In a move that reflects the global nature of the ongoing communication revolution, the USC Annenberg School for Communication has launched major research collaborations with two media institutions in the Middle East and Africa.

The partnerships will include technical assistance and instructional training as well as wider scholarly collaboration through mutually administered research centers.

Through the agreements, with the Nigerian Communication Commission’s Digital Bridge Institute and American University in Dubai, USC Annenberg will share its expertise in media policy and communication technology with faculty and administrators overseas.

The partnerships build on USC Annenberg’s existing international programs, which include a joint degree program offered with the London School of Economics & Political Science, research collaborations with the Centre for Media Studies in New Delhi and plans for academic partnerships with institutions in China.

“As increasing numbers of societies take advantage of the communication revolution, the need will only grow for a sophisticated analysis of the issues at play,” said USC Annenberg Dean Ernest J. Wilson III. “The USC Annenberg School is uniquely positioned to explore these new models of partnerships and build global capacity in media and communication around the globe.”

At the Digital Bridge Institute, USC experts in communication technology and policy will work with educators as they advance the institute’s mission of building Nigeria’s ability to invest in the rapidly growing information and communication technology sector. Scholars from the USC Marshall School of Business’ Institute for Communication Technology Management also will assist in the research collaboration.

Through an agreement with American University in Dubai, USC Annenberg will serve as a model for the university’s new Mohammad bin Rashid Media College. USC Annenberg faculty and scholars will work with Dubaian administrators to create a curriculum that explores emerging global issues in communication and journalism while honoring the cultural differences between the United States and the Arab world.

“We think we can really make a difference here,” said Philip Seib, USC Annenberg journalism professor and principal project director of the partnership with American University.

“The news business is much less mature in Arab countries, and as with any young industry, if it’s to develop to its highest potential, it requires some thought,” Seib said. “We’re eager to contribute to the enhancement of journalistic fundamentals in the American University program by fostering appreciation of American journalism values – everything from ethics to professional production skills. The end result, we hope, will be a new generation of Arab journalists who can contribute to the political development of their region.”

In addition to technical assistance programs and training workshops, the Dubaian partnership may involve a wide range of USC Annenberg faculty and research scholars to build elements for mid-career professional development and opportunities for research and international meetings.

Faculty and student exchange programs also are under discussion, as are further partnerships with other schools at USC.