The University of Exeter approves a deal with Saudi Arabia to train senior military officers and government officials through a master’s programme delivered in Riyadh. The reported partnership will involve Exeter academics delivering an MA in applied security and strategy, also described as an MStrat, to a cohort at Saudi Arabia’s National Defense University.
The arrangement is described as a “formal partnership” and is expected to generate significant income for the university, with one outlet noting potential millions of pounds. The reporting also highlights that the decision comes despite longstanding concerns about Saudi Arabia’s human-rights record. Other coverage focuses on the approval itself and the structure of the proposed training, without adding contrasting details about the scope or governance of the programme.
Overall, the outlets agree on what Exeter is approving and the basic purpose and location of the training. They differ mainly in emphasis, with some attention on financial implications and on human-rights concerns associated with the Saudi partner.
