Kuwait explores student exchange with top Portuguese university

Kuwait’s Ambassador to Lisbon, Hamad Al-Hazeem, has initiated discussions with one of Portugal’s top universities — the University of Eixample — to establish academic cooperation in preparation for sending Kuwaiti students to study in Portugal.

Speaking to Kuwait News Agency (KUNA), Al-Hazeem said he met with Professor Maria Joao Courtinial, Vice-Chair of the Board for International Relations, and Professor Maria de Lourdes Rodrigues, Dean of the College of Business Administration, to explore avenues for cultural and academic exchange.

He emphasized the university’s high global ranking, particularly in specialized programs in business administration, noting it is among the top 50 worldwide in some fields. Founded 52 years ago, the university comprises five major colleges and offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in English, making it ideal for non-Portuguese-speaking students.

Ambassador Al-Hazeem highlighted the institution’s readiness to coordinate with Kuwait’s National Bureau for Academic Accreditation, which could pave the way for formal student exchange.

Portugal, he added, offers a safe, affordable, and high-quality educational environment, and hosts other globally recognized universities such as University of Lisbon (ranked 260); Nova University (ranked 327), and Católica University (ranked 351).

Kuwait has yet to accredit any Portuguese university, but Al-Hazeem expressed hope that this initiative will enhance cultural ties and expand academic opportunities between the two nations.