UM opens doors to more global learning

A University of Malta academic played a key role in bringing the new student exchange agreement with Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) to life during the Malta–UAE Dialogues on Diplomacy and Archives, held on 2 February 2026.

The event marked the celebration of a recently-signed joint agreement promoting international mobility and academic exchange between Maltese and Emirati students, particularly in records management and archival studies.

Prof. Charles Farrugia, Head of Library Information and Archive Sciences at the University of Malta and National Archivist & CEO of the National Archives of Malta, contributed to the ceremony and delivered a lecture exploring how Malta’s rich archival heritage, shaped by centuries of Mediterranean, Arabian, European, and global connections, offers valuable insights into diplomacy, governance, and cross-cultural exchange that resonate strongly in the UAE context.

Introduced by Her Excellency Maria Camilleri Calleja, Ambassador of Malta to the UAE, the event welcomed SUAD students and faculty, highlighting new academic opportunities created by the partnership.

“I see student exchange programmes as one of the most meaningful ways universities can invest in their communities. These partnerships open doors for students and faculty to experience new academic cultures, broaden their perspectives, and build lasting international networks. Beyond mobility, they strengthen collaboration between institutions, encourage the sharing of expertise, and inspire innovation in teaching and research. Ultimately, they help prepare our students to succeed in a globally-connected world”, commented Ms Stefania Agius Fabri, Director of the International Office at the University of Malta.

Professor Farrugia’s continued guest lectures at SUAD this week further demonstrate how academic leadership is strengthening collaboration, transforming a formal agreement into active knowledge exchange, student engagement, and long-term cooperation between the two institutions.