IsDB and MSM Join Forces to Explore Collaboration on Global Value Chain Analysis
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and the Maastricht School of Management (MSM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on global value chains (GVC) capacity building, operationalization, and joint publications.
The MoU was virtually signed by Mr. Meinhard J. Gans, MSc, Chief Executive Officer, and Dean a.i. at Maastricht School of Management, and IsDB President, Dr. Bandar Hajjar, on 15th June 2021.
The collaboration will contribute to the operationalization of IsDB's GVC agenda through joint work at country and industry level. MSM will work with IsDB in building the capacity of IsDB Member Countries in GVC analysis, which is IsDB’s strategic approach for identifying and developing interventions and projects in Member Countries.
“We feel privileged to be partnering with IsDB and fully share IsDB’s commitment to sustainable economic development, as reflected in the SDG Goals. We look forward to be a partner of IsDB and bringing in our GVC expertise in a join comprehensive cooperation, both in education & training, in joint research and capacity development,” said Mr. Gans during the signing ceremony.
On the occasion, Dr. Hajjar stated: “We view our partnership with MSM in global value chain analysis and knowledge transfer as part of a package of long-term support to our Member Countries in ensuring they are well-positioned to reap the benefits of participating in GVCs. We stand ready to support this partnership which aims to enable both institutions to promote knowledge sharing and develop joint programs.”
Through the implementation of the MoU, IsDB member countries will benefit from technical capacity building and training of IsDB’s staff as well as officials from our member countries through research, advanced training programs, knowledge-sharing events, and workshops.
MSM and IsDB are also exploring options to jointly develop an advanced degree program, possibly at Masters and PhD level, in GVC Analysis and Industrial policy that will be one of the first of its kind and tailored to the needs of our Member Countries.
Director of DoST, Dr. Ahmed Elkhodary underlined that the MoU is part of IsDB’s proactive approach to build up human capital in our member countries and enhance the development effectiveness of the P5P and the bank’s GVC-based business model. Dr. Mohammed Faiz Bin Shaul Hamid, Acting Manager of the GVC Division, indicated that this partnership will allow stakeholders and policymakers in our member countries to better understand GVC dynamics and benefit from the transformational benefits of GVCs.
Furthermore, MSM’s Value Chain Expert, Dr. Jeroen van Wijk emphasized the importance of participating in GVC’s as it increases exports, creates jobs, generates income growth and reduces poverty. The closing remarks on the scope of the cooperation were made by Dr. Diederik de Boer, Director International Projects and Consulties at MSM, who stated to look forward to the cooperation with IsDB.
Related information
Value Chain and Partnerships Research and Publications
MSM's expertise on Value Chains & Partnerships
