AUS & L’ÉCOLE Partner to Connect Academia with Jewellery Industry

Demonstrating its dedication to international collaboration and transformative alliances, the American University of Sharjah (AUS) has forged a significant partnership with L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewellery Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) reflects a shared commitment to bridging academia and the jewellery industry, providing AUS students and faculty with exclusive access to expertise in jewellery culture. The collaboration focuses on three core areas: the history of jewellery, the world of gemstones, and the artistry of jewellery-making techniques.

Enriching Learning Through Hands-on Experiences

Through this initiative, AUS students will gain firsthand exposure to the jewellery industry by engaging in specialized courses, workshops, exhibitions, and networking events hosted by L’ÉCOLE Middle East. These opportunities will allow students to deepen their understanding of jewellery craftsmanship and its historical and cultural significance. Additionally, AUS faculty members will benefit from professional development programs and knowledge-sharing opportunities within L’ÉCOLE Middle East’s extensive global network.

Strengthening Academic and Industry Collaboration

This partnership goes beyond traditional learning, fostering academic cooperation through joint research initiatives, guest lectures, and mentorship programs. By co-hosting events and promoting industry-academia interactions, AUS and L’ÉCOLE Middle East aim to create a dynamic platform for innovation and education. Future initiatives will ensure continuous knowledge exchange, further enriching the academic and professional growth of AUS students and faculty.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, said: “This agreement with L’ÉCOLE Middle East aligns with our strategic vision of providing students with global learning experiences while ensuring our faculty remain at the forefront of industry knowledge and innovation. Partnerships like this reinforce AUS’ position as a hub where academic excellence intersects with industry leadership, empowering our students and faculty to shape the future of creative and cultural industries.”

Alessandro Maffi, President of Van Cleef & Arpels Middle East and India, said: “The alliance of two esteemed institutions is a testament to Van Cleef & Arpels’ values of transmission, providing access of the jewellery culture to the widest possible audience.”

Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East, added: "As 2025 is the UAE Year of Community, embracing this educational exchange exemplifies our commitment to fostering and engaging with different communities like higher education and research, to spread educational excellence and cultural collaboration. By bridging the gap between the academic world and the jewellery culture, we aim to inspire and empower the next generation of creatives, providing them with unparalleled access to knowledge and expertise in jewellery craftsmanship, art history and gemology."

AUS’ Commitment to Industry Partnerships

AUS has a strong legacy of forming strategic alliances with industry leaders, government entities, and academic institutions. These collaborations enhance its academic ecosystem, providing students and faculty with valuable opportunities for growth and real-world engagement. By integrating education with industry insights, AUS continues to empower its community to make meaningful contributions at regional and global levels.