JMU signs MOU with Arab Academy for Science and Technology

James Madison University signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Arab Academy for Science, Technology and Maritime Transport, expanding its international partnerships in Egypt.

Leading the initiative are Dr. Ahmad Salman, a professor in the Information Technology program, and Dr. Samy El-Tawab, who serves as both a professor and the program's director.

The collaboration began shortly after JMU publicly announced its partnership with Alamein International University.

Dr. Sherin Youssef, head of the Computer Engineering Department, and Dr. Akram Soliman ElSelmy, dean of the College of Engineering and Technology at AASTMT, contacted Salman to learn more about the initiative and expressed interest in establishing a similar agreement. 

AASTMT brings additional scale and depth, with seven campuses and established Ph.D. programs. “That diversity of expertise and geography opens up even more possibilities for our students and faculty,” Salman said. “Their proactive and enthusiastic response, along with their strong academic foundation, made the partnership a promising fit.”

“We were impressed by their engineering facilities,” Salman said after a recent visit to AASTMT’s Alexandria campus. “The university has clearly prioritized creating a robust infrastructure that supports hands-on learning and innovation. The labs are well-equipped with advanced technology and resources, which we believe will greatly enhance students’ practical skills and prepare them for future challenges.” 

Students will also benefit from opportunities to study abroad, pursue dual degrees and engage in collaborative research or capstone projects. Faculty exchanges, co-teaching and joint research efforts will be key components of the partnership.

The collaboration has already sparked interest from faculty in JMU's Computer Science, Engineering, and Integrated Science and Technology programs. Faculty hope to establish a joint master’s program, expand international research efforts, and pursue collaborative grant proposals and publications.

“This agreement builds on our momentum in developing globally connected programs,” said Jeffrey Tang, interim dean of JMU’s College of Integrated Science and Engineering. “It aligns with our vision to offer students international learning experiences while also creating new opportunities for faculty collaboration and innovation.”

While the MOU was signed in May, the Memorandum of Agreement outlining specific activities is expected to be signed during AASTMT’s visit to JMU in August, officially launching the collaboration.

Pilot programs are expected to begin in the 2025-26 academic year.