On May 3, 2008, a memorandum of understanding between the International Space University, with its central campus in France, and Alfaisal University in Riyadh, was signed by the two university presidents.  President Michael Simpson of ISU visited Riyadh for the signing with Acting President Alan Goodridge of Alfaisal University.   

ISU President Michael Simpson with several UPP students and faculty

Following the signing ceremony, President Simpson visited the UPP to talk with students and faculty about ISU, the future of space exploration, and the multi-disciplinary reliance of space missions.  Several students indicated interest in learning more about the graduate programs of ISU and about the opportunities that the alliance between ISU and Alfaisal University will bring to them as students of Alfaisal University.  

Among the opportunities the affiliation will bring to both universities are cooperation in organizing joint conferences, seminars, and short courses; research opportunities; exchange of faculty; transfer of course credit; and student internships.  The UPP looks forward to exposing its current and future students to the remarkable resources and opportunities the affiliation brings to the scientific and educational communities in Saudi Arabia.

Following President Simpson’s talk, Jonathan Freeland, UPP English language teacher, stated, “Just wanted to comment that Dr. Simpson was impressive and I think the students were engaged and his talk sparked some interest. This kind of partnership will only attract and strengthen the UPP and Alfaisal as a cutting edge institution.”