Kuwait research partnership targets healthcare impact

The University of Reading has entered into a strategic research partnership with a major pharmaceutical organisation in Kuwait.

Formalised in a Memorandum of Understanding signed in June, the initiative brings the University together with the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association (KuPhA), a publicly-funded professional body dedicated to advancing pharmaceutical practices in the country.

Through the partnership, the institutions aim to develop shared research projects that will generate high-quality publications capable of informing healthcare policy across the Middle East.

Research unit established

As part of the collaboration, a dedicated research unit has been created in Kuwait. Led by experts from both Reading and KuPhA, the Health Services Research, Policy and Innovation Unit (HSRP) will initially focus on pharmacy practice as well as health services research and policy.

Research activities will be based in Kuwait in collaboration with other academic and health institutions. The partners plan to act as co-investigators on future grant applications, while also promoting staff and student exchanges and facilitating the sharing of academic materials and publications between Reading and KuPhA.

"This represents an exciting opportunity for the University of Reading to expand our research impact in the Middle East and collaborate on projects that will directly influence healthcare policy in the region,” said Dr Mamoon Al Deyab from the University’s School of Pharmacy, who directs the new research unit.

“By establishing this dedicated research unit in Kuwait, we are creating a platform for meaningful international collaboration that will benefit both our academic community and the broader pharmaceutical profession."

Dr Ahmad Taqi, Chair of the Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association, said: "We are confident this exciting partnership will help to increase the number of specialised pharmacists in Kuwait, expand our scientific output and support evidence-based studies.”

“Through it, we aim to foster joint research networks between pharmacists working in Kuwait and the United Kingdom, opening doors to shared research projects, academic exchange and mutual professional development.”