American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Ithra Dubai have signed an agreement to conduct a sponsored studio as an extension to the design works for Ithra Dubai's mixed-use development, One Za'abeel. The sponsored studio creates a platform through which students gain first-hand experience in architecture and design by working in parallel with a live project.

This academic year, 16 students at the university's College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD), taught by Assistant Professor George Newlands, will develop design proposals while working in CAAD's state-of-the-art facilities. This studio, made possible by the generous support of the University's corporate partners, will allow students to benefit from guest speakers, distinguished visiting critics, site visits, and field trips, as well as the use of the advanced computer modelling and digital fabrication lab facilities on campus.

AUS Executive Director of Advancement Charles A. Diab said, "While private companies and academic institutions often perceive themselves as operating in two unconnected worlds, AUS is seeking to build bridges with industry by offering mutually beneficial partnerships that will solve real world challenges. These will not only help the organizations concerned, but add value to society."

As proposed by CAAD, in the Fall semester, students will generate design proposals for two bridges connecting One Za'abeel to the neighbouring Za'abeel Park and the World Trade Centre. Assignments for the subsequent semesters, will be scheduled and agreed upon thereafter.   

AUS Dean of Architecture, Art and Design, Dr. Varkki Pallathucheril, welcomed the agreement. "We are fortunate to have Ithra Dubai as our partner, and I look forward to strengthening this relationship. Ithra Dubai's generosity makes possible a uniquely valuable learning opportunity for our students and I expect they will take full advantage of it. They will emerge from this studio with insights and skills they need to succeed in their careers once they graduate."

"The partnership with the American University of Sharjah aligns well with our values. We marshal our forces to encourage young talent and to create unique, real-world opportunities for them in the local community," said Issam Galadari, Director and CEO of Ithra Dubai. "We value, and are committed to assist local educational establishments in providing the type of facility that will make meaningful contributions to community," he added..