AUS and Emirates Calcium Carbonate Factory Sign MoU to Advance Research, Industry Collaboration, and Student Development
In a major step toward strengthening ties between academia and industry, American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Emirates Calcium Carbonate Factory (ECCF) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to drive research collaboration, industry-integrated learning, and talent development in support of the UAE’s sustainable industrial growth ambitions.
The agreement, signed on October 30, 2025, by Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and Rushdi Saqqa, Managing Director and Partner of Emirates Calcium Carbonate Factory and its group of companies, establishes a comprehensive framework for cooperation in applied research, internships, scholarships, and executive education. Senior officials from both organizations attended the signing ceremony, held at AUS.
“This collaboration reflects AUS’ commitment to linking academic excellence and scientific exploration with real-world impact,” said Dr. Laursen. “Together with Emirates Calcium Carbonate Factory, we are expanding research horizons, empowering our students through meaningful industry experiences, and strengthening national capabilities in advanced materials and manufacturing. Partnerships like this ensure our students and researchers contribute directly to the UAE’s knowledge economy and industrial future.”
Under the MoU, AUS and ECCF will jointly explore research in calcium carbonate applications and advanced materials technologies, including projects through the AUS Materials Research Center. Both parties will also collaborate on scientific symposia and conferences in materials science and engineering to foster knowledge exchange and innovation.
“This partnership ensures innovation moves beyond the lab and into real industrial impact,” said Rushdi Saqqa. “By working with AUS, we’re supporting the UAE’s vision, advancing materials science, and investing in local talent to build a resilient, knowledge-driven, and globally competitive manufacturing sector.”
The collaboration also enhances the student learning experience by integrating real industrial challenges into academic coursework and senior capstone projects. Students will have opportunities for site visits to ECCF facilities, and ECCF experts will participate in guest lectures, mentorship programs, and technical seminars at AUS.
To strengthen career readiness, the MoU establishes structured internship programs aligned with ECCF’s operational needs and creates recruitment pathways for AUS graduates. The agreement also includes the development of custom executive education programs for ECCF professionals — covering technical, leadership, and lifelong learning modules — delivered through AUS’s professional education channels.
Through this partnership, AUS continues to build bridges between academic research and industrial innovation, fostering knowledge exchange, workforce development, and technological progress that directly support the UAE’s national priorities and industrial strategy.
