In addition to staff exchanges, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) commits both universities to explore progression opportunities for students of CECOS University to undertake part of their studies in the UK.
There will also be exciting new opportunities for students and academics from Staffordshire and CECOS universities to collaborate virtually in the development of innovative new projects.
CECOS University is a private institution in the city of Peshawar which offers courses in Computer Science, Management Sciences, Architecture, Electrical, Civil and Mechanical Engineering as well as in Biotechnology, Pharmacy, and Allied Health Sciences. More than 3000 students are currently enrolled on its various undergraduate and graduate degree programmes.
Commenting on the MoU, Vice-Chancellor Professor Liz Barnes CBE, DL said: “We have a lot in common with CECOS which prides itself on its creativity, innovation, industry links and student employability.
“There is the potential for us to develop joint research projects. It is notable that in 2015, CECOS unveiled Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s first power plant that converts waste into energy and we have recently launched our Staffordshire Centre for Renewable and Sustainable Engineering.”
She added: “As modern, digitally-enabled universities, we will be exploring how we can share online learning and teaching materials as well as establishing a Virtual Incubation Centre which will support staff and students of both institutions to bring their ideas for new products to life.”
Sohail Qureshi, Vice-Chancellor of CECOS University, stated: “We are delighted to have entered into a formal relationship with Staffordshire University and immensely look forward to working with their team. We hope that this partnership results in true synergy between the two organisations and, in doing so, benefit members of our respective communities in a number of ways”.
In 1998, CECOS opened the CECOS London College of Information Technology and Management, to conduct split degree programmes – some of which are delivered under franchise with Staffordshire University. From September CECOS London will be delivering one of Staffordshire University’s newest awards BA (Hons) Business Management and Sustainability.
Professor Mark Mabey Principal of CECOS College London, stated: “Our partnership with Staffordshire University commenced in September 2020 with a top up degree in Business Management. This September we will also offer the full new degree BA (Hons) Business Management & Sustainability. We look forward to this new exciting partnership which includes CECOS University, Pakistan and provides more opportunities for student staff exchanges, progression and research.”