The University of Jordan (UJ) has signed a package of agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with leading healthcare and pharmaceutical partners to expand student training, support applied research and better align academic programmes with labour-market needs.
The agreements were signed at the University’s School of Pharmacy during an event titled “Strengthening Partnerships and Supporting Excellence,” attended by UJ vice presidents and several deans, along with representatives of the King Hussein Cancer Center (KHCC), Dar Aldawa Development & Investment Co., the Jordanian Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Co. (JPM) and the Arab Drug Store Co. (ADS).
UJ president Prof. Nathir Obeidat said the School of Pharmacy is increasingly serving as a bridge between academia and the pharmaceutical sector, noting that collaboration and the exchange of expertise have become key drivers of innovation and development.
Dean of the School of Pharmacy Prof. Rula Darwish said the agreements reflect a long-term approach to building strategic partnerships that strengthen teaching, research and community engagement, while enhancing students’ practical training and employability.
Under the package, UJ signed cooperation agreements with Dar Aldawa and JPM focusing on training placements, coordination and supervision mechanisms, and joint work on applied studies. Additional activities will be implemented through separate written arrangements.
UJ also signed a training agreement with KHCC under a Postgraduate Year One (PGY1) pharmacy residency programme, setting out the programme structure, timelines and selection process in line with relevant accreditation requirements.
In addition, the School of Pharmacy signed an MoU with ADS to provide structured practical training for students due to graduate from the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) and Pharmacy programmes. The agreement sets out defined training cycles, hands-on experience and follow-up mechanisms to ensure learning objectives are met.
The partnerships will also support community-based training placements, alongside guest lectures and career-preparedness activities.
Following the signing ceremony, Obeidat inaugurated a new computer laboratory for postgraduate students at the School of Pharmacy. The facility was equipped with support from ADS as part of efforts to strengthen digital learning and postgraduate research.
Darwish added that the University is working with strategic partners on a proposed “4+1” programme model to give high-achieving students the opportunity to complete an advanced academic year or specialised training with partner institutions locally and internationally.
The event also highlighted student achievements in scientific and professional competitions in Jordan and abroad, and concluded with recognition of distinguished faculty members and students.