Amman: The President of the University of Jordan Nazir Obeidat and Executive Director of the International Growth Centre at the London School of Economics and Political Science Jonathan Leape have signed a memorandum of understanding focused on scientific research.

According to Jordan News Agency, the agreement seeks to enhance academic collaboration, advance scientific research, and leverage these advancements to support public policy development. Obeidat emphasized that the partnership aims to address critical issues within academia, particularly the synergy between higher education, the labour market, and national policymaking. He highlighted ongoing updates to academic programs at the university, designed to better equip students with essential language and digital skills.

Obeidat introduced a new "Workplace Readiness" course, now mandatory for all undergraduate students, which aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and market demands. On the other hand, Leape expressed his satisfaction with signing the Centre's first official memorandum of understanding in Jordan, recognizing the University of Jordan as a significant regional academic partner.

Leape explained that the agreement focuses on establishing a robust connection between scientific research and policymaking, thereby contributing to the development of evidence-based policies across crucial sectors. He outlined that the partnership rests on four main pillars: conducting policy-relevant scientific research, promoting knowledge exchange between local and international researchers, enhancing the research capacity of doctoral students and emerging scholars, and strengthening the relationship between academia and government to support national development.

Salma Shaheen, the representative of the International Growth Centre in Jordan, conveyed optimism regarding the collaboration's potential with the University of Jordan. She mentioned that the memorandum's signing signifies the start of a sustained effort rooted in transparency and the integration of scientific research with decision-making processes.

Under this agreement, both parties will work together on implementing research projects, develop competitive fellowship programs to support young researchers, organize discussion panels and workshops with policymakers, and involve students in research and training activities under joint academic supervision.