Cambridge University seeks deal with Saudi defence ministry despite rights concerns
Summary
Cambridge University’s business school is planning to make a deal with Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry to provide training in leadership and innovation. This plan has raised concerns because of Saudi Arabia’s record on human rights and climate change. The university’s committee approved the idea but expressed worries about protecting academic freedom and managing the university’s reputation.Key Facts
- Cambridge Judge Business School wants to create a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabia’s defence ministry.
- The planned deal involves training in executive education, innovation management, leadership, and healthcare administration.
- The UK Ministry of Defence initially introduced the idea.
- Cambridge’s benefactions committee approved the proposal but wants to review individual contracts before they are signed.
- Committee members worried about Saudi Arabia’s human rights record and climate change policies.
- Some academics called the deal a betrayal of Cambridge’s commitment to freedom of expression.
- The school said the deal would focus only on the civilian part of the Saudi defence ministry.
- UK universities often sell consultancy and training services to foreign governments, sometimes for millions of pounds.
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