Exeter University approves deal with Saudi Arabia to train military officers and officials

A British university has secured a controversial partnership with Saudi Arabia to deliver a master’s degree in security and strategy to senior military and government officials at the National Defense University in Riyadh. The collaboration, approved despite ongoing human rights concerns over the Saudi government, could bring significant financial benefits to the institution. Critics have raised ethical questions about the deal, given the kingdom’s record on civil liberties and international relations. The move highlights the growing trend of Western universities engaging with foreign governments amid geopolitical and economic pressures.

In move that could generate millions, Exeter academics to deliver MA at National Defense University in RiyadhThe University of Exeter has approved plans for a “formal partnership” with Saudi Arabia to train senior military officers and government officials, despite long-held concerns about the Saudi government’s human rights record, the Guardian has learned.In a deal that could generate millions of pounds for the Russell Group university, Exeter academics will deliver an MA in applied security and strategy (also known as an MStrat) to a cohort at the National Defense University (NDU) in Riyadh. Continue reading...