Michigan State Alumnus comes home to support Dubai school

Media Release

Dubai, Aug 21: Michigan State University opened its doors to its first batch of students and future graduating class of 2012 this morning at the Dubai International Academic City. The event marks the first of many initiatives taken on by American universities to establish a strong presence in the Middle-Eastern region.

The inauguration was organized by Dr. Brendan Mullan, Executive Director of Michigan State Dubai as well as his fastidious and gallant staff. Also in attendance was the university’s distinguished faculty as well as representatives of TECOM Investments, and Dubai Knowledge Village.

The function was presided over by Dr. Ayoub Kazim, Executive Director of Dubai Knowledge Village and Dubai International Academic City. Furthermore, in special support of this event was Michigan State University Alumnus, Alister J. Aranha who said a few words on behalf of his alma mater.   “My time at Michigan State University was one of educational empowerment and character development. Like my parents, this school created value in my life and helped me evolve into a global citizen. And now they are here in Dubai to do the same so that you can go on to add-value to your family, your professions and your country.”  said Aliester

Alister also spoke of Dubai’s accelerated advancement into the realms of higher education as well as integrated human resource development:

“His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum has called for the development of all knowledge and human resource sectors in Dubai and their cohesiveness with international standards and global practices. Simply said, the UAE is to become a knowledge based economy; a developing educational economy, for which we are responsible.”

“I stand here in great envy of you because the study and work you will conduct in your respective fields over the next four years and beyond will serve in propelling this country to achieve the incredible visions set forth by its founders.”  Alister then imparted his best wishes to the inaugural class

Alister J. Aranha holds two honors bachelor’s degrees from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan and is a qualified MBA graduate from the University of Massachusetts, Boston.  He now holds the position of Management Consultant at his family’s Dubai-based company Reliant Group which is involved in construction and engineering has been awarded projects inclusive of the Emirates Towers as well as the Burj Dubai.

Alister also bears a seasoned background in educational consultancy in the United States and will continue his work here in the United Arab Emirates.