To pave the way for an exchange of research and educational opportunities, Penn State's Dickinson School of Law and the Dubai Judicial Institute signed a collaboration agreement. Jamal Al Sumaiti, director general of Dubai Judicial Institute and Philip J. McConnaughay, dean and Donald J. Farage Professor of Law and International Affairs, signed the agreement on July 8.
"The work of the Dubai Judicial Institute to educate and train judges and lawyers complements Penn State Law’s initiatives at the forefront of transnational legal research and education,” said McConnaughay, “We believe both the Institute and the Law School will benefit immensely from this relationship."
The two institutions plan to exchange scholars, hold meetings and symposia, and provide research, educational and practice opportunities for students from Penn State Law as well as faculty in Dubai. McConnaughay explained that the agreement is part of an ongoing strategy to create opportunities for students who will practice law in an increasingly global setting.
"For example, Penn State Law students and faculty will be able to create a study visit to the DJI to learn about the law and legal institutions of the UAE and to experience a unique commercial hub in the Middle East," he said.
Penn State' Law School shares an integrated curriculum and faculty with the School of International Affairs along with an LL.M. program that has been serving the international legal community for more than 40 years.
Al Sumaiti said that the agreement supports the long-term objectives of the Dubai Judicial Institute.
"Our emphasis is on building a legal culture, research, training and programs for the development of human resources under the best international practices, and we are pleased that Penn State Law will be a part of this initiative," he said.