with the sugar cane industry, and the beauty-treatment industry is heavily
involved in our local herb research.
Student success
The universitys list of student achievements is impressive. For example, in November
2012, two students won the 2012 e-ICON (e-learning International Contest of
Outstanding New Ages) World Contest, held in Korea. They took the prize for their
work on a mobile app called Idea Plus a social media site that allows people to set
up projects together. Then there is the group of KKU nursing students that won the
12th Thailand Innovation Project Award for their research into developing innovative
kits to slow down the rate of dementia among the elderly.
Academia aside, the university also places great importance on extracurricular
activities, offering a variety of sports from basketball to aerobics arts and
cultural activities, and community projects. KKU even hosted the Thailand National
Inter-varsity Debate Championship between universities and high schools in 2012
the first time the event took place outside Bangkok.
KKU staff and students also do a lot of work to help with community concerns
in Thailand, such as designing small water reservoirs for rural areas, especially in
the northeast of Thailand, to help with agricultural productivity.
Looking ahead, to boost local employment and encourage entrepreneurs on
campus, the Thai government has given $100 million to KKU to expand and improve
its Northeastern Sciences and Technology Park. Its a significant investment that will
make the park a hub for students and industry experts alike an appropriate prospect
for a university that is celebrating half a century of educational achievement.

www.kku.ac.th/eng

253

A positive outlook
Kokshe Academys driven attitude and high standards
are making a real difference to Kazakhstans academic,
economic and social prospects

254

Oxbridge in the Kazakh Steppe: thats the dream of all at Kokshe Academy.
Staff and students alike are working hard to create the most progressive

It is always more difficult to plant a tree and nurture it than

to look after a long-established orchard

teaching, research and academic institution in Kazakhstan in the beautiful city

of Kokshetau in the north of the country. As the academys Vice-Rector for

To this end, the academys emphasis on ecological issues it offers both

International Relations, Diana Ismailova, explains: When I visited Cambridge

a bachelors and a masters degree in Ecology, and programmes in the study of

and Oxford, I realised that top-flight higher education institutes dont have

alternative energy sources is crucial for the countrys development. Kazakhstan is

to be situated in capital cities. So I thought: Why cant Kokshe Academy be

actively encouraging its population, particularly institutions and businesses, to take

the leading academy in Kazakhstan?

practical steps in this direction. The governments Green Bridge programme, for

Unlike many modern educational establishments, Kokshe Academy operates

instance, has been specifically designed to drive sustainable development. And in

on the small-is-beautiful principle. Around 3,200 registered undergraduate and

2017, the countrys capital, Astana, will play host to EXPO 2017, the theme of which

postgraduate students are in attendance a figure that includes those in day

is Future Energy. The conference will be the biggest international event that

classes, evening classes or on correspondence courses. The academy offers

Kazakhstan has hosted, and Kokshe Academy is well placed to play a vital role.

programmes in practical subjects in particular pedagogy and psychology, civil

defence, ecological issues, economics, accounting, design and technology,

Multilingual approach

jurisprudence, education, tourism and physical education.

Another forward-looking policy being actively pursued by the countrys leadership,

and which Kokshe Academys approach reinforces, is the plan to make trilingualism

A new endeavour

the norm in Kazakhstan. The aim is to have as many citizens as possible speaking

As with many organisations and institutions in the former Soviet Union, Kokshe

Kazakh, Russian and English. Kokshe Academy already teaches in Kazakh and

Academy is relatively new. Founded in 1993, it came into being just as Kazakhstan

Russian, and visiting academics from abroad usually deliver their lectures in English.

was coming to terms with its newfound independence an undertaking that

These overseas lecturers are visiting in ever-increasing numbers. Kokshe Academy

brought with it its own challenges, as the rector, Professor Zhanat Kassym,

has already signed agreements with higher education establishments in 32 countries

recognises. It is always more difficult to plant a tree and nurture it than to look

throughout Europe, the Far East and Central Asia. It is also a member of the Bologna

after a long-established orchard, he says.

Process, which is designed to encourage international cooperation and academic

The key to Kokshe Academys impressive progress can be summed up in one

exchange, and ensure consistency in the standards of higher education qualifications.

word: innovation. The academy has already established a reputation both at home

The academys link with the Archaeology Department of Exeter University, for

and abroad for its creative attitude towards teaching and research. Its an approach

instance, led to a breakthrough discovery about the first tamed horses in human

that sits well with Kazakhstans plans for development. In December 2012, President

history coming from the region of Kokshetau.

Nursultan Nazarbayev published the Kazakhstan 2050 Strategy, a bold initiative that

The approach to education at Kokshe Academy not only meets the needs

aims to make Kazakhstan one of the worlds 30 most developed countries by the

of modern Kazakhstan, but also challenges its students to adhere to the highest

middle of this century. Through its courses and research projects, Kokshe Academy

international standards. As Professor Zhanat Kassym puts it: Kokshe Academy is not

aims to play a key part in making this a reality.

simply an institute which is looking to the future; it is an institute of the future.

www.koksheacademy.kz

255

Top of the class

By employing more PhD holders than any other university in
Ecuador, La Universidad San Francisco de Quito offers superb
research opportunities and rich natural resources

More than a decade ago, La Universidad San

Francisco de Quito (USFQ) in Ecuador began
an annual series of lectures open to the general
public on topics as diverse as evolution, physics,
religion, philosophy and literature. The first of these
Millennium Lectures was given by Professor Santiago
Gangotena, Founder and President of the university,
who had to repeat his lecture four times that day
so inundated was the university with people wanting
to attend.
We had only anticipated 400 coming to the
lectures, explains Jorge Gmez Tejada, Director for
Institutional Development. But people were standing
in line for three hours waiting to hear him, and the
same happened to our other lecturers, too. It is a
measure of the hunger for learning in this country
that has not yet been satisfied.
It is this hunger for learning that led Professor
Gangotena to set up the university in 1988. At the
time, there was a lack of good privately funded
education that would follow an international model,
explains Jorge. A quarter of a century later, the
university has such a reputation for academic
excellence that people want to hear our scholars
speak, even if it means standing in line for hours.
Research partnerships
The range of topics discussed at the lectures follows
the major fields of research at the university, which

256

are often conducted in partnership with world-class

institutions. Notable research centres include a
campus in the Galpagos Islands, built in collaboration

Ecuador is one of most biodiverse countries

in the world, which gives us the strength
to lead studies in life sciences

with the University of North Carolina, to conduct

research into the conservation and sustainable

in the country, says Jorge. The university lays

development of the islands. There, the university

claim to the highest number of PhDs in Ecuador,

is developing a drone for the surveillance of the

a number set to increase over coming years, and

Galpagos Islands together with Embry-Riddle,

it has agreements with more than 200 universities

an aeronautical university in the USA.

worldwide; not just for exchange students, but also

We have a real problem with illicit fishing,

for faculty exchange and research collaboration.

and this scheme will help us monitor the situation,

It awards Einstein and Maxwell Scholarships to

says Jorge. Regular drones can easily handle the

physics students in high schools, and runs a diversity

constantly varying conditions in the Galpagos and

programme that awards scholarships to students

carry out essential surveillance. The university also

from indigenous communities, which means that

has a research station in the Amazon rainforest,

at any one time there are around 250 indigenous

built in partnership with Boston University. This has

students at the university.

proved to be extremely important to date, more

USFQ began with a modest 120 students and

than 2,000 new species have been identified by

20 professors; it now caters for around 6,000 students

scientists working at the station.

and has some 700 professors. Ecuador is one of the

most biodiverse countries in the world, which gives

Sector leader

us the strength to lead studies in life sciences, says

USFQ is Ecuadors first private university and ranks

Jorge. Our founder has instilled a love for this

as the first university in the country. It was founded

institution in students and staff alike.

in 1988 using the American Liberal Arts system as

It is a devotion that has paid off. USFQ graduates

a model, so electives such as art, history, sciences,

are notable for their level of professionalism, their

sports and economics are given the same weight

cosmopolitan awareness and their understanding

as a main field of study.

and appreciation of their chosen field of study.

We have had more than 13,000 graduates so

Change is visible, and it is in no small part thanks

far, many of whom are now in leading positions

to the pioneering work of Professor Gangotena.

www.usfq.edu.ec

257

Smart choice
A national leader in academic, research and sporting excellence,
North-West University serves South Africas diverse communities,
with students taught in English, Afrikaans and setswana

258

With three rural campuses, multiple research centres and world-class sports facilities,
North-West University (NWU) is one of South Africas top providers of tertiary

We are ranked among the top three universities for teaching and
learning, the top six for research and the top four for sport

education. Renowned for its applied science, health and business degrees, it is the
countrys only multilingual university, teaching in English, Afrikaans and Setswana,

In a country famed for its sporting achievements, it is not surprising that NWU

and offers an impressive choice of courses at 15 faculties and more than 50 schools.

rates sport highly, too. The universitys Potchefstroom Campus boasts a rugby

As a result, it now has more than 60,000 students 36,000 on campus and

institute and a hockey academy, Mafikeng Campus has a soccer institute, and

26,000 following distance-learning courses making it South Africas second

several NWU sports teams including the karate, athletics and womens hockey

largest university. Nationally, we are ranked among the top three universities for

teams were the University Sports of South Africa champions in 2012.

teaching and learning, the top six for research and the top four for sport, says

The universitys world-class facilities include the High Performance Institute

Vice-Chancellor Dr Theuns Eloff.

of Sport one of the best-equipped gyms in Africa, which attracts elite athletes
from around the world. NWU also has a four-star sports village, which hosted the

Employment prospects

Spanish football team when it won the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Englands rugby

Many of the courses delivered on NWUs three sites Potchefstroom Campus and

team and several British county cricket teams have also stayed in the village.

Mafikeng Campus in the North West Province, and Vaal Triangle Campus in Gauteng
focus on areas where South Africa has a skills shortage. This enables the university

Student diversity

to not only contribute to the countrys economic growth, but also ensure that its

NWU also works hard to represent the diverse communities it serves. It has an

graduates have better employment prospects than those of other institutions.

independently chaired human rights committee, and actively reaches out to different

It is, for example, the only South African university to offer a BSc in Animal

language groups through its multilingual approach. Were recognised as one of the

Health, graduates of which are in great demand in the rural farming economy.

best-run universities in South Africa and have won a PricewaterhouseCoopers Award

And in response to a critical skills deficit in logistics, NWU created its flagship

for excellence in governance for five years in a row, says Dr Eloff. These accolades

Department of Transport, Economics and Logistics Management. It is also the

are also reward for NWUs decentralised attitude to education, which includes having

only South African university to offer a masters degree in Nuclear Engineering,

a rector and management team in situ on each campus.

while its School of Pharmacy is the biggest in the country, producing around

Looking to the future, NWU aims to raise its international profile still further and

40 per cent of South Africas pharmacists.

maintain its high academic, research and sporting standards, while embracing the

NWU also has numerous centres of research excellence in fields such as

latest technology. South Africas National Development Plan has set the target of

nutrition, pharmacy and space research. The impressive reputation of its nutrition

increasing the countrys university population from 900,000 to 1.6 million by 2030,

research centre was confirmed recently when it won a 1.5 million rand (90,000)

says Dr Eloff. In response, we are investing in online and interactive technology

contract with UNICEF to help companies comply with international codes for

to run even more quality courses off-campus, while offering the best possible

marketing breast-milk substitutes.

experience for all our students.

www.nwu.ac.za

259

Tapping talent
Boasting impressive oil industry connections and first-class
facilities, Abu Dhabis Petroleum Institute provides students
with the perfect preparation for working life

In the heart of the worlds oil industry, the Petroleum

being on a real oil rig, or our 3D computer systems

Institute (PI) offers an excellent education for those

for the interactive visualisation of reservoirs. To propel

seeking to enter the perennially booming energy

research within the Emirates oil and gas industry, the PI

sector. Established in 2000 and based in the UAEs

founded the Abu Dhabi Petroleum Institute Research

capital of Abu Dhabi, the university has more than

Center in 2006 and the Gas Research Center in 2010,

1,300 students, 34 per cent of whom are female.

both of which are dedicated to addressing current and

They are instructed by over 200 faculty members,

future challenges in the gas industry.

resulting in an impressive student-to-teacher ratio

Sponsored by the Abu Dhabi National Oil

that brings out the best in each student.

Company (ADNOC), as well as global oil giants Shell,

Five of the PIs undergraduate programmes

BP, Total and Japan Oil Development, the PI also

chemical engineering, electrical engineering,

offers its students and graduates a foot in the door

mechanical engineering, petroleum engineering

at some of the worlds leading oil and gas companies.

and petroleum geosciences are accredited by the

Indeed, the universitys affiliation with ADNOC

Accredited Board for Engineering and Technology

delivers immeasurable opportunities to its students.

(ABET) in the USA.

For instance, Emirati students have their educational

expenses paid by the company, and are guaranteed

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Simulated oil well

employment on completion of their degree.

One of the reasons the PIs courses are highly

The transition from university to workplace is

regarded is the fact that it boasts cutting-edge

usually smooth because ADNOC provides excellent

facilities, laboratories and equipment. These include

in-house training to bring students and graduates up

ultra-modern resources, such as a life-sized simulated

to the required professional level, explains Dr Tag.

oil well, studio physics labs, a stratigraphy and

And since our courses are geared towards the

palaeontology lab, and many more, which are

industry, students will already have completed

all located on the universitys campus in the Sas

internships before they start work.

Al Nakhl area of Dubai.

In fact, internships are an integral part of the

The PI is a very exciting place to study, says Dr

PIs curriculum. They take place over a summer at

Ismail Tag, Acting President and Provost. Our students

a variety of global companies, including ADNOC,

conduct research using the best equipment you can

and are very hands-on, with students managing

find today, whether its the drilling well, which is like

projects and providing on-site solutions.

Students conduct research using the best

equipment you can find today
This desire to involve students in real-world
projects is typical of the PI. Its Department of
Electrical Engineering, for instance, is developing
and building unmanned robot prototypes in
collaboration with the Colorado School of Mines.
Designed to improve workers safety, these robots
will be used for inspection and maintenance work
at toxic oil and gas sites.
Vital research
Meanwhile, researchers in the PIs Department of
Chemical Engineering are looking at how date pits
a very common waste material in the UAE can
be used to clean natural gas and industrial wastewater, and as a means of improving hydrogen
storage. This last application could ultimately prove
vital for people around the world in the future
hydrogen-powered vehicles may become much
more commonplace.
Five years from now, the PI will be the
university of choice for students aspiring to be
engineers in the UAEs energy sector, concludes
Dr Tag. The campus will be a showpiece in the
UAE, and the universitys Research Center will
become not only regionally recognised, but also
world-renowned.

www.pi.ac.ae

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Engine of growth
With a firm focus on contributing to a knowledge-based economy
and the advancement of the wider society, Qatar University has
become a leader of academic excellence

Over the last four decades, Qatar has experienced growth and
development that have transformed its society on every front.
Its rapid progress is mirrored by one of the countrys leading centres
of learning Qatar University (QU) in the capital city of Doha.
Beacon of excellence
The university has grown exponentially, becoming a beacon
of academic excellence and a leader in research. Its academic
programmes and research initiatives are designed to address the
needs of the wider community a mission that is closely linked
to Qatars aim to become a knowledge-based society.
Founded in 1973 with only one college, the university now
has more than 15,000 students and comprises seven colleges: Arts
and Sciences; Business and Economics; Education; Engineering;
Law; Pharmacy; and Sharia and Islamic studies. Its vast range of
undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes produces
professionals with skills and competences to succeed in the labour
market at home and abroad.
Since 2012, QU has expanded its efforts to promote a culture of
research, both internally and through various high-school outreach
programmes. It also recently established a dedicated research complex
and seven research centres of excellence, which are linked to its
five-year road map. Out of these will emerge interdisciplinary research
projects in four areas: energy, environment and resource sustainability;
social change and identity; population, health and wellness; and ICT.
The road map sets out strategic areas of excellence and enables
faculty, students and partner organisations to focus their efforts in
line with these priorities, explains QUs Vice President for Research,
Dr Hassan Al-Derham.
The university also puts great emphasis on collaboration
with other academic institutions and industry to produce solutions

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Our graduates continue to demonstrate the quality

and excellence that were nurtured at the university
during their years of study
that will serve the advancement of society. This has engendered
memoranda of understanding, agreements and professional chair
positions to support QUs academic and research efforts to advance
the aspirations of the wider society.
Serving the community
Like research, community service is at the heart of QUs mission
and vision. The university is committed to ensuring that its campus
is an enriching environment that fosters academic excellence,
volunteerism, civic responsibility and leadership. The institutions
focus on community service is illustrated by initiatives such as
professional development programmes for community members;
consultancy services for the government, business and industry
sectors; provision of library resources and facilities; alumni
engagement with the community; and charitable and communityawareness activities organised by students.
The combination of academic excellence, research leadership
and dedicated community service underlines QUs efforts to produce
graduates who are well equipped to contribute fully to the everchanging labour market and community life. As a result, its graduates
are highly sought after by employers across the public and private
sectors. The university regularly surveys employers, who, in turn, provide
both informal and official feedback. Thanks to this ongoing dialogue,
QU graduates have a thorough understanding of the local industry
and are therefore often chosen over graduates from other universities.
A recent survey showed that 92 per cent of QU alumni would
recommend the university to family and friends. Our graduates have
continued to demonstrate the personal and professional quality and
excellence that were nurtured at the university during their years of
study, and we are proud of their success, concludes QU President
Professor Sheikha Abdulla Al-Misnad.

www.qu.edu.qa

263

Impressive results
A national leader of research and education in Thailand,
Suranaree University of Technology has grown to become
a key member of the global science community

Suranaree University of Technology (SUT) in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, was

founded in 1990 as the countrys first public, autonomous university. This means

Making international connections has been one of

our key areas of success since our inception

that, unlike those institutions run by Thailands civil service, it is empowered

to govern its own overall administration, receiving regular budget allocations

enhancement of crop yield for cassava. And, thanks to the fact

from the government.

that SUT has its own science park, it is well placed to make the

Around 13,000 students attend the university, which is organised around

most of these and other scientific and technological breakthroughs.

six academic institutes specialising in science, engineering, medicine, nursing,

agricultural technology and social technology, respectively. Courses are

Global outlook

normally taught in Thai, says Assistant Professor Dr Siwatt Thaiudom, Director

In addition to its focus on research, an international outlook has

of the universitys Centre for International Affairs. But classes with many

always been key to the universitys success. The vision of the

overseas students are often delivered in English.

university is to create knowledge and to provide a moral ethos

SUT was also the first university in Thailand to establish its very own work-

for the development of a happy and sustainable society, says

orientated learning programme. Under the title of Cooperative Education, this

Dr Thaiudom. In todays interconnected world, this can only be

gives students the opportunity to gain practical experience in the workplace

done in an international context, learning and contributing through

during their time at the university.

a series of mutually beneficial interactions.

National leader

of success since our inception, adds SUT Rector, Professor Dr Prasart

In 2009, SUT was ranked first among public universities in Thailand and second

Suebka. And we will continue to push forward with internationalisation.

in the country overall, and its schools of physics and chemistry have both been

To this end, the university has forged numerous global

individually recognised as outstanding in national reviews. Thanks to its glowing

partnerships. In 2013, an appraisal found that SUT had undertaken

reputation for education and research, SUT was granted National Research

joint projects with more than 70 different institutions in some

University status in 2010.

20 countries. These include collaborations with the University of

These institutions are the focus for government-funded projects that genuinely

California in the USA, the University of Tbingen in Germany, Tokyo

benefit Thailands development in areas related to industry and agriculture, says

University of Agriculture and Technology and Tohoku University

Dr Thaiudom. The resulting investment has helped to enhance the valuable research

in Japan, and POSTECH in Korea. The university also plays an

that SUT produces. It works well with the universitys target-based research approach,

important role in a number of international academic associations.

in which research projects are grouped into key areas, he adds. These include

Although still a relatively young university, SUT is breaking new

advanced materials, fundamental and theoretical sciences, advanced alternative

ground in Thailand and has already made important contributions

energy development and agro-technology.

to the international science and technology community. Its a track

The universitys research efforts are producing exciting results. Researchers

record that the autonomous organisation is committed to enhancing

at SUT have contributed to advances in cloning and stem-cell technology, the

yet further through its high-quality teaching, excellence in research

development of an ethanol fuel generator and a biomass power plant, and the

and key international partnerships.

Making international connections has been one of our key areas

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http://web.sut.ac.th/sutnew/sut_en

265

Spirit of endeavour
Tecnolgico de Monterrey in Mexico has a three-point
approach to education that produces entrepreneurial
and internationally minded individuals

Students looking for a global experience are attracted to high-quality institutions

Today, Tecnolgico de Monterreys 100,000 students

that boast a progressive outlook. Tecnolgico de Monterrey in Mexico understands

15,000 of whom are based in Monterrey, with the rest spread

this and therefore blends traditions of excellence and entrepreneurship with

across 30 additional campuses throughout Mexico and at sites

a forward-thinking, international approach thats relevant for the 21st century.

overseas have use of an astounding 106 business incubators.

The institution is ranked as the top private university in Mexico and came

Serving around 2,500 businesses a year, some 800 of which go on

seventh overall in the 2013 QS Latin American university rankings. Its graduates

to become operating companies, these include technology-based

do exceptionally well in the job market, too, being rated first in the country for

incubators and traditional incubators. The latter support people

employability. These successes are, in no small part, down to Tecnolgico de

who are economically disadvantaged, with student entrepreneurs

Monterreys three-pillar vision for education. We have always moved forward,

becoming their mentors, explains Arturo. In addition, Tecnolgico

says Joaqun Guerra Achem, Associate Vice President Internationalization.

de Monterreys business accelerators provide mentoring and

We want to educate entrepreneurial leaders who are internationally competitive

coaching to help existing businesses grow.

and who also have a high regard for human, ethical citizenship. These are the
three components of our vision.

Making a difference
In autumn 2013, the university pushed its entrepreneurial remit further

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Entrepreneurial DNA

still. Previously, we taught entrepreneurship as a class in its own right,

Tecnolgico de Monterrey has been built on solid foundations. Established by

says Arturo. Now, were weaving an entrepreneurial spirit into our

local businessmen in 1943 as a private, not-for-profit university, it originally aimed

classes across the curriculum.

to produce highly skilled, technical professionals for the newly created industry

Central to this is the idea of ethical purpose. Students are

in the region. Our DNA is entrepreneurial, says Joaqun. We were founded by

expected to seek creative solutions to global problems by developing

entrepreneurs and have always nurtured entrepreneurship.

business ideas that will not only benefit themselves, but also make

By 1985, the university had gone even further, making it mandatory for all

a positive difference to the wider community.

students to take an entrepreneurship course, regardless of their major. Some 17

Our students make a real difference, says Arturo. For example,

years later it introduced an additional optional certificate in entrepreneurship

some of our students went to a local old peoples home and found

and a major in the subject.

that the residents wanted a bus and ramps so they could move

Around the same time we decided that simply teaching entrepreneurship

around the city, and visit museums and parks. The students

wasnt enough, says Arturo Torres, Associate Vice President Entrepreneurship.

established a board of patrons from the business community and

Tecnolgico de Monterrey therefore opened a pilot business incubator where

raised money. They also started selling things that the old people

students could develop business ideas with help from a mentor and, on occasion,

made. As a result, the home became economically self-sustaining

specialist consultants. The students liked the process, Arturo continues, so we

and the system was changed forever.

started to put business incubators on each campus and open them up to alumni

Another enterprising team of students set up a company that

and community members, too.

brings telephone services to rural communities in areas where

We have a presence throughout the world via link offices

in the USA, Canada, Europe, Asia and Latin America

267

268

people previously had to travel great distances to

to study English and are also encouraged to take

buy credit for their mobile phones. These guys

additional language courses. And both international

developed technology that looks like a telephone

and domestic students can also take programmes

booth, Arturo says. You put coins in it, and that

taught entirely in English.

rings credit through to your mobile. There are now

thousands of these booths all over Mexico.

Confident leaders
Tecnolgico de Monterreys three-pronged approach

International vision

has helped to make it the forward-thinking institution it

Tecnolgico de Monterreys focus on entrepreneurship

is today. Students learn to think creatively, analytically

is complemented by its international vision. We have

and innovatively, developing a global vision with high

a presence throughout the world via link offices in

ethical standards. They also work collaboratively in

the USA, Canada, Europe, Asia and Latin America,

teams. We understand the competences our students

explains Joaqun. In fact, in addition to its network

need for tomorrows world, says Joaqun. When our

of campuses across Mexico, the institution has 480

students start their professional career, they are leaders

agreements with universities in around 50 countries.

who arent afraid to get stuck in.

This means that students from across the world can

To maintain this high standard, Tecnolgico de

take its courses online and also travel to Mexico to

Monterrey has set itself challenging but crucial aims

attend courses or complete internships if they wish.

that its new educational model, Tec 21, will help it to

Meanwhile, an impressive 43 per cent of the

achieve. Generally, todays students are digital natives

universitys Mexico-based students currently gain

who are taught by professors from the 20th century

international experience. Its a figure that the ambitious

via an educational model that was created centuries

institution hopes to increase to 75 per cent by 2016.

ago, adds Joaqun. Tecnolgico de Monterrey turns

We encourage our students to take advantage of

this around by offering a learning model that puts

global opportunities, says Joaqun, stressing that

technology in the classrooms, places great emphasis

students gain credits that count towards their

on problem-based and project-based learning, and

qualification as they do so. Sometimes, our students

develops a structure where students and teachers

travel overseas to learn with a professor in another

work together.

country, and sometimes our teaching staff travel with

In this way, weve established ourselves as a truly

them and teach in that environment. The experience

21st-century institution, says Joaqun. Indeed, while

is not just academic; its about experiencing a new

many universities seek a global audience, by offering

environment, mixing with local people, learning about

a quality education backed up by international,

the culture and coping with the language barriers.

entrepreneurial vision and a forward-thinking approach,

Languages are key to internationalisation, which is

Tecnolgico de Monterrey stands head and shoulders

why Tecnolgico de Monterrey students are required

above the crowd.

www.itesm.edu

269

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A mission to teach
The Universidad Adventista de Chile combines Christian values,
such as service in the community, with academic achievement
and strong international ties

The Universidad Adventista de Chile (UnACh) is widely recognised as one of the

best professional-training universities in Chile. In 2013, it was placed second in
the national ranking of professional-training universities compiled by UNIVERSITAS,

The university promotes the development of soft skills, such

as teamwork, initiative, a can-do attitude and an inclination
towards serving the needs of the community

a group of advanced studies in higher education.

Based near the city of Chillan, midway up the long Latin American country,

in Religious Education. Further cooperation agreements with institutions from

the universitys origins date back to 1906, when the Seventh Day Adventist Church

the global network of Adventist universities have allowed UnACh to widen its

founded an educational institution whose purpose was to prepare ministers and

international ties with universities in Central America, the Caribbean and the

primary school teachers to serve the local community of believers. UnACh still

Asia-Pacific region.

performs this function through its theology programme and training courses;

The university also welcomes visiting professors from the music faculty at

however, today its reach extends further to include the study of education, social

La Sierra University in California, which has developed a series of programmes for

sciences, health sciences, engineering, business and music.

both students and lecturers. In January 2012, UnAChs chamber choir was invited
to record the Adventist composition Pilares de la Fe (or Pillars of Faith) in Spanish

Serving community needs

at the studios of channel 3ABN in the USA. It gave international recognition to

Open to students from all backgrounds, UnAChs courses all have a strong slant

the vocal and interpretive quality of the group, says Dr Gonzalez.

towards Christian values and teachings. The university also maintains an annual
programme of events, coordinated and promoted by the Student Affairs Department

Expansion plans

and the university chaplain, which focus on, and respond to, the social, spiritual and

UnACh is currently home to over 1,500 students who work in the universitys

environmental needs of the community. There is a very high student participation

20 undergraduate programmes, and around 150 postgraduate students who

rate in these events, despite the fact that they are voluntary, explains Dr Ricardo

attend the universitys three masters courses. However, it has big plans for further

Gonzalez, President of UnACh. This is just one way in which the university promotes

expansion, particularly in the area of health. This was heralded by the opening of a

the development of soft skills, such as teamwork, initiative, a can-do attitude and

dentistry department in 2015, and a bachelors degree in nursing has also recently

an inclination towards serving the needs of the community.

joined the universitys list of accredited courses. In addition, the expansion of its

UnACh is part of a network of 112 Adventist universities worldwide, and

academic offering has led to imminent plans for the construction of new halls

in recent years has sought to strengthen its relationships with a diverse set of

of residence for the growing student body.

educational institutions within this network. Its longest-running partnership is with

There is a common thread running through all our programmes, which

Andrews University in the USA, which collaborates with the Chilean university on

emphasises the personal responsibility each person has for the people around

its masters in Science in Administration. More recent alliances include student

them and for their environment, from a Christian perspective, Dr Gonzalez

and faculty exchanges with the Universidad de Montemorelos in Mexico,

says. The university develops an inclination towards service in its students, in

FADMINAS (Faculdade Adventista de Minas Gerais) in Brazil and a partnership

particular, community service, in accordance with our mission: In the service

with the Adventist International Institute of Advanced Studies on a masters

of God and humanity.

www.unach.cl

271

Leading edge
Universidad de la Integracin de las Amricas in Paraguay is
broadening its ambitions and investing in the latest technology
to help nurture the nations future leaders

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Universidad de la Integracin de las Amricas (UNIDA) is not only

one of the few international universities in Paraguay, but also one of

We want to train men and women who believe they have a
mission in the country and the wider world

South Americas leading research-based institutions. Its defining aim

is to nurture well-rounded professionals with the expertise and social

international links that allow graduates to study abroad, UNIDA boasts an

awareness to make a positive contribution to Paraguayan society.

acclaimed postgraduate medical school of its own, with some 400 students.

The sleek, modern campus in the capital city of Asuncin was

founded in 2003 and is home to over 4,000 students. Comprising

Agents of change

faculties of health, engineering, law and management, UNIDA

Phases two and three of the Master Plan will see UNIDA continue to enhance its

has attracted national and international acclaim for its academic

computer facilities, working in tandem with its strategic partners IBM and Microsoft

excellence. However, as the universitys Rector Leila Rachid Lichi

to establish the most advanced computer science centre in Paraguay. Students at

explains: This is not meant to be a professional factory. No company

UNIDA are considered to be agents of change. As such, UNIDAs forward-thinking

wants graduates who are more of the same. We want to train men

educational model, state-of-the-art technology and international business alliances

and women who believe they have a mission in the country and

are vital to its efforts to equip its students for the fast-changing demands that are

the wider world.

placed on todays professionals.

In tandem with its nationwide educational advances, UNIDA is forging links with

The Master Plan

prominent universities in the Americas and across Europe, encouraging the cross-

Around two thirds of Paraguays population is under 30, which

pollination of ideas between visiting students and teachers. Its international trade and

means that there is intense competition for the best jobs within the

marketing course, for example, takes in students from the University of Sonora in

countrys thriving economy. To maximise its graduates prospects,

Mexico. UNIDA has also been chosen to host the International Executive MBA course

UNIDA is undergoing an ambitious expansion programme called the

of the University of Montreal, Canada.

Master Plan, which has been developed with expert academic advice

This dynamic approach to broadening educational borders led to UNIDA being

from Canada, the USA and leading South American institutions.

named the World Trade Organizations South American headquarters for its training

Initially, 20 new regional faculties are being established in Paraguay

programme in 2014. The resulting academic exchanges, full scholarship programme,

focusing on business, law and computer science.

and national and overseas internships will only serve as further incentives for the

The first of these to open was in the regional department

brightest graduates hoping to gain international experience.

of Canindey, where students are taking business administration,

In our classrooms and research laboratories, we are helping students to

international business and accounting. We are seizing the initiative

find the meaning behind their chosen career, and to be committed to using their

with this innovative academic model and infrastructure to attract

knowledge for the benefit of others, says Leila. With significant investment in

top-level students, says Leila. The course structure at the new

technology and people, and international and national partnerships, UNIDA is

satellite faculties will allow students to pursue graduate studies

providing its graduates with the tools to take on key roles in the development

in Brazil, or further afield in Europe. As well as establishing

and enrichment of Paraguay.

www.unida.edu.py

273

Peak performance
Situated at the base of the cordillera mountain range in
Ecuador, the Universidad Tcnica Particular de Loja boasts a
wealth of ecological riches and a growing global outlook

The Universidad Tcnica Particular de Loja (UTPL) is

special. True, it has a head start on most universities,
thanks to its stunning location at the foot of the
Cordillera mountains in southern Ecuador, but its also
an institution with a unique ethos. Based on Christian
humanist values, a desire to nurture and protect
permeates every aspect of teaching and learning.
Founded in 1971, the UTPL has around 40,000
students, although only 5,000 of these are based at
the 44-acre Loja campus. Some 23 undergraduate
programmes are offered on site in subjects including
natural and biological sciences, engineering, business
studies and the humanities. In addition to these
degrees, a further 19 undergraduate courses, as well
as several postgraduate programmes, are available by
distance learning to students from other parts of Latin
American, the USA and Europe. To this end, the UTPL
has regional centres in 19 of Ecuadors 23 provinces and
at international sites in Madrid, Rome and New York.
International ambition
Certain courses, such as tourism, are taught entirely in
English. And our curriculum is going to become even
more international in the near future, says Eduardo
Eguiguren Luzuriaga, the universitys Director of
Innovation. We aim to be teaching at least two core
subjects in the students final semester completely
in English within the next two years.
The UTPL also has a distinctive approach to
education, which has emerged from the needs and
demands of local industry. Our founding aim was

274

We have always been strongly geared towards serving society. The focus of the
university is to provide high-class teaching and professional development
to satisfy development needs in the southern region

form collaborative partnerships with other universities

of Ecuador, so we have always been strongly geared

especially those that view us as a potentially strong

towards serving society, Eduardo explains. The focus

institute with whom they can do pertinent, high-impact

of the university is to provide high-class teaching and

research, says Eduardo.

professional development.
Today, this sees the university working closely

Regional biodiversity

with innovative local businesses to create on-site

Theres also that amazing location, of course. Based in

entrepreneurial centres. We proposed a model whereby

an urban centre with around 200,000 inhabitants, the

small businesses provide at a very low cost services

UTPL sits at the foot of the Cordillera mountain range,

that help our student entrepreneurs start up their own

just an hours drive from the Amazon. Its also close

businesses, says Eduardo. Participant businesses offer

to the Podocarpus-El Condor Biosphere Reserve

everything from desk space to computers, use of call

one of the worlds greatest biodiversity hot spots,

centres, and advice in accounting, financial, technical

dedicated to protecting and promoting the sustainable

and business matters. In return, entrepreneurs

development of 2.6 million acres of tropical forests.

encourage their mentors to incorporate new ideas

The reserve is home to some 600 bird species, rare

into their businesses, embracing technological,

mountain tapirs and spectacled bears. And the UTPLs

agricultural and manufacturing developments.

extracurricular activity programmes make good use

This collaboration helps both emerging and

of this location, with students benefiting from cultural

established businesses adapt to regional changes.

and environmental projects, an international institute

For example, we are currently working to solve

for peace and a UNESCO observatory for academic

environmental conflicts caused by the gold- and

and scientific mobility.

copper-mining activity in the Amazon region, adds

Perhaps because of this awe-inspiring geography,

Eduardo. This is an important opportunity for the

fauna and wildlife, Loja has historically protected its

UTPL to establish a chain of sustainable services.

people and surroundings. The Cordillera mountain

The university has, in this way, managed to convert

range is an ever-present reminder to preserve our

potential weaknesses into opportunities and strengths.

environment, says Eduardo. Our natural surroundings

The Ranking Web of Universities consequently places

reflect an unmatched beauty something we consider

the institution fifth in Ecuador. This motivates us to

emblematic of our university.

www.utpl.edu.ec

275

Centre of attention
An increased emphasis on international partnerships and
progress is earning Brazils Universidade Federal de Lavras
a good deal of global recognition

276

As the eyes of the world turn towards Brazil the host nation of the 2014 FIFA

In particular, a strong link has been established with the UKs Lancaster University

World Cup and the Olympic Games two years later it is important to bear in

through the development of a dual PhD programme, whereby students from each

mind that the countrys rapid progress goes far beyond its achievements in the

university undertake a significant portion of their studies at the other. Similar ties

sporting arena. Brazil is making great strides in education, and Universidade

are currently being established with the universities of Illinois, Delaware and North

Federal de Lavras (UFLA) in southern Minas Gerais State embodies its spirit

Carolina in the USA, and with the University of Alberta in Canada and Katholieke

of energy, development and change in two principal respects: diversification

Universiteit Leuven in Belgium.

and internationalisation.

Growing numbers of part-time students also enrich the increasingly

cosmopolitan climate of the UFLA campus. Students arrive from numerous

Agricultural expertise

countries in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Australasia. Correspondingly, UFLA

UFLA originated as an agricultural college and went on to establish itself as a

students also study abroad. The university participates, for instance, in Science

trailblazer in wider aspects of agrarian and veterinary sciences, and cutting-edge

without Borders, a Brazilian Federal Government scholarship programme that

research. In recent years, the university has become pre-eminent in disciplines

sends Brazilian students to top universities around the world.

such as geoprocessing, plant physiology, biotechnology and plant nutrition.

Internationalisation of this kind means that English is becoming a second

Currently standing second in the rankings of Brazils universities, as assessed by

language at UFLA. Accordingly, the university offers courses in English to its

the National Institute for Educational Studies and Research, UFLA is rapidly gaining

Portuguese-speaking students, as well courses in Portuguese for speakers of other

worldwide renown for excellence in specialised fields of agriculture and forestry.

languages. A few courses, such as Remote Sensing, are even taught in English.

And our global standing is soaring in other areas of scientific endeavour,

says Dr Jos Roberto Scolforo, the universitys Rector. For example, new courses
are being established in Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Material

We are forming a host of exciting new partnerships with

universities in the English-speaking world

Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Medicine. Additionally, postgraduate

courses are being offered in subjects ranging from Environmental Technology

International standards

to Physics and Education.

The universitys myriad facilities also reflect international standards. New lecture

UFLA caters for a thriving student community of around 11,000, some 2,000

theatres, classrooms and research laboratories are being built on the universitys

of whom are postgraduates. Its campus is also home to a technological park

campus as part of an ongoing development programme. And in another such

where domestic and international companies are involved in environmental

scheme, apartments and accommodation are under construction to house

and agribusiness projects, such as developing nanotechnology and animal and

international students and visiting professors. However, the universitys management

vegetable biotechnologies.

is also aware that life beyond the campus walls is integral to the student experience

Along with all this diversification, a burgeoning internationalisation is taking

at UFLA, and that the university has a part to play in the internationalisation of the

place. For many years, UFLA has attracted overseas students on full-time courses,

city of Lavras. To this end, for instance, English courses are offered free of charge

the majority of them from elsewhere in Latin America and from the Portuguese-

to local taxi drivers, hotel staff and anybody else who wishes to learn the language.

speaking countries of Africa, such as Angola and Mozambique, Dr Scolforo

More generally, Lavras is a genial place to live and study, as international

explains. Now we are forming a host of exciting new partnerships with universities

students soon discover. Indeed, just as Brazil is gaining plenty of international

in the English-speaking world, too.

attention, so too is UFLA flourishing under the international spotlight.

www.ufla.br

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A hands-on education
Universidade Tiradentes in Brazil offers students invaluable practical
experience through its acclaimed network of specialist services for
the local community

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Brazils Universidade Tiradentes (UNIT) sits at the heart of the city of Aracaju
in more ways than one. The capital of Sergipe, the countrys smallest state,

We are working hard to broaden our horizons and

extend our international reach

this friendly city of more than 500,000 people is a jewel of Brazils north-east
region: an area of unspoilt, palm-lined beaches, year-round balmy temperatures,

Notable masters programmes in Health and Environment, Human

vibrant culture and superb seafood. And the university, named after a prominent

Rights Law, and Education; and doctorates in Process Engineering

18th-century revolutionary who sought an independent Brazil, has grown from

and Biotechnologies, have made UNIT a university of renown for

small beginnings to become an integral part of its surroundings. It now comprises

both the region and the country.

two campuses in Aracaju one in the city centre, the other just a pebbles throw

The gleaming new buildings of UNITs Institute of Technology

from the beach three campuses around Sergipe and a number of sites in

and Research hint at the universitys commitment to innovation and

neighbouring states.

research in areas such as the environment, biotechnologies and

UNIT became a college in 1962, and attained university status 30 years

energy. Hundreds of students have already taken advantage of the

later. Today, it has more than 32,000 students enrolled on 60 bachelors degrees

universitys cutting-edge equipment and generous funding, and

and technical courses, taught both on campus and at distance-learning sites.

pride of place is afforded to its NUESC study centre for petroleum

Heart of the community

the worlds fourth-largest energy company.

technologies the result of a partnership with Brazils Petrobras,

Learning at UNIT is truly a hands-on experience, and the university has long
committed itself to serving the local community through a network of widely

International reach

acclaimed specialist legal and medical centres. Its state-of-the-art university

Recent efforts to forge ties with universities overseas have sparked

hospital and dental clinic give low-income patients an alternative to the

a variety of exchange programmes with European and Latin

overstretched, underfunded local public system and prohibitively expensive

American universities, and grants to allow students to study in

private hospitals, while also providing students with invaluable practical experience.

Europe, North America and Australasia. We are working hard to

The services offered at the universitys psychology and physiotherapy clinics are

broaden our horizons and extend our international reach, says

not available via the public system, and as such are in high demand. In addition,

Jouberto. We have cultivated connections with 17 universities

a free legal-aid centre, run by the universitys law faculty, provides a range of

around the world and are launching a dedicated base in Boston,

services, from advice to representation.

Massachusetts. As Brazils presence on the world stage grows,

Rector Jouberto Ucha de Mendona has nurtured UNIT since its inception,

UNIT is convinced these international academic and cultural

and for him the universitys ongoing interaction with the community is a source

exchanges will give a global showcase to the countrys largely

of great pride. It really cheers me that we can help underprivileged people, he

overlooked academic potential.

says. Some of those weve assisted have later come to study at our university,

However, despite having set his sights on expanding, both in

so our students really are from all backgrounds.

Brazil and internationally, Jouberto is unwavering about UNITs

This diverse group of individuals has an ever-expanding choice of study

exceptional standards at home. We will not compromise on quality,

areas. The number of postgraduate and specialisation courses, including masters

he says. We have big aspirations, of course, but we do not strive

degrees and doctorates, that the university offers is on the increase each year.

to be the biggest just the best.

www.unit.br

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Shared experience
Collaboration is crucial to Universidade Veiga de Almeida, whether
students are working across departments or gaining valuable skills
with one of Brazils major companies

Spread across four campuses in the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro, Universidade
Veiga de Almeida (UVA) is a hive of educational activity. The Brazilian universitys
more than 24,000 students of various ages, and from all walks of life, produce
outstanding work in every field, from dental surgery to fashion design.
Multidisciplinary research
UVA places great emphasis on collaboration between the undergraduate and
graduate students in their different fields of study. We encourage multidisciplinary
research, says Arlindo Cardarett, the universitys Rector. So, for example, an
engineering student might be constructing something relevant to the environment,
such as a water-saving device, which he wants to sell. He would then work with
other students on the engineering, environment and business programmes so
they could test its feasibility in the marketplace.
To help students make the most of this approach they are given first-hand
exposure to the marketplace. For example, students studying at the universitys
International School of Business and Technology on the Campus Centro in
downtown Rio get to work directly with such major companies as Petrobras,
IBM and Santander bank.
We have workshops on the campus where staff from these companies
come to talk to our students about how business and technology works, and their
HR departments work with us to adapt our curriculum according to market needs,
explains Arlindo. In return, all our students get the opportunity to do internships
at these companies and hundreds of others.
At UVAs main campus in Tijuca, in the North Zone of the city, students benefit
from the world-class medical facilities of the Health Centre. Within this seven-storey
building, healthcare professionals in the fields of dental hygiene, physiotherapy,
nutrition, audiology and psychology provide treatment to people in the community,
while students get to observe and assist.
In the first semester of their course, students on the health programme watch
and learn from the professionals. But, by the last year of their studies, they are
working alongside them and treating people, says Arlindo. Indeed, one masters
student developed a hearing-aid device as part of his course for the audiology
clinic in the Health Centre, which impressed local companies Tecnofono and

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Speech Easy so much that they decided to work

with the student on the further development of
the product.
Proactive approach
This proactive approach is prevalent across all subject
areas. Each campus has a range of labs where students
can experiment. Graphic design students produce
their own animation films, explains Arlindo, while the
fashion students at our Barra campus in the West Zone
of Rio have the advantage of working with some of
the best local fashion companies on their designs.
They also participate heavily in Rio Fashion Week.

Students of various ages, and from all

walks of life, produce outstanding work
Its no wonder, then, that UVA was among the top
ten private universities in Brazil, as decided by the
Ministry of Education, in 2012. Its civil engineering
programme was deemed the eighth best in the
country, and its business management and physical
education programmes were also identified as leaders
in their respective fields.
All the universitys courses are currently taught in
Portuguese. However, this is set to change now that it
has joined the Ilumno Network of universities across
the Americas. UVA has already partnered with the
University of Texas at Arlington to provide distancelearning certificates in English. It is also in talks with
the likes of Florida International University and the
University of Edinburgh a process that looks set
to take UVAs collaborative ethos to the next level.

www.uva.br

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Principled approach
Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahmans strong links with local communities
and the wider business world alike reflect the malaysian institutions
emphasis on both social awareness and practical know-how

Every university has a mission, says Professor Chuah Hean Teik, President of
Malaysias Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). When students join us, we
want them to strive to be socially responsible, as well as academically successful.
Its a community-minded ethos that runs to the heart of the university, which
was awarded a small government grant in 2001 and is now thriving, thanks in
no small measure to public support. To date, more than $140 million has been
raised through everything from local noodle-frying fundraisers to children donating
their pocket money. For its part, UTAR now educates more than 23,000 students
and offers some 110 different degree programmes at its campuses in Kuala
Lumpur, Perak, Petaling Jaya and Sungai Long.
Educational ethos
To encourage its students to be ethically minded, the universitys educational
approach is grounded in six key philosophies: high morality; knowledge and intellect;
health; humanitarianism and social responsibility; ethics; and creativity and innovation.
These principles have practical applications, such as the introduction of the universitys
Soft Skills Development Certificate. Informed by UTARs emphasis on high morality,
the course is an option for all students alongside their main studies, and was designed
to cultivate moral and professional ethics, as well as critical thinking, problem-solving
abilities and teamwork skills.
The programmes on offer at UTAR range from traditional academic subjects, such
as life sciences and mathematics, to more contemporary courses, such as PR and
journalism. Computing, business and accounting are all popular at the university, and
its vast Perak campus also offers engineering, agriculture and environmental studies.
On-the-job learning has become a vital part of the undergraduate experience
at UTAR, says Professor Chuah. This enables our students to gain practical skills
and establish valuable industry contacts. On the universitys engineering courses,
for instance, the first two years of a degree programme are focused on engineering
fundamentals, while the latter two years incorporate company placements,

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On-the-job learning enables our students to gain practical

skills and establish valuable industry contacts
integrated engineering projects and specialisations. Its a question of balancing
knowledge with practice, says Professor Chuah. Around 97 per cent of our
graduates are employed within six months of graduating, and more than 50 per
cent secure employment before theyve even sat their final exams.
Community involvement
Thanks to the affordability of education at UTAR, and Malaysias great convergence
of cultures, the university attracts large numbers of domestic and overseas students
alike. And in keeping with its emphasis on social responsibility, all of the universitys
students can get involved in community projects whether teaching English,
working on environmental schemes, or contributing to any one of UTARs more
than 450 social entrepreneurship and community programmes.
The university is moving into multidisciplinary research with the aim of
providing greater socio-economic benefits to the community, explains Professor
Chuah. To this end, the Faculty of Engineering and Green Technology, for example,
has been researching construction materials, using local natural resources to
keep buildings cool. Were also continuing to develop our campuses, aiming
to incorporate green practices that ensure sustainability, he adds. Future plans
include creating a biodiversity park at the Perak campus, which will serve as
a research site for the universitys agriculture and bioscience undergraduates,
as well as a living repository for the regions native trees and plants.
Deeply connected to communities and industries across Malaysia, UTAR is
committed to community schemes and the encouragement of ethical engagement.
This approach differentiates the university from its competitors and has helped to
create a collaborative learning environment that produces socially conscious, and
highly employable, individuals.

www.utar.edu.my

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Expanding minds
In addition to raising educational standards in Tanzania,
The University of Iringa is championing the development
of its local communities and businesses

Like much of Africa, Tanzania has enjoyed relatively

gain practical experience, and produce goods and

stable growth since the turn of the century. This steady

services according to their specialist subject, says

economic progress is reflected in a commensurate

Provost Professor Nicholas Bangu.

rise in educational standards, with the University of

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www.tumaini.ac.tz

Iringa (UOI) at its forefront.

Community support

One of the countrys leading higher education

Agriculture is the main industry in the Iringa Region,

providers, the university started out as Iringa

and the UOI provides its local farming and business

Lutheran College and Seminary in 1994, before it

communities with invaluable support. The universitys

was incorporated under the umbrella of Tumaini

Institute of Agriculture, for instance, strives to help

University in 1997. It has expanded in scale and

farmers in around 40 of its surrounding villages move

reputation ever since, and in October 2013, the

beyond a subsistence level of farming. And, following

UOI celebrated a fresh landmark in its history

a successful bid to the European Development Fund

receiving fully fledged university status.

by Tanzania in 2013, the university has implemented

As the first autonomous, private institution in

a project that supports sustainable community

Tanzania to offer degree programmes, the UOI is

development. As well as offering tailored advice

helping to shape the countrys educational landscape.

to businesses, the UOI has established a Centre

With more than 4,000 students, the universitys

for Entrepreneurship Development to enhance the

faculties of arts and social sciences, business, law,

skills of students and community members alike.

science and education, and theology, along with its

With its newfound autonomous status, the

Institute of Agriculture, deliver courses at certificate,

university is eager to further expand its educational

diploma, bachelors and masters levels.

horizons. One such effort includes an agreement with

The university also offers an applied science

the Council on International Educational Exchange in

programme, which was launched in 2012 with a

the USA, whereby a group of up to 30 US students will

bachelors in Chemical Engineering. More subjects

travel to the UOI every year for a semester of study.

are set to follow shortly, and a five-storey facility

These exchanges will provide valuable educational and

with laboratories has been constructed to cater

cultural experiences. They will also help illustrate to the

for the new courses. We have also set aside an area

wider world UOIs role in developing dynamic leaders,

to build first-class factories so that the students can

and economic prosperity, in the region and beyond.

A healthy blend
With its strong overseas connections, lively cultural mix and
well-established reputation, Yerevan State Medical University
has put armenia on the medical education map

Situated in the capital of the Republic of Armenia, Yerevan State Medical University
after Mkhitar Heratsi (YSMU) is one of the leading higher medical universities in
Eastern Europe. Named after the 12th-century father of Armenian medicine,
it was founded in 1919 as a medical faculty within Yerevan State University and
established its independent status in 1930.
The cornerstones of YSMUs medical training are delivered by the faculties
of general medicine, pharmacology, public health, stomatology (specialising in
dentistry and oral diseases) and military medicine. Additional faculties include
those dedicated to international students and postgraduate study. With around
5,500 students enrolled at the university, YSMU has no fewer than 71 departments
dedicated to undergraduate education and a further 28 pitched at postgraduate level.
Multicultural medical experience
Based in the centre of the large and lively city of Yerevan, YSMU not only delivers
highly professional and hands-on medical degrees, but also offers an excitingly
multicultural university experience. Around one fifth of its students come from
overseas, including countries such as the USA, France, Israel, Russia, Georgia,
Ukraine, India, Iran, Syria and the Republic of the Maldives, and most classes are
taught in English, Russian and Armenian.
Since 1997, the university has been involved in the European Tempus and
Erasmus Mundus programmes set up for institutions in Armenia, Georgia and
Azerbaijan. Overseen by the European Commission, these programmes allot grants
and fellowships that enable students to study, teach or acquire additional training at
highly regarded European institutions. In addition, YMSU closely cooperates with
US-partner institutes such as the College of Physicians and Surgeons at Columbia
University, and Boston University School of Medicine. Complementing the universitys
own World Health Organization-recommended courses, these partnerships help
YSMU to produce leaders in their chosen field.
The institution leads and operates its own power plant, which provides all YSMU
buildings and adjoining clinics with electricity, heating and cooling systems. Its an
enterprising endeavour that epitomises YSMUs spirit of ambition and excellence
something of which its namesake medical pioneer would surely have approved.

www.ysmu.am

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The Omani people expect the university to continue

meeting the highest standards of scholarship

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A culture of quality
Committed to upholding the values of Omani tradition while
forging strong international links, the University of Nizwa has
impressive plans for the future

Omans ancient capital and traditional seat of learning, Nizwa, lies around 140km

The University of Nizwa has also developed close relationships with the

from the countrys principal city of Muscat. A thriving centre for trade, commerce

University of Wisconsin, as well as other institutions in the UK, France, Germany,

and art in the sixth and seventh centuries, it remains Omans cultural hub to this

Australia and Malaysia. In addition, it collaborates with regional institutions in

day, renowned for its historic mosques and educational achievements.

the UAE, Kuwait and Qatar.

A non-profit academic institution, the University of Nizwa is dedicated to

The universitys total of around 7,000 students has a substantial female

preserving the values and traditions of Omani culture. Many of our leaders were

majority, with women making up no less than 84 per cent of the entire student

educated in Nizwa, says Professor Ahmed bin Khalfan Al-Rawahi, the universitys

body. It delivers a wide spectrum of academic programmes, including around

Chancellor. The Omani people take that very seriously. They expect the university

45 undergraduate degrees that range in subject from education, science and

to continue meeting the highest standards of scholarship and learning, and to

languages, to pharmacy, engineering and architecture. Masters programmes

protect our Islamic heritage.

encompass economics, education, Arabic and information systems, and, in

the words of Professor Al-Rawahi, there are many more in the pipeline.

For learning, not profit

Despite being privately funded, the University of Nizwa is the only not-for-profit

Quality assurance

university in Oman. Our founders insisted on this to promote the values of good

In addition to its international links, the university enjoys strong ties with Sultan

learning, high-quality teaching and scholarly work, explains Professor Al-Rawahi.

Qaboos University Omans oldest government university, whose professors

Were trying to equip our students with the right skills, knowledge and values.

hold positions on the University of Nizwas academic council and board of trustees.

We do this through our research, and through the public services that we ask

We maintain this relationship to ensure continuity in the transfer of experience

our students and staff to undertake.

and knowledge, says Professor Al-Rawahi. It also provides quality assurance for

The university has developed strong relationships with prominent educational

our academic programmes.

institutions around the globe, and is currently working with Cambridge University

Since it was founded in 2004, the university has occupied a temporary campus

to create its own Chair of Material Science, to be funded by Omans Research

while work continues on a permanent home. This new campus will comprise more

Council. Intended to promote academic cooperation at undergraduate, masters

than 200,000sqm of buildings, including seven lecture halls, 256 classrooms and

and PhD levels, the chair will also lead research into Omans extensive natural

a seven-storey central library, which will hold more than one million books. Due for

resources of metals and minerals. In this way, the chair will add value to our

completion in 2016, it will also include accommodation for 1,400 students from

national economy, says Professor Al-Rawahi. The role also complements the

a projected population of up to 15,000. All told, its an impressive endeavour that

British universitys involvement in other Omani projects, including the forthcoming

looks set to cement Nizwas long-standing reputation for educational excellence

International Medical City and the Oman Science and Technology Park.

for generations to come.

www.unizwa.edu.om

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