American University of Sharjah (AUS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Al Ain-based MADAR International School on January 22, 2013. The MoU aims to provide a framework of cooperation and enable future partnership between the two educational institutions.

The partnership is part of the Sharakah program, a strategic initiative by the Office of Enrollment Management at AUS to promote sustainable partnerships with selected schools from across the United Arab Emirates.

"We wish to facilitate a smooth transfer of your students to AUS and ensure that they become an integral part of our community," said Dr. Peter Heath, Chancellor of AUS. "Our plan is to continue this cooperation and to improve the services that the university offers to your students. Our alumni are very well equipped and satisfied with the education and qualifications offered by AUS, and we wish to see your students thrive and grow with us," he added.

The agreement was signed by Ali Shuhaimy, Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management at AUS, and Mohammed Al Adwan, Director of MADAR International School.

"I am looking forward to continuing our fruitful relationship in the future," said Shuhaimy, on the occasion. "This agreement is aimed at building a framework to help students easily transition from school to university. I am happy to strengthen our relationship and look forward to capitalizing on our partnership," he added.

In his remarks, Mohammed Al Adwan said "I appreciate having the chance of entering into this partnership with your university. Personally, I am an admirer of AUS and will definitely advise our students to visit the university to see the campus and the facilities for themselves. We hope this strategic partnership will enable them to make a smooth transition from our school to your university." 

The agreement will include AUS offering workshops to teachers and students; partial scholarships to distinguished students selected from lists provided by the school, patronage of selected research, university preparation courses as well as SAT and TOEFL preparation courses to students from the partner school, cultural, social and sporting activities and events organized by the school. 

Also present at the signing ceremony were Dr. Thomas Hochstettler, Provost; Salem Al Qaseer, Vice Chancellor of Public Affairs; AUS deans and other senior officials from AUS and MADAR International School.