Saudi Trumpets New University's Independance

http://www.nytimes.com/reuters/world/lifestyle-saudi-trumpets.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

Saudi's new university, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, is a huge step away from the typical atmosphere of Saudi universities. The university is the first of its kind in that it will be completely co-ed and there will be no control over the curricula, staff or students from the higher education ministry. The King wants this campus to be as that of any other high quality college anywhere else in the world, one of free thought, equality and easy mingling of independent men and women. King Abdullah laid the first stone at the university and his backing is promised to ensure that the college remain free from any governmental or religious constraints. Surprisingly, the college could possibly headed by a woman. A woman being placed in such a position is definitely a supportive step to what the establishment is trying to promote. The university partnering with as many as 60 other universities is also a step in the right direction to the success of the open enviroment that officials desire. The campus is expected to be completed in 2009. How exciting for a new generation of learners in Saudi.