President of the University of Dubai (UD) Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki visited the University of Louisville (UofL) and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to discuss possible mutual plans between both parties and collaborate on engineering-focused research in addition to other fields of studies in business. He signed the MoU with the President of the University of Louisville Neeli Bendapudi and Provost Beth Boehm.

Dr. Al Bastaki highlighted the significance of this MoU in enhancing the research skills among faculty members and students. He also discussed with UofL administrators about a possible cooperation that would enable students from both universities to collaborate and perform research activities together.

Bendapudi hoped that the agreement would lead to more study abroad opportunities for UofL students. ìPeopleís minds change when they travel,î she noted.

During the signing ceremony, Bendapudi said that they will make sure UD students have a rich experience.

The official newsletter of UoFL published an article about Dr. Al Bastakiís visit stating that both universities are eager to give students better opportunities to explore industries abroad.

The memorandum was also signed by Emmanuel Collins, dean of the J.B. Speed School of Engineering. The agreement will be in effect for five years.

During his tour around the campus, Dr. Al Bastaki met the deans of business and medical schools as well as the faculty of Bioengineering, Neurological Surgery, Ophthalmology, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Nursing, Robotics, Chemical Engineering, Prototype Center and research center.

Dr. Al Bastaki, who was impressed with UofLís research centers, said that UofL is one of the top universities in Biomedical Engineering academically, industry and focused-research.  The Biomedical Engineering department receives million dollars in the fields of research which headed by Dr. Ayman Al Baz. He added: ìI was impressed with such team members that are producing products to be used in the universityís hospitals and sold to industry such as IBM and GE. In addition, the Biomedical Engineering Department owns more than 20 patents and 40 more submitted.