Saudi University lures scientists

Press, 1 June 1981, Page 4

Saudi University lures scientists

PA, Wellington A Saudi Arabian university has coaxed 20 New Zealand doctors and scientists into its corridors, according to its agents in Wellington. The New Zealand agents for the King Faisal University College say that it is not a “brain drain" because the scientists are on two-year and three-year contracts. The university sought staff in Britain and the Unitec States and advertised in New Zealand in February fo: senior lecturers in microbioi ogy, anatomy, community medicine, and' other medica and scientific specialities. Advertising and travel arrangements were made by Mrs T. B. Clay, of Auckland. The short list of applicants

was. selected by a team of Arabians who flew to New Zealand in April to hold interviews.

Mrs Clay said yesterday that 20 people had been offered appointments at the university, and 13 had already left for Saudi Arabia. The rest would follow soon.

Included are a professor, three associate professors, nursing supervisors. X-ray and laboratory technicians, and computer personnel. Computer centre directors and other administration staff were engaged in Boston or London, Mrs Clay said.

New Zealanders were soug'ht by the Arabians because they were highly skilled, used to a small coun-

try. worked hard, and were not politically minded. ‘New Zealanders just go. work there, and then get out again,” Mrs Clay said. The new university provides plenty of attractions, in spite of the 40deg heat and ban on alcohol. Salaries are double those in New Zealand and are tax-free. Staff work on an annaul contract that can be terminated by either side after nine months, receive 60 days annual paid leave, yearly return air fares home for the applicant and family, and education allowances for children. The New Zealanders are unable to buy land. They also cannot stay in the country once their contract expires.