Effat signs cooperation deal with Syracuse University

Effat University signed a cooperation deal with Syracuse University’s iSchool last week to develop its information systems and computer science programs, to help Saudi women become competitive in the global technology jobs market.
The Effat University delegation was led by Princess Lolowah Al-Faisal, vice chair of Effat University’s board of founders and board of trustees and general supervisor of the institution; and Haifa Jamal Al-Lail, president of Effat University.
Princess Lolowah said she was “thrilled” to have signed the agreement. “Effat University has a mission not only of providing students with the tools they need to succeed in the workplace, but with a sense of their place in a larger world.”
She said that students would become Effat ambassadors with a diverse learning experience. “Effat University believes that linking to global universities creates new opportunities for economic development and intercultural understanding between countries.
It is through global partnerships that students will graduate ready to compete and thrive in a global society.”
Al-Lail said the iSchool has been consulting with Effat for the past year, by providing an outside review of its information systems curriculum accredited by the National Commission for Academic Accreditation and Assessment (NCAAA).
She said this “long-term partnership addresses the requirements of the new digital world and digital generation.” The curriculum is aimed at developing young and old students to participate in the world of technology, she added.
Eric F. Spina, provost of Syracuse University, said: “The occasion represents a really proud moment for Syracuse University, not just for the iSchool.”
The iSchool’s Sarah Inoue, project manager for international development, said: “Based on the review of Effat’s curriculum this past year, it is clearly doing a great job educating in the information field, and is clearly committed to having these women become competitive in the marketplace. Based on their education, Saudi women would be able to compete globally for jobs with any graduate from any other university.”