Arqaam Capital and Al Akhawayn University Launch Global Business Education Initiative

Monday, February 14, 2011

– Course based on Arab Capital Markets; developed in conjunction with Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, Morocco

– Highlights company’s commitment to foster an innovation economy in the region

Dubai headquartered investment bank, Arqaam Capital, today announced the launch of a finance colloquium for undergraduate and graduate students at the Al Akhawayn University School of Business Administration in Ifrane, Morocco. Specially designed to equip students in the Arab world with practical skills to increase their employment prospects, this programme primarily focuses on regional equity and credit markets, derivative financial markets, interest rates, and financial risk management.

Since practical application is critical to establishing robust and vibrant innovation economies, students will be judged on their coursework and winners become eligible for a six week internship at the Arqaam Capital offices. Modules will commence on February 12^th with the final module delivered on April 23^rd. Winners will be announced on April 30^th.

“The Arab World is developing rapidly and it is imperative that students have the tools for developing skills needed in the 21st century. As part our investments into human capital in the region, we will work closely with regional universities to assist them develop and enhance education systems. This is part of our initiative to drive educational transformation in the region and we are keen to support universities and students integrate practical business acumen into the classroom,” said Riad Meliti, CEO, Arqaam Capital.

Arqaam Capital and Al Akhawayn University signed a Memorandum of Understanding in the University campus in Ifrane on February 11th. The signing took place under the patronage of Al Akhawayn University President Driss Ouaouicha, and Riad Meliti, CEO, Arqaam Capital, and was witnessed by key officials from both sides.

Commenting on the benefits of the agreement, Al Akhawayn University President Driss Ouaouicha said: “We look forward to working with Arqaam Capital in advancing our students’ ability to explore the many opportunities in global finance, economics, and business. Through this partnership, Al Akhawayn University will also contribute to enhancing research and business practices in Morocco.”

Arqaam Capital will also provide consulting to support the university’s business education initiatives like co-supervising joint research projects and theses, co-organising conferences designed for CFOs, finance directors and financial services professionals generally, with a specific focus on the asset management space. Arqaam will also support the creation of a research centre at Al Akhawayn University to advance research and knowledge creation as well as sharing practical experience about the financial markets in Morocco and the MENA region.

“For the Arab world to become truly competitive, we have to tackle regional issues with a multifaceted approach,” Meliti explained. “By developing education and providing platforms for enhanced innovation and opportunities for research we believe the youth of today will be able to make a positive contribution towards regional economic development. We believe this region has tremendous potential and look forward to building further successful collaborations.”

-ENDS-