Sharjah: The Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association (ERRA) has signed a licensing agreement with the American University of Sharjah (AUS), marking a significant milestone as the second university in the UAE to obtain such a licence and the first government-affiliated academic institution to adopt a comprehensive model for protecting authors' rights and copyright in educational settings. The agreement was formalized during ERRA's participation in the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025.
According to Emirates News Agency, this agreement is part of ERRA's ongoing efforts to establish a sustainable academic environment based on the organized and responsible use of knowledge resources. It also ensures the fair distribution of royalties to authors and publishers within the UAE and internationally, aligning with global best practices in education and research.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President and Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of American University of Sharjah (AUS) and honorary chairperson of ERRA, commented on the agreement, highlighting its significance in fostering an academic culture that respects creativity and promotes proper knowledge-sharing practices. She emphasized the importance of copyright protection not only as a legal duty but also as a responsibility to support research, intellectual output, and the development of the publishing sector.
Mohammed bin Dkhein, Chairman of ERRA, expressed pride in the licensing agreement with AUS, stating that the collaboration represents a significant step in supporting the UAE's creative ecosystem. He reflected on AUS's commitment to a conscious and fair model for knowledge reuse, emphasizing that copyright protection is a cornerstone for cultivating a culture that respects creativity and celebrates innovators.
Dr. Todd Larsen, Director of AUS, remarked that the agreement allows the university to provide educational materials on campus and online with confidence and clarity. It enables copying and access for authorized users in the university community, requires robust controls for digital course materials, and respects any exceptions defined by the association. He noted the university's commitment to empowering faculty and students to access necessary resources while prioritizing creators' rights and setting a model for responsible knowledge use.
The agreement was signed at ERRA's pavilion during the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair, in the presence of representatives from both parties, cultural figures, publishers, and media personnel. This partnership is part of a broader series of collaborations through which ERRA seeks to establish a fair knowledge system, raise societal awareness, protect creators' rights, and support the national creative economy.
