Sorbonne Abu Dhabi Career Fair “Astrolabe 2013” creates abundant opportunities for students and companies 3/27/2013
Under the Patronage of H.E. Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan Minister of Culture, Youth & Community Development, Pr. Barthélémy Jobert, Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and Pr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi inaugurated the third edition of the University’s annual Career Expo, Astrolabe 2013, on Tuesday, 26th March 2013 at the University’s Al Reem Island campus in Abu Dhabi.
Prof. Eric Fouache said, “Astrolabe is a highly appealing event for the region’s eminent companies to connect with our dedicated students. Likewise, for our accomplished students, it’s an ideal opportunity to explore work opportunities and gain vital experience. The addition of the Interview Competition this year has made it even more compelling and competitive. Good luck to the contestants and we look forward to a bigger and more dynamic Astrolabe 2013.”
The opening of the event was witnessed by more than 500 guests, including a large number of senior officials from the government as well as the private sector, scores of talented students and alumni. During his key note presentation H.E. Khalfan Saeed Al Kaabi, First Vice Chairman of Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry said that “the Emirati youth has proved in all sites of work taken up by them that they possess a great capability of devotion, dedication, building and achievements if they are given the chance. Hence, we all must capitalize on this opportunity required by our young people and rely upon them in order for them to be key partners and major drivers of the process of growth and development. This is a responsibility to be collectively shouldered by us in a way that benefits our organizations, businesses, projects and our society under the aegis of which we have been brought up and developed.”
Organized by the Office Corporate Relations & Career Development Services part of Students Services Department, Astrolabe 2013 attendees enjoyed a business related speech by guest speaker Mr. Hussain Al Jaziri, Advocate, Ja'Afar Alwan, Al Jazirih & Associates and President of Alliance Française in Dubai who delivered a poignant and often humorous speech about his journey and experiences studying law in France. He encouraged students to learn another language and gain world knowledge that will prove invaluable in the professional world.
Astrolabe 2013 enabled a total of 46 companies of the region’s leading business organisations, government entities and NGOs keen on recruiting proficient students and graduates who excel in their disciplines to connect with Sorbonne-Abu Dhabi’s highly-qualified Emirati and international students. Impromptu interviews for current students and alumni took place during the full day event for full-time positions, temporary placements or internships within these prominent companies. An interesting feature of the Expo is ‘Career Speed Networking’ held across 40 tables facilitates company officials to meet with nearly 350 students to help them determine career directions.
An exciting element to this year’s Astrolabe is the Interview Competition in conjunction with Tan Services, an enterprise dealing with catamarans and luxury yachts. 12 shortlisted students were interviewed live in the morning in the atrium and only four progressed to the next round. In a clear test of intelligence, pressure, wits and self-confidence, two students were interviewed and declared winners by the jury consisting of four judges, including the General Manager of Tan Services. The final two candidates Fatima Qubaisi, UAE National and Soraya Bagheri, American were awarded an airline ticket to any destination of their choice.
Paris-Sorbonne University was exclusively invited by the Government Abu Dhabi to set up its Middle Eastern campus and help evolve the academic landscape as part of its higher education strategy. By deploying world-class education through its Bachelors and Masters programmes, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi has witnessed a remarkable growth and particularly strong demand from potential students for its post-graduate programmes.
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Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi appoints Dr. Fatima S. Al-Shamsi as Deputy Vice Chancellor Administrative Affairs 3/26/2013
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi announced that Dr. Fatima S. Al-Shamsi has joint the University as Deputy Vice Chancellor of Administrative Affairs. Dr. Fatima comes with a wealth of 20 years of experience in both academic and administrative fields in the Higher Education Sector.
Dr. Fatima has a Phd from the University of Exeter (UK) in Economics. In 2007 she was assigned by UAEU, as Secretary General, managing the administrative and financial affairs, including Human Resources, Finance, General Services, Procurement and Facility Management.
Dr. Fatima S. Al- Shamsi’s experience in higher education will help her to effectively serve and assist our students and partners. Dr. Fatima comments “I am excited to start a new challenge within Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi and look forward to working with the team to further develop their already extensive bachelor and master programme offers. I am fortunate to be joining such a respected French-Emirati University that prides itself on offering excellence education from the UAE to the region following the French education system.”
Prof. Eric Fouache, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi Vice-Chancellor, said: “Dr. Fatima’s wealth of experience both in academic and administrative fields in the Higher Education Sector has made her a key addition to the Sorbonne Abu Dhabi family. We view her appointment as a sign of our commitment to consolidate our University as an Emirati University that benefits from the 760 years of experience of the prestigious Sorbonne.”
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Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University celebrates International Day with flair 3/24/2013
True global spirit dominates cheerful celebration by students
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi held its annual International Day, on Thursday, 21st March 2013 at the University’s Al Reem Island campus in Abu Dhabi celebrating the diversity of the Sorbonne family through food, cultural ceremonies, dances and a fashion show.
This event shows Sorbonne University’s efforts to bring the world to Abu Dhabi. Their motto “A bridge between civilisations” extends not only between France and the UAE, but from the University to the rest of the world with students representing 65 different nationalities. “You don’t have to travel to see what life might be like in the different countries [represented at International Day],” said a Cameroonian student. The event offers a rare insider’s view into foreign cultures.
The International Day event, organized by the Cultural and Student Life Department, shows off the University’s talented student body by paying tribute to their national identities. The goal is to illustrate the values of diversity and respect in a fun and interesting way. Attendees included students, parents, academic and administrative bodies, as well as government officials from various countries represented. One French student observed, “It is interesting to see how people identify themselves in their own countries and what they chose to represent it. They are all different.”
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “International Day ensures our students enhance their appreciation of global diversity by immersing themselves in a rich fusion of cultures and today’s remarkable turnout and spirited performances are evidence that a dynamic multicultural environment thrives at Sorbonne-Abu Dhabi.”
Distinctive events included national dance performances with displays of dabkeh and salsa, as well as a folkloric fashion show where students proudly displayed their national costumes. Students also offered a glimpse of their crafting skills at the arts and crafts exhibit at country booths, and special events included a Korean dance, Colombian ballet show, African ceremony and a traditional Moroccan wedding. A significant Emirati element was present through memorable Emirati hospitality ambassadors. International dishes were prepared by the students and restaurants themselves for University officials, faculty members, friends and family.
“What’s great about our university is that it’s really cultural, probably one of the most multi-cultural universities in the UAE,” said one Emirati student.
The Sorbonne Abu Dhabi is a truly international University not just in student body, but in education and language with Bachelor programmes taught in French (except the new BS in Physics) and Master programmes taught in English.
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Sorbonne Abu Dhabi’s Beach Volleyball and Soccer Tournament calls Attention To A Healthy Lifestyle 3/12/2013
UAE National Volleyball team to take part; Students and residents compete to win a round-the-world trip
More than 220 students and residents are out to raise awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle by taking part in a beach volleyball and soccer tournament on Abu Dhabi’s Public Beach this coming Wednesday evening (March 13, 2013).
According to the event organiser, 32 teams will take part in four-a-side beach volleyball matches, as another 16 teams compete in a six-a-side soccer tournament. Prizes include trophies and a round-the-world trip for two. The Beach Tournament is in support of Francophone month - to promote joint Franco-Emirati cooperation - held in conjunction with Institut Français des Emirats Arabes Unis throughout March.
Alexandre Blaise, Head of the Sports Department at Paris Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi also said that the tournament is an opportunity for the students and their families to come together to raise awareness of the importance of regular exercise.
“We are all excited and already feel that the Beach Volleyball and Soccer Tournament will be great fun, as well as a wonderful opportunity for us to play a role in promoting the importance of physical activity in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Indeed, we are focusing our efforts in support of Imperial College London Diabetes Centre’s (ICLDC) public health awareness campaign, ‘Diabetes-Knowledge-Action’.”
‘Diabetes-Knowledge-Action’ was launched by ICLDC in 2007 under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. The multi-faceted campaign stands strong in its seventh year as it continues to speak to the nation about the attributes of a balanced diet and regular exercise in achieving a healthy lifestyle.
Blaise said that teams from Paris Sorbonne-France, Sorbonne-Abu Dhabi, New York University Abu Dhabi, Masdar Institute, Zayed University, Petroleum Institute, Total and Institut Français des Emirats Arabes Unis are already on-board.
“We have had a great response but registration is open until 5:45 pm on Wednesday. Just turn up at Abu Dhabi Corniche Public Beach Gate 4 and join the pre-match warm-up session. The matches will start at 6:00pm, after the opening ceremony.”
Blaise said that it doesn’t stop at Wednesday night’s activities, and confirmed that Sorbonne Abu Dhabi is preparing to host the UAE National Women’s Volleyball team on Thursday (March 14 2013). The second tourney will start at 6.30pm and sees the National team up against a Sorbonne team made up of students from the Abu Dhabi campus, alongside visiting students from Paris-Sorbonne, France.
Professor Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi acknowledged what a privilege it is to host the UAE National Women’s Volleyball Team. “We are extremely pleased to host these volleyball tournaments and help encourage the athletic prowess of our students and residents. It is also a great honour to have the UAE National Women’s Volleyball Team agree to play against our own Sorbonne squad. It promises to be great fun to watch as they boost each other’s performance. Indeed, Sorbonne-Abu Dhabi underscores the significance of sports as a life-long discipline and believes that active bodies lead to active minds.”
He said that beyond an exceptional education, Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has numerous athletic programmes as part of its academic experience, stressing that students are encouraged to participate in sports as they embrace healthy lifestyle. He said that students frequently compete in inter-university athletics, international competitions and regional tournaments. |
Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University hosts seminar for UAE French Teachers 3/5/2013
Within the frame of “March is Francophone Festival” in the UAE
The Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi in collaboration with “l'Institut Français des Emirats Arabes Unis” (IFEAU) and Paris Ile-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CII), launched the start of the annual festival promoting “Francophonie” with an international seminar to support the development of teaching and learning French as a foreign language in the UAE. The one-day discussions addressed researchers, practitioners, and teaching professionals from several UAE schools where French is taught as a second language.
The seminar’s main objective centered on elevating the prominence of French as a teaching language in the region by exploring intercultural cooperation, reviewing and sharing teaching methodologies in a fast-evolving and communication-driven culture.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, said, “We are highly pleased to host this seminar in conjunction with IFEAU and CCI Paris Ile-de-France. French is a historically rich language with distinctive nuances and intricacies and this seminar was highly significant in fostering connections between theory and practice. As an Emirati university with a French curriculum, our aim is to examine, inform and engage future directions of linguistic competence so all our students benefit from a progressive learning experience.”
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is the only Sorbonne campus outside France. Based in the UAE, its current programmes include 10 globally-recognised Bachelor degrees spanning Arts, Humanities, Economics and Business disciplines which are taught in French, and a news science bachelor in Physics taught in English. The Masters courses include a professional master programme in Teaching of French as a Foreign Language.
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Mars est FrancOphone ! 2/27/2013
Mars 2013 : un mois de célébrations autour de la Francophonie
En partenariat avec l'Alliance Française d'Abou Dabi et Al Aïn, l'Alliance Française de Dubai et l'Université Paris-Sorbonne Abou Dabi, l'Institut Français annonce le lancement le 3 Mars 2013 du festival annuel de la Francophonie. Ce concept ancré dans l'histoire et partagé par 77 pays (représentant 900 millions d'habitants), repose sur une langue commune mais aussi sur une culture, une histoire et une politique communes. Cette événement prend d'autant plus de sens ici que les Emirats Arabes Unis sont membres observateurs de l'Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie depuis 2010.
Pour rendre hommage à cette communauté, un large éventail d'événements sur la langue française, la culture francophone et la coopération franco-émirienne aura lieu à Abou Dabi, Al Aïn et Dubai sur une période de quatre semaines, du 3 au 29 mars. D'un concert de Hip-hop à des activités familiales, en passant par une expo de peinture, un opéra, du sport, ou du cinéma, il y en aura pour tous les goûts !
Le programme :
Le festival s'ouvrira le 3 Mars, avec un colloque proposé par l'Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi et intitulé “Le FLE au crible de la grammaire”. Une réflexion sur la manière dont la grammaire doit être intégrée dans l'enseignement du Français Langue Etrangère. De 9 à 17h30, avec la présence de nombreux experts français.
Les festivités se poursuivront le 6 Mars à 19h à l'Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, où l'Institut Français proposera le concert exceptionnel de la reine francophone du hip-hop arabe Malikah, qui est de retour à Abu Dhabi après y avoir fait avec succès la première partie de Snoop Dog en 2011.
Le 8 mars sera une journée de célébration à l'occasion de la Journée internationale de la Femme.
De 10 à 18h nous organiserons une compétition de volleyball impliquant des équipes féminines locales, à l'Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi.
Dès 20 heures, nous lancerons au Sofitel Abu Dhabi Corniche une exposition exceptionnelle de peintures et sculptures réalisées par des femmes artistes engagées. Ces françaises vivants aux Emirats Arabes Unis ou ces émiriennes partageant un intérêt pour la culture française nous offrirons un regard bi-culturel sur l'art aux EAU. Cette exposition sera ouverte jusqu'au 23 mars 2013.
Entre le 5 et le 10 mars, les écrivains français Dominique de Saint Mars, Maxime Chattam et Jérôme Ferrari seront présents au Festival de Littérature Emirates Airlines à Dubai, en partenariat avec l'Alliance Française de Dubai.
Du 9 au 24 mars, le 15ème "Printemps des poètes", un événement célébré internationalement, aura lieu à l'Alliance Française de Dubai. Il sera composé de plusieurs événements et activités autour de la poésie et du thème de cette année : « Les voix du poème ».
Les 10, 21 et 22 Mars, un concours de chanson française sera organisé par l'Alliance Française d'Abou Dabi et l'Alliance Française de Dubai. Le 10 Mars, les demi-finales auront lieu à la fois à Dubaï et Abou Dabi, le 21 Mars, la finale aura lieu à Dubaï et le 22 Mars, les trois finalistes recevront leurs prix et chanteront durant la grande fête donnée sur la plage d'Abou Dabi (East Plaza). Inscrivez-vous à l'Alliance Française et tentez de gagner un aller-retour pour Paris !
Le 12 Mars à 19h, la dernière production de l'opéra français le plus apprécié de tous les temps, Carmen de Georges Bizet, sera projetée au Cinéma VOX Marina Mall, en collaboration avec l'Alliance Française d'Abu Dhabi et d'Al Ain et de l'ADMAF, dans le cadre de l'Abu Dhabi Festival.
Le 13 Mars de 17 à 22h30, l'Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi organisera, en partenariat avec l'Institut Français, un tournoi de Beach-volley/Beach-soccer sur la plage d'Abou Dabi. Inscrivez votre équipe et essayez de gagner le premier prix !
Le 14 Mars, la traditionnelle dictée des apprenants en langue française aura lieu à l'Alliance Française d'Abou Dabi. A 18h pour les adolescents de 10 à 16 ans, à 19h pour les adultes de 16 ans et plus.
Le 22 Mars une grande après-midi festive marquera le point d'orgue de ce festival. Rejoignez-nous pour une fête de famille à la française, avec de nombreuses activités culturelles, ludiques et festives ! Jeux, stands, performances et démonstration d'artistes avec, pour finir, un concert du groupe français basé à Abou Dabi « Same Same But Different ». A cette occasion, les résultats du concours de la chanson française et du concours "Dis-moi dix mots semés au loin" seront annoncés et de nombreux prix seront distribués.
Du 23 au 29 Mars, l'Institut français organisera le FrancOfilm festival, la troisième édition du Festival du Film Francophone aux Emirats Arabes Unis, en partenariat avec les ambassades de Belgique, du Canada, d'Egypte, de France, du Liban, du Maroc et de Suisse. Avec, en tête d'affiche, l'avant première dans les pays du Golfe de «Astérix et Obélix, God Save Britannia" ainsi que le film d'animation pour les enfants « L’Illusionniste ». Un événement soutenu par Dubai International Film Festival et twofour54.
Durant tout le mois:
Des « French days » auront lieu dans plusieurs universités des Emirats pour animer leur campus avec des activités culturelles et éducatives mettant en valeur le savoir-faire français, la langue et la culture françaises, ainsi que la coopération Franco-émirienne, avec la participation de prestigieuses entreprises françaises (Faces, Lacoste parfum, ST Dupont et plus). Ouvert aux étudiantes de ces universités uniquement.
Une exposition intitulée « La Francophonie s'affiche » mettra en vedette les trente plus belles affiches présentant des manifestations du monde francophone de 1975 à 2011.
Du 1 au 15 mars – à l’Alliance Française de Dubai
Du 15 au 30 mars – à l’Alliance Française d'Abou Dabi
Le concours des dix mots
Chaque année, le Concours des dix mots, invite les apprenants à réaliser une production artistique ou littéraire reposant sur un travail linguistique à partir de dix mots français. La sélection de cette année est : atelier, bouquet, cachet, coup de foudre, équipe, protéger, savoir-faire, unique, vis-à-vis et voilà. Les résultats de ce concours seront donnés lors de l'après-midi festive du 22 mars sur la plage d'Abou Dabi (East Plaza).
Citations des organisateurs:
Denis Douveneau, le Directeur de l'Institut Français et Conseiller de coopération et d'action culturelle à l'ambassade de France, a souligné qu'il était « heureux et impatient devant ce mois si fécond en événements offerts au public des EAU par plusieurs institutions, qu'elles soient émiriennes comme la Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, françaises comme l'Institut Français ou construites en partenariat entre la France et les autorités émiriennes comme les Alliances d'Abu Dhabi et d'Al Aïn, d'une part, et de Dubaï, d'autre part, qui sont des ONG dont les présidents sont de remarquables personnalités locales. Il a déclaré qu'il y aura des événements surprenants et variés présentés à un large public en différents endroits et qu'il espérait que tout le monde puisse, d'une façon ou d'une autre, se joindre aux animations. »
Pr. Dr Eric Fouache, le Vice-chancelier de l'Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, a déclaré:
"Ce festival annuel est une formidable occasion de promouvoir au-delà de notre campus, et en collaboration avec l'Institut Français et les Alliances Françaises, la richesse de la langue française et de la culture francophone. Les festivités débuteront par un colloque académique adressé aux professeurs de français des Emirats Arabes Unis. Nous serons également les hôtes d'un concert de hip-hop francophone et arabe avec Malikah, le jeudi 6 Mars dans notre auditorium, ainsi que d'une excitante compétition de volley-ball sur la plage d'Abu Dhabi le 13 Mars. Par ces événements, Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi vise à répondre aux attentes culturelles de cette région dynamique.
Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi s'assure que ses élèves enrichissent leurs sensibilités culturelles avec des programmes d’exception tels que français intensif, une licence en littérature française et comparée, un master d'enseignement du français langue étrangère, un master d'histoire de l'art et muséologie, ou encore un master en gestion des arts de la scène pour n'en nommer que quelques-uns. De plus, nous avons une des plus grandes bibliothèques françaises au Moyen-Orient, aussi bien en imprimés et en ligne, proposant une gamme exceptionnelle de titres, y compris pour la recherche scolaire et la littérature classique. À la Sorbonne, nous nous dévouons à l'établissement d'Abou Dabi comme un important pôle culturel, en droite ligne avec le projet de vision économique pour 2030."
Jean-Yves Carnino, le Directeur de l'Alliance Française d'Abou Dabi a ajouté :
« L'Alliance Française d'Abou Dabi est très heureuse de participer à cette grande fête. Il est en effet important de marquer l'événement au mieux dans ce pays qui est, ne l'oublions pas, membre observateur de l'Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie. Trois événements majeurs sont à retenir : l'exposition « La Francophonie s'affiche », le concours de la chanson française et la projection du célèbre opéra Carmen, dans sa version la plus récente ». |
Malikah à Abu Dhabi pour un concert exceptionnel gratuit! 2/27/2013
L’Institut Français des Emirats Arabes Unis, en collaboration avec l’Université Paris-Sorbonne Abou Dabi, est fier de présenter la chanteuse de hip-hop de renommée internationale, Malikah, en concert le 6 Mars 2013 à 19 heures. Le concert sera gratuit et aura lieu à l'auditorium de l’université Paris-Sorbonne Abou Dabi.
De retour à Abu Dhabi, où elle a fait l’ouverture du concert de Snoop Dogg sur Yas Island en 2011, Malikah «reine du hip hop arabe» est la première artiste féminine de hip-hop arabe et francophone de la région. Une pionnière dans tous les domaines, de la musique à la culture, elle a été repérée par des producteurs internationaux depuis qu'elle est apparue sur la scène. Son premier album est en cours de production par FRED WRECK (qui a travaillé avec Snoop Dogg, Britney Spears et 50 Cent pour n’en citer que quelques uns). Malikah est maintenant en tournée promotionnelle en vue de la sortie de son album, après avoir déjà tourné en France, en Suisse, en Allemagne, au Mali, en Libye, au Liban et en Oman.
Cet événement exceptionnel fera parti du mois de la Francophonie, organisé par l'Institut Français, l’Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, l'Alliance française d'Abu Dhabi et d'Al Ain et l'Alliance française de Dubai. Ce festival de quatre semaines qui promeut la francophonie par le biais d'un large éventail d'activités sur la langue française, la culture francophone et la coopération franco-émirienne, proposera des concerts, des films, des expositions et bien plus encore partout dans les Émirats Arabes Unis, avec des manifestations culturelles prévues dans la capitale, mais également à Al Ain et à Dubaï afin de célébrer l'identité francophone.
Citations:
Le directeur de l’Institut Français, Denis Douveneau, a déclaré que:
"L’Institut français des EAU a l'ambition d'être un pont entre les sociétés contemporaines françaises et émiriennes et d'élargir le spectre de ce que la culture peut signifier dans notre monde globalisé. C'est un plaisir à cet égard d'inviter Malikah à donner un concert pour le public des EAU.
Malikah est une porteuse d’un message multiculturel fort: elle est née en France de parents libanais et algériens, a grandi au Liban et vit actuellement à Dubaï ; elle chante dans des langues différentes, en mettant en contact une musique originaire des États-Unis et la culture arabe. Malikah est une jeune artiste talentueuse. C’est une chanteuse extraordinaire pouvant rendre hommage à un mois de manifestations dédiées à la francophonie dans ses divers aspects. La francophonie est devenue une organisation internationale mature en l’espace de quelques décennies et est désormais consacrée à tous les aspects de ce que peut être l’identité «francophone», une identité ouverte aux cultures du monde.
Alors venez profiter de ce concert gratuit de Malikah le 6 Mars à Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, une excellente université émirienne, un fleuron de la coopération entre la France et les Emirats Arabes Unis! Peu importe si vous êtes francophone ou non, peu importe si vous êtes jeune ou non, ce concert est une étape importante pour Mars 2013. "
Le Professeur Eric Fouache, Vice-chancelier de l’Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, a également souligné que: « L’Université Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi est une institution qui s’efforce de s’adresser à la communauté en promouvant les arts et en créant des cours spécifiques tels que notre Master en Management des Arts du spectacle qui a pour ambition de répondre aux attentes culturelles du pays. Nous sommes impatients d’accueillir le concert exceptionnel de Malikah et de célébrer ensemble aux EAU le mois de la Francophonie ». |
Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University committed to Sustainable Development 2/19/2013
Inauguration of Sorbonne Abu Dhabi Sustainability Team
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrated the inauguration of its Sustainability Team platform on its Al Reem island campus. This initiative was created by the students council and a group of students of Master’s in International Law specialization in “Sustainable Development” for the whole of the University body, aiming to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability in the strategic vision of Abu Dhabi’s development, both economic and environmental.
The launching event opened with a short filmed projection on the experience of the sustainability team field trip to Kenya, visiting among other sites, the National Park, the Kenya Wildlife Institute and Lake Nakuru. These highly motivated Master’s students met environmental scientists who shared their experience in using natural sciences knowledge to protect the environment versus societal transformation.
The evening continued with the inauguration of the ‘Sustainability Tent’ or ‘Majlis Al-Istidama’, where a lecture was conducted by media consultant Mohammed Al-Qudsi, who described His Highness Late Sheikh Zayed directives in the field of Environmental Sustainability.
This tent will serve as a majilis to host discussions about Abu Dhabi’s Economic vision first priority: “Building a Sustainable Economy”.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “We believe in our students potentials and such gatherings cannot but help fostering the international cooperation in global sustainable development. We are convinced by the central role of education in promoting sustainability. Our students are showing much interest in this field and we are here to support their initiatives”. |
Paris-Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University pluridisciplinary offer boosts study options for local students on Open Day 2/13/2013
Today, the Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is holding its Open Day at its Al Reem campus presenting its pluridisciplinary education offer with globally-recognised 10 Bachelor degrees and 9 Master degrees spanning Arts, Humanities, Sciences, Economics and Business disciplines. Over 1,200 registered prospective students and their families have been visiting the campus for a direct introduction and discussion of programme options at Sorbonne Abu Dhabi.
The Admissions and Recruitment team has reported a surge of 15% of interested students who have already enrolled into courses on the Open Day. These applications will be later evaluated and successful students informed about their official acceptance into the university.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “We are extremely pleased by the turnout at today’s Open Day with the number of registered attendees having surpassed previous editions. The volume of interest and applications is a definite indication of the students’ enthusiasm in pursuing world-class French education in Abu Dhabi.”
Visiting students met with enrolled students who joined Sorbonne Abu Dhabi without prior knowledge of the French language. Thanks to the intensive French course that prepares students for their undergraduate degrees, they learnt the language and continue to progress during their bachelor studies taught in French. For a first-hand glimpse into the university’s exceptional education methodology, attendees are also participating in frequent workshops offering a basic introduction to the French language.
The Open Day programme includes a presentation highlighting the calibre of the French academic system and its growing significance outside France. Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi serves as a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi’s emerging higher education strategy through unique courses designed to meet the region’s future manpower requirements. At 1pm, Sorbonne Abu Dhabi hosted an informative session on its recently launched new Bachelor of Physics to be taught in English.
Acting as ambassadors of the University, present students, academics and staff are leading visitors and their family members on guided class and campus tours throughout the day which is an ideal occasion for informal, informative chats that provide a better comprehension about various aspects of university life and the close-knit Sorbonne ‘family’.
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Sorbonne Abu Dhabi University announces science undergraduate programme 2/12/2013
Science students in the region get a new opportunity with the launch of Bachelor of Physics
To expand its academic offerings, Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi announces the launch of Bachelor of Physics, its 10th undergraduate degree, tomorrow Feb 13th during its Open Day at 1pm on Al Reem island campus. This new programme -commencing in September 2013- is in collaboration with the renowned Pierre and Marie Curie University in France and prepares students for future global challenges related to science, energy and the environment.
The Bachelor of Physics will offer students the fundamentals in the multifaceted field of physics. Spanning three years, this exclusive programme will be offered in English by innovative lecturers and covers an array of topics including mathematics, computer sciences, and applied physics. For the first two years, this course is designed for students to acquire interdisciplinary knowledge of physics including the theoretical and experimental aspects. In the last year, students will refine their skills and specialisation through mandatory work placement in a laboratory, academic entity or industrial institution.
The Pierre and Marie Curie University (UPMC) belongs to the top 50 worldwide and to the top 10 European best universities according to the latest Shanghai Academic ranking. With 3,250 researchers in 120 laboratories, the Pierre and Marie Curie University partners with major French organisations and prestigious foreign universities, like Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, to promote French academic excellence.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “The launch of the Bachelor of Physics reflects the escalating demand for programmes in the region that deals with both science and technology. It also represents the strategic growth of Sorbonne Abu Dhabi as a pluridisciplinary academic institution aligned to the economic progress and future vision of the UAE.”
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Unique insight into UAE’s ancient civilisations at Sorbonne Abu Dhabi lecture 2/5/2013
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi held a lecture by Dr. Walid Yasin Al Tikriti a field archaeologist and expert from Tourism and Culture Authority (TCA), on the archaeology of Umm an-Nar island, Hili and Bida Bint Saud with a primary focus on rock art. On Monday, 4th February 2013, this discussion explored the Bronze and Iron Age communities and monuments, including cemeteries, which disclosed the culture and lifestyle of UAE’s early inhabitants.
The presentation introduced the main archaeological features that existed from 2600-2000 BC on Umm an-Nar Island, a key site located in Abu Dhabi, offshore next to the Maqta bridge. A major feature of the island is the large cemetery comprising over 50 dome-shaped tombs. The rock art adorning these tombs have intricate geometric designs that has attracted global interest and appreciation.
Dr. Al Tikriti also discussed the significance of these settlements and carvings as well as the discovery of falaj (underground water channel) in these areas. This innovative system of directing water reveals the ingenuity of the inhabitants in using the land’s resources.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “This lecture offered a remarkable glimpse into the ancient civilisations of the Arabian peninsula. Sorbonne Abu Dhabi constantly collaborates with government organisations and entities to obtain a deeper insight into the UAE’s history.”
As an Emirati university, Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi plays an active role in the society of the UAE and aspires to become a center for research promoting knowledge especially on the UAE heritage and culture. |
Sorbonne Abu Dhabi and Institut Français hosted the first edition of French Publishers Day 2/2/2013
French language teachers to experience innovative publishing techniques
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi together with “l'Institut Français des Emirats Arabes Unis” (IFEAU) held the first French Publishers Day. The inaugural seminar and exhibition on publishing of French as a Foreign Language aimed to promote French culture by enhancing the linguistic skills of students in UAE schools where French is taught as a second language.
The event featured academic officials and publishing representatives who presented new publications alongside learning methodologies including interactive and fun digital resources. Renowned publishing houses like Hachette, Didier/Hatier and Clé International introduced their pedagogic catalogues and promoted the latest educational techniques and digital applications. Teachers from different Emirates were exclusively invited.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “We are delighted to collaborate with IFEAU to host and support the first edition of the French Publishers Day. This event is immensely significant to our academic objectives as the Bachelor programmes we offer are all taught in French and we offer a professional master programme in Teaching of French as a Foreign Language. Moreover, we have one of the largest French libraries in the Middle East, both printed and online, featuring an exceptional array of titles including scholastic research and classic literature”.
Denis Douveneau, the Director of the Institut Français declared that “Francophonie is a broad concept promoted since the late 50’s by enlightened leaders all over the world. Starting with the language but going through other various cultural aspects like literature, law, social values, tolerance, dialogue among civilizations, it indeed matches the top priority set up by the leaders of the United Arab Emirates whose model is so singular and turned to the future. The Institut Français is willing to develop ties with stakeholders to share experiences and contribute to the improvement of local standards which are actually already good. This seminar was the first of many. Our combined partnership with Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, that I cherish, will go a long way. Providing academic expertise is a way of incorporating French standards into curricula in schools developing French tuitions in the country.”
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi offers a professional master programme in Publishing, Information and Multimedia to contribute to the development of the local publishing industry. The university also supports publishing endeavors and initiatives in conjunction with French and UAE organizations like Kitab, the Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, French bodies depending from the Embassy. Past collaborations include the Publishers Training Conference held in November 2012 and Abu Dhabi Book Fair 2012. Along with the Institut français, the University will also participate in the forthcoming Abu Dhabi Book Fair in April 2013.
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Key perspectives and historical progress of professional diplomats examined at Sorbonne Abu Dhabi roundtable discussion 1/28/2013
Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi launched the 2013 season of lectures open to the public with a discussion on the important career of international diplomats held on Monday, 28th January 2013. Hosted by history of international relations specialists, Prof. Alain Tallon and Dr. Isabelle Dasque from Paris-Sorbonne University, and François Gautier, First Counselor at the French Embassy, the roundtable discussion scrutinised the professions of diplomatic agents and their career progress throughout the ages, from the Renaissance era to the current period.
The discussion featured the multiple functions of embassies including its vital mission of serving and protecting citizens who live and work abroad. The audience learned how every diplomat, from the Ambassador and Consul General to the Economic Advisor and Cultural Advisor, play crucial roles. The roundtable also touched upon how the business of diplomacy became diverse and the evolution of the recruitment process.
Prof. Dr. Eric Fouache, Vice-Chancellor of Paris-Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi said, “Embassies and diplomatic officials around the world play a major role in international relations and are indispensable to its citizens. This discussion, from historical and contemporary perspectives, offers a fascinating insight into the development of a diplomat’s role over the centuries. At Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, we groom future leaders through our tailored professional courses like the Bachelor programmes in History-Civilisations and International Affairs, Law, Applied Foreign Languages and a Master programme in International Law, Diplomacy and International Relations, all highly advantageous for students with career aspirations in the diplomatic field.”
Sorbonne Abu Dhabi frequently organises events and discussion that provide interesting angles for the benefit of its students and the local community. Forthcoming lectures include ‘The Last Days of Courtesy’ on Wednesday, 30th January 2013 on the decline and different aspects of courtesy and civility. On Monday, 4th February 2013, the university will hold a lecture on the archaeology features of Umm an-Nar Island, Hili and Bida Bint Saud. Please visit the Events Calendar on www.sorbonne.ae to view a list of the upcoming events.
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