Cambridge University's Judge Business School is pursuing a collaboration with Saudi Arabia's defence ministry, offering leadership development and innovation management services, despite concerns over the kingdom's human rights record and climate stance. The proposal, approved by Cambridge's leadership, has drawn sharp criticism from senior academics who call it a betrayal of the university's values.
Proposal Details
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) aims to establish preliminary goals for executive education, innovation management, leadership development, and healthcare administration strategies, exclusively with the civilian administration of the Saudi defence ministry. The initiative was introduced by the UK Ministry of Defence.
University Response
Cambridge University's press office declined to comment, redirecting inquiries to the business school. A spokesperson for Judge Business School stated that no MoU has been signed yet. However, school officials confirmed to Cambridge's committee on benefactions and external and legal affairs that they sought permission to enter into such an agreement.
The benefactions committee, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Professor Deborah Prentice, approved the request by a majority vote in January. The committee deemed the agreement acceptable in principle but required consultation on individual contracts.
Concerns Raised
Confidential minutes reveal committee members expressed worries about Saudi Arabia's human rights record and climate change policies, as well as the ability to safeguard academic freedoms for staff. A senior academic on Cambridge's university council described the proposal as "horrifying" and a betrayal of the university's commitment to freedom of thought and expression.
David Whitaker, the business school's director of alumni relations, argued that the proposal aligns with the university's mission to benefit society and is strategically aligned with UK government interests. He noted that mitigations include a civilian-only scope and potential contracting through Saudi's Institute of Public Administration.
Student Opposition
Darragh O'Reilly, a student representative on the governing council, called the deal a serious error of judgment, warning that Cambridge's democratic checks and balances are on the verge of collapse. He expressed concern over the university regulator's oversight and an increasingly uncomfortable atmosphere in council meetings.
UK universities often sell consultancy and training to foreign governments, but the Saudi defence ministry's involvement in regional conflicts, including in Iran and Yemen, has heightened alarm. The Judge Business School's executive MBA costs £98,000, while a global executive MBA is priced at £107,000.
