I just returned from a visit to a university in Dubai in the United Arab Emirates where I spent a week talking with them about the status and future of their science and mathematics programs. Dubai is an interesting place, with its rapid development and forward-looking vision against the backdrop of one the most ancient cultures and places on the planet. In many ways, what is happening in Dubai epitomizes our 21^st century world and the global challenges we face. In higher education, they face the similar challenges as the U.S.; that is, how does a university effectively prepare its young people to work and live in this complex interconnected world. Of course, science and mathematics preparation is critical. (more…)