World News
University of Exeter approves agreement to train Saudi military officers and officials
Academic staff will deliver a security and strategy master's degree in Riyadh under a deal criticized by the university union.
The short version
- The University of Exeter has approved a confidential partnership to deliver a master's program in applied security and strategy at the National Defense University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
- Starting in the 2026-27 academic year, Exeter staff will train about 20 senior Saudi military officers and government officials annually over three years.
- The University and College Union criticized the agreement over Saudi Arabia's human rights record as the university simultaneously pursues 150 job cuts.
- Exeter representatives defended the deal, stating that professional military education aligns with long-standing UK defence relationships and undergoes academic and ethical vetting.
Key facts
- The University of Exeter Council approved a partnership with Saudi Arabia's National Defense University in February, followed by Senate endorsement in March.[The Guardian]
- Exeter academics are scheduled to deliver an MA in applied security and strategy to approximately 20 students per year over a three-year period beginning in 2026-27.[The Guardian]
- The Exeter branch of the University and College Union criticized the agreement, linking its announcement to university plans to cut 150 jobs, primarily in the humanities and social sciences.[The Guardian]
- A spokesperson for Exeter University noted that professional military education forms a standard part of the UK's defence partnership with Saudi Arabia and that all proposals undergo separate academic and ethical vetting.[The Guardian]
What remains uncertain
- The exact financial value of the contract has not been publicly detailed, though reported estimates suggest it could generate millions of pounds.[The Guardian]