Building upon the successful implementation of a Memorandum of Understanding and a series of Erasmus+ KA171 staff mobilities since 2022, UCLan Cyprus was delighted to continue its vibrant academic collaboration with the American University in the Emirates (AUE) in Dubai throughout the first quarter of 2025.
In January 2025, Dr Panagiotis Kontakos, Assistant Professor in International Business, Deputy Dean of the School of Business and Management and Chair of the Innovation and Enterprise sub-Committee at UCLan Cyprus, visited AUE as part of the ongoing Erasmus+ Inter-Institutional Agreement. During his week-long stay, Dr Kontakos delivered engaging guest lectures on Global Risk Management, Global Investments, and Human Resource Management. His sessions sparked meaningful discussions among students and faculty, delving into emerging regional dynamics and future-facing trends in business and security education.
In addition to his lectures, Dr Kontakos held high-level academic meetings with prominent members of the AUE community, including Professor Muthanna Abdul Razzaq, President of AUE, and Professor Abhilasha Singh, former Vice President for Academic Affairs. The visit also enabled rich dialogues with academic colleagues from both the College of Security and Global Studies and the College of Business Administration. These interactions explored areas of mutual interest such as digital transformation, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in administration and education, and the broader implications of technological innovation on governance and business practice.
The collaboration continued in March 2025, when UCLan Cyprus had the honour of welcoming from AUE, Dr Gerasimos Rodotheatos, Assistant Professor of International Law and Security and Chair of the Security and Strategic Studies Program. Dr. Rodotheatos delivered an insightful and thought-provoking guest lecture to Business Administration students on Environmental Stewardship in the City of Dubai. His session extended beyond environmental policy frameworks to address the interplay of sustainability, governance, and economic strategy in one of the world’s most innovative urban environments. He also lectured to undergraduate and graduate students at the School of Law on an array of topics including law & technology, territorial sovereignty and outer space arbitration. Dr. Gerasimos held high-level meetings at the School of Law with Prof. Stéphanie Laulhé Shaelou, Professor of European Law and Reform and Head of the School, as well as met with many colleagues across the School of Law and the School of Business and Management. His contribution significantly enhanced the cross-disciplinary learning experience and reinforced the commitment of both institutions to global citizenship and sustainability.
These reciprocal academic exchanges underscore the enduring strength and impact of the Erasmus+ KA171 partnership between UCLan Cyprus and AUE. As both institutions look ahead to the next phase of collaboration, special emphasis will be placed on curriculum innovation and research partnerships in the areas of Artificial Intelligence, law, business strategy, environmental sustainability, security and regional development.
UCLan Cyprus expresses its sincere gratitude to all participating academic staff and the leadership teams at both universities for their continuous support in advancing this meaningful partnership.
Source: UCLan Cyprus | Discover | Happenings | Highlights (https://tinyurl.com/4dhzfjw4)