Laidlaw Foundation And NYU Abu Dhabi Collaborate To Cultivate Future Global Leaders

New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has secured a significant financial commitment from the Laidlaw Foundation, exceeding US$1 million. This funding will establish a pioneering partnership in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). The Laidlaw Scholars Programme at NYUAD aims to nurture future global leaders through a unique educational experience.

The programme is set to welcome its inaugural group of students in spring 2026. It offers undergraduates a two-year immersive journey that combines leadership training, experiential research projects, and community-based work experiences. This comprehensive approach is designed to make a tangible impact in the real world. Participants will also become part of an extensive network of over 2,500 Laidlaw Scholars from top institutions worldwide.

NYUAD's inclusion in the Laidlaw Scholars Network marks a first for the MENA region. This network consists of 20 prestigious universities across Europe, North America, and Asia. Notable members include the University of Oxford, London School of Economics, Imperial College, Columbia University, Cornell University, Brown University, and the University of Hong Kong.

Susanna Kempe, CEO of the Laidlaw Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: "Partnering with the exceptional NYU Abu Dhabi enables us to extend the geographical reach, cultural richness, and global impact of the Laidlaw leadership and research scholarship programme." Her statement highlights the strategic importance of this partnership in expanding the programme's influence.

Fabio Piano, Vice Chancellor of NYU Abu Dhabi, shared his thoughts on this collaboration: "We are honoured to partner with the Laidlaw Foundation in our shared mission to build a diverse and inclusive community of ethical leaders." He further emphasised that this initiative aligns with their goal to empower young individuals from various backgrounds to contribute positively to global society.

This partnership not only enhances NYUAD's educational offerings but also reinforces its commitment to fostering leadership skills among students. By joining forces with the Laidlaw Foundation, NYUAD aims to prepare students to lead with purpose and integrity in an increasingly interconnected world.

The collaboration between NYUAD and the Laidlaw Foundation represents a significant step forward in leadership education within the MENA region. Through this initiative, both organisations aim to cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped with the skills necessary for making meaningful contributions on a global scale.

With inputs from WAM