The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, attended the inauguration of IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi on Monday. This marks the debut of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT-Delhi) outside of India, establishing a significant milestone for the leading STEM education and research institution.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
During the inauguration, Sheikh Khaled observed the launch of strategic collaborations between IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi and several eminent institutions in Abu Dhabi. The partnerships include Khalifa University, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and Zayed University.
Campus Tour and Academic Review
Sheikh Khaled toured the IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi campus, evaluating its academic programs and facilities. The institute is set to collaborate with Khalifa University on research initiatives and academic programs, including sharing research resources and facilitating student and faculty exchanges.
Collaborations with Other Prestigious Institutions
IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi will also work with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi on joint research projects, postgraduate student exchanges, and academic events. The partnership with Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence will focus on joint research, seed project grants, and short training programs. Zayed University will engage in faculty and student exchanges, collaborative research, and academic events.
Support for Abu Dhabi’s Vision
Sheikh Khaled emphasized the role of IIT-Delhi Abu Dhabi in aligning with the leadership’s vision of creating a diverse global education hub. The new campus supports Abu Dhabi’s climate change efforts and aims to develop future leaders in sustainability.
Key Figures and Witnesses
The establishment agreement for the Abu Dhabi campus was also witnessed by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in July 2023. The inauguration was attended by notable figures including Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Shamma Al Mazrui, Reem Al Hashimy, Sara Musallam, Mubarak Hamad Al Mheiri, Rima Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Sunjay Sudhir, Professor Rangan Banerjee, and Professor Shantanu Roy.
This historic opening marks a new chapter in international education, fostering greater collaboration and innovation between India and the UAE.