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Cambridge yesterday sparked controversy after it emerged it is negotiating with United Arab Emirates over a potential £400million partnership.
The proposed UAE-Cambridge Innovation Institute would be a collaboration between the university and 'several educational, governmental and corporate partners' in the UAE.
But the Emirates has faced criticism around human rights issues – including its treatment of foreign nationals.
The University and College Union (UCU), which represents academics and support staff, accused the UAE of attempting to 'launder its reputation' and said it would be 'shameful' if Cambridge were 'willing to be used in this way'.
The university has acknowledged there are risks associated with such a project, including 'reputation' and a 'values gap' between the UK and UAE, according to documents obtained by Cambridge's student newspaper Varsity.
Cambridge yesterday sparked controversy after it emerged it is negotiating with United Arab Emirates over a potential £400million partnership
They also highlight the 'potential burden' a large partnership could place on parts of the university as well as the possible impact on 'academic freedom and institutional autonomy'.
The collaboration would seek to strengthen global understanding of Islamic art and culture, as well
