New York University Abu Dhabi Partners with Laidlaw Foundation to Launch Landmark Scholars Program
In a significant development in higher education, New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has secured a commitment exceeding US million from the Laidlaw Foundation to inaugurate the Laidlaw Scholars Program, heralding the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This innovative collaboration aims to cultivate the next generation of global leaders through a program designed to blend academic rigor with experiential learning and leadership training.
Set to commence its inaugural cohort in the spring of 2026, the Laidlaw Scholars Program promises an extensive two-year curriculum tailored for selected undergraduate students. Participants will engage in leadership development workshops, embark on experiential research projects, and gain practical community-based work experience. The program is crafted not merely as an academic pursuit but as a comprehensive initiative aimed at fostering real-world impact. Scholars will also connect with a global network comprising over 2,500 individuals from prestigious institutions worldwide, thereby enriching their perspectives and fostering international cooperation.
Fabio Piano, Vice Chancellor of NYU Abu Dhabi, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “We are honored to partner with the Laidlaw Foundation in our shared mission to build a diverse and inclusive community of ethical leaders. This collaboration reflects our commitment to empowering young individuals from all backgrounds to unite in building a global society, preparing them to lead with purpose and integrity. We are proud of our partnership with the Laidlaw Foundation and the lasting impact we will make together.”
This initiative resonates deeply within the current educational landscape, where fostering ethical leadership and social responsibility is more crucial than ever. The Laidlaw Foundation, known for its dedication to nurturing leadership potential, recognizes the merit of collaborating with NYUAD, a university that places a strong emphasis on academic diversity and inclusion. Susanna Kempe, the CEO of the Laidlaw Foundation, articulated the foundation’s vision, saying, “Partnering with the exceptional NYU Abu Dhabi enables us to extend the geographical reach, cultural richness, and global impact of the Laidlaw leadership and research scholarship program. Thanks to Vice Chancellor Fabio Piano and his dedicated team, we look forward to supporting more extraordinary Scholars to become good leaders and wise thinkers.”
NYUAD’s inclusion in the Laidlaw Scholars Network is noteworthy, as it marks the first university in the MENA region to join this esteemed collective. The network boasts 20 leading universities across Europe, North America, and Asia, including world-renowned institutions such as the University of Oxford, the London School of Economics, Columbia University, and Brown University. This affiliation opens up unique avenues for collaboration and innovation, providing NYUAD’s undergraduate students and faculty members with enhanced opportunities to engage with peers from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds.
The Laidlaw Scholars Program aligns perfectly with NYUAD’s mission of fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and social responsibility, elements that are increasingly becoming indispensable in today’s interconnected world. By nurturing scholars who are not only academically accomplished but also socially aware and ethically grounded, NYUAD and the Laidlaw Foundation are taking proactive steps to shape a more inclusive and responsible future.
Moreover, the upcoming launch of this program coincides with a broader movement in academia to reevaluate educational paradigms in light of contemporary global challenges. Such initiatives not only empower students but also have the potential to contribute positively to their communities. The emphasis on leadership and community service inherent in the Laidlaw program dovetails with the growing recognition that today’s leaders must be equipped with the tools to navigate complex societal issues.
As the world grapples with challenges that transcend borders—such as climate change, social inequality, and global health crises—educational institutions play a pivotal role in shaping the future leaders who will be called upon to address these issues. Collaborative programs like the Laidlaw Scholars Program are essential in preparing students to engage with these challenges thoughtfully and responsibly, fostering a generation capable of making impactful decisions based on integrity and ethical considerations.
In conclusion, the partnership between NYUAD and the Laidlaw Foundation exemplifies a forward-thinking approach within higher education, underlining a commitment to developing leaders who are not only equipped with knowledge but also possess the ethical framework necessary to operate in an increasingly complex and interconnected global landscape.
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