German Exchange Students at UAEU Wish They Could Stay Longer
Prof. Mohamed Yousif Baniyas, Provost and Chief Academic Officer of United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) met with the German exchange students from the Philipps University of Marburg, who have just completed their year of studies at UAEU as part of an exchange program. Prof. Baniyas highlighted the important role of international student exchange programs and the positive impact it has for all students involved. In addition, it helps to foster relationships with other educational organizations and universities worldwide.
Prof. Baniyas noted that the level of interest in student exchange programs at UAEU has grown significantly, as there is a keen desire amongst the international youth to learn the Arabic language and other scientific courses as a result of the advanced curriculum offered at UAEU, along with the highly qualified teaching cadre, the support provided to international students and other facilitated methods encouraging students to be enrolled in this program annually. In addition, students tend to favour the national University and flagship institution of the nation. He declared, "The international students who come from different countries such as Germany, Japan, Russia, France, Spain and others, prefer to continue studying in an Arab country in order to elevate their performance in the Arabic language. The number of the international students accepting places is increasing annually which indicates the success of the program in achieving its goals.”
The German students, expressed their admiration and appreciation of the academic and scientific standing of UAEU in terms of the advanced curriculum, elite faculty members and comprehensive courses. Ms. Essia Sophia Ouertani, student, said, "I was studying Arabic in Germany and I came to UAE to study Arabic for one academic year. I don't know how I can describe this invaluable experience. It has enriched my knowledge of the language immensely because learning the Arabic language in an Arab country and environment is completely different from learning it in a foreign country."
Mr. Anton Bondarew and Ms. Katharina Sperling, students, described their experience of UAE society and the University atmosphere saying, "UAE society has a beautiful combination of traditions and customs exposing the genuine past and the present developments. The people are very friendly and willing to help. In addition, studying Arabic at UAEU has provided us with new experiences and developed our performance beyond our beliefs, which makes us wish we could stay longer.”
Dr. Taoufik Zoubeidi, Assistant Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education and the coordinator of the international students exchange programs said, "The student exchange program between UAEU and other universities started with short visits for students. The visits were limited to exploring and acquiring a taste of what the University had to offer. However, the programs are currently endorsed between UAEU and other universities as per mutual agreements. The students can now study courses and earn credits that can be transferred to their universities. The exchange program is not only a complementary element but also a vital part of the study requirements for the concerned students."
