Zayed University and the International Centre for Biosaline Agriculture, ICBA, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to boost research and training collaboration.

The Memorandum provides a framework for cooperation for three years in such areas as research, training and outreach on subjects related to sustainable development in the UAE.

Speaking during the signing ceremony, Professor Reyadh AlMehaideb, Vice President of Zayed University, said, "As part of this collaboration, students from Zayed University will be able to attend training events and do internships at ICBA. ICBA will avail its facilities to Zayed University faculty and student researchers to carry out joint research activities."

Dr. Ismahane Elouafi, Director-General of ICBA, said, "We are very pleased to sign this Memorandum with Zayed University, which is one of the leading education providers in the UAE. We are confident that this collaboration will serve as a platform for knowledge sharing as Zayed University students and researchers will have opportunities to work together with ICBA scientists and carry out research at ICBA’s unique facilities and the university’s unique setting."

Dr. Fares Howari, Acting Dean of College of Natural and Health Sciences, Zayed University, said, "We are excited about this cooperation which will open avenues to develop joint research programmes that focus on agriculture in marginal areas, salinity management, and the proper use of saline water in irrigating certain crops that can be used for animal feed and biofuels. Our college is developing a Master’s programme, based on our successful Bachelor’s programmes in Environmental Sciences and Nutrition and Public Health, that addresses some aspects of these issues and having ICBA as a partner is really important to us."