Paraguay’s Ministry of Education and Sciences (MEC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Umm Al Quwain University (UAQU) in the United Arab Emirates. This new partnership aims to enhance academic and scientific cooperation between the two nations. As a significant first step, the agreement provides three full university scholarships for Paraguayan students to pursue undergraduate degree programmes commencing in 2027.
The accord represents a major development in international educational relations for Paraguay, opening new pathways for students seeking to study abroad in a globally competitive environment.
Details of the full university scholarships
The agreement was formally signed by Carolin Konther López, the Paraguayan ambassador to the United Arab Emirates, and Dr Hany Abdelrahman Bakr, the Vice-Chancellor of UAQU. Under the terms of the four-year memorandum, the Ministry of Education and Sciences will be responsible for nominating three different beneficiaries each academic year or term. These selected students will enrol in four-year degree programmes, with the duration of the agreement matching the length of the academic courses.
To retain their scholarship for the full duration of their studies, students must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher. This academic standard is the minimum graduation requirement established by the UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR). Therefore, this stipulation ensures that the beneficiaries maintain a consistent level of academic performance throughout their time at the university, reflecting the high standards of the programme.
Comprehensive financial support
The full university scholarships are designed to be fully comprehensive, removing financial barriers for the selected Paraguayan students. The Memorandum of Understanding clearly stipulates that the three students will be exempt from all registration, admission, and application fees.
Furthermore, no other administrative charges will be applied, ensuring a transparent and straightforward process. In addition to covering academic costs, the agreement includes provisions for free accommodation within the university campus. This support ensures that students have a stable and secure living environment, allowing them to focus entirely on their studies.
Fostering international research collaboration
Beyond the student scholarships, the agreement outlines a second key area of cooperation focused on academic research. Umm Al Quwain University has committed to actively promoting and seeking research collaborations. These partnerships will connect its professors and researchers with academics from universities in Paraguay. The primary objective of this initiative is to develop significant and high-impact research projects that can produce meaningful outcomes and contribute to the global body of knowledge.
This collaborative effort aims to create a diverse and dynamic learning environment that enriches the academic experiences of all participants. Consequently, it is expected to foster greater knowledge production and support the ongoing professional development of both students and established researchers in Paraguay and the UAE. This exchange of ideas and expertise is fundamental to building lasting institutional relationships.
By providing these academic opportunities, the initiative helps to expand the horizons for young people and students across Paraguay. It actively promotes their professional growth and facilitates their integration into globally recognised academic environments. Ultimately, this prepares them for success in an increasingly interconnected world and equips them with the skills needed to contribute to Paraguay’s national development upon their return.
Also read: Paraguayan Students In Abu Dhabi: Bridging Cultures In The Middle East.
