Former British prime minister Gordon Brown will be the keynote speaker at New York University Abu Dhabi's, NYU Abu Dhabi, second commencement ceremony on May 24.

NYU Abu Dhabi's graduating class is comprised of some 149 students from 47 countries around the globe, and the graduation exercises will be held at university's campus in Saadiyat Island.

Gordon Brown served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Leader of the Labour Party from 2007 to 2010. Previously, Brown served as Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1997 to 2007. In July, 2012 he was made UN Special Envoy for Global Education and he is a passionate advocate for global action to ensure education for all.

"We are delighted to welcome the Rt Hon Gordon Brown as the keynote speaker for the NYUAD 2015 Commencement," said NYUAD Vice Chancellor Al Bloom. "He has been amongst the closest friends of this institution and a formidable source of empowerment to our commitment to building a cooperative world and a united humanity. Gordon's Brown's exemplary service to his nation and to the betterment of our globe will inspire our graduates to invest with even greater energy and care their wisdom and talent in responding to the critical challenges of this century."

In addition to the Keynote address by Mr Brown, the NYUAD Vice Chancellor's Medal, which recognises individuals for outstanding service to the University and to society, will be awarded to Graca Machel, renowned international advocate for women's and children's rights as well as a social and political activist over many decades.
Source: WAM