LUMS Welcomes Scottish Delegation to Explore Academic and Research Partnerships
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A delegation from Scotland visited LUMS on September 11, 2024, to explore potential collaborations in academia, research, and cultural exchange. The visit was facilitated by LUMS alumnus, Mr. Arsalan Ijaz Answer (BSc 2002), CEO, Taar Group and representative of the Pakistan UK Business Council (FPCCI).
The delegation, led by Dr. Jeanette Forbes, the Scottish Chambers of Commerce designated Ambassador to Pakistan, comprised members from Robert Gordon University (RGU), including Professor Lynn Kilbride, Vice Principal for Academic Development and Student Experience, and Dr. Elliot Pirie, Associate Dean for Academic Development and Student Engagement at the School of Computing, Engineering, and Technology.
They were welcomed by Dr. Tariq Jadoon, Provost, LUMS; Ms. Nuzhat Kamran, Director of Advancement; Dr. Muhammad Adeel Zaffar, Associate Professor, Suleman Dawood School of Business; Ms. Ayesha Zafar Ali, Director of the Centre for Continuing Education Studies; Ms. Zainab Masood, Associate Director of the Office of International Affairs; and Mr. Anas Ashraf Ali, Head of Development.
During the visit, Dr. Forbes emphasised the importance of promoting student and cultural exchange between LUMS and institutions in Scotland. "Our objective is to explore the possibilities of collaboration between Robert Gordon University and LUMS at both the student and faculty levels. Open discussions like these are crucial for identifying mutually beneficial opportunities. We hope this visit marks the beginning of many more to come," she remarked. This is Dr. Forbes' second visit to LUMS this year, highlighting her dedication to establishing deeper ties between Scottish institutions and LUMS. She also expressed her gratitude for the warm welcome and reiterated her commitment to establishing fruitful academic connections.
Ms. Kamran provided a comprehensive overview of LUMS. She discussed the university's growth into a leading comprehensive institution, its recent global accolades, and its deep commitment to diversity and inclusion. She also highlighted the flagship National Outreach Programme (NOP), which aims to make quality education accessible to talented students across Pakistan, and LUMS' extensive partnerships with industry and academia.
Professor Kilbride praised LUMS for its impressive achievements and alignment with RGU's mission to transform lives through teaching excellence, impactful research, and community engagement. She noted, "At Robert Gordon University, we are deeply committed to transforming the lives of our students and communities through a multidisciplinary approach across all our schools. We look forward to exploring the potential for collaboration in various fields, from academic programmes to industry-driven research initiatives."
Dr. Jadoon expressed enthusiasm for the potential collaboration between LUMS and RGU, noting the many similarities between the institutions. "There are numerous opportunities for international exchange programmes, collaborative research projects, and joint funding applications. Our strengths in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Water Informatics and Technology align with RGU's areas of expertise. We are excited to explore these possibilities further," he said.
Discussions during the visit also highlighted the potential for student and faculty exchange programmes. Dr. Zaffar proposed initiating bilateral student exchanges to strengthen academic ties.
Mr. Anwer highlighted the potential for a broader partnership, encompassing curriculum exchange, faculty collaboration, and joint industry initiatives. "By focusing on inclusivity and leveraging our strengths, we can create a significant impact on both sides," he stated.
The visit marked an important step towards developing stronger ties between LUMS and Scottish institutions, paving the way for future collaborations in education, research, and cultural exchange.
