ASU Delegation Strengthens Partnership During Visit to London South Bank University

A delegation from Applied Science University (ASU) visited its partner university, London South Bank University (LSBU), in the UK from April 24 to 26, 2023.

The visit aimed to attend the second ASU – LSBU Partnership Management Board meeting on April 24, held in a hybrid format with more colleagues attending virtually. The first meeting took place on ASU’s campus in October 2022.

ASU’s delegation included Prof. Waheeb Al Khaja, Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof. Ammar Kaka, President of ASU, Prof. Hatem Masri, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Development, Mr. Abdullah Al Khaja, President’s Advisor for Follow Up Affairs and Director of Administration and Finance, and Ms. Diana El Hageova, Manager of the International Partnerships Office.

ASU and LSBU’s partnership has grown since 2014 and ASU now offers five programmes validated by LSBU. The board meeting allowed ASU and LSBU management and academics to discuss strategic updates, partnership management, development areas and operational management of current and future courses.

Beyond the board meeting, activities included:

• A tour of the LSBU’s recently renovated Hub, a student space with library, lecture halls, sports center, exhibition space, computer labs, study rooms, café and lounge.
• A visit to the London South Bank Technical College (LSBTC) and a tour of its facilities. The LSBTC offers vocational and technical programmes in STEAM fields in a workplace setting. A meeting discussed collaboration with the Principal and Group Director of Apprenticeships.
• A meeting with LSBU’s Pro Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation and team to develop collaboration on research, knowledge transfer and enterprise.

Overall, the visit strengthened the partnership by expanding academic offerings, reinforcing research and knowledge transfer collaboration, and leveraging enterprise and innovation. Both parties explored various ways to enhance the partnership in education, research, and societal engagement.

The visit culminated in productive discussions on future collaboration and partnerships between the two institutions. ASU and LSBU look forward to building on this momentum through future interactions and exchanges.