Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Andrew Furey’s Vision Brings Historic Change in Canada and Strengthens Global Partnerships
December 18, 2024, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE): The Honourable Premier Andrew Furey of Newfoundland and Labrador has consistently demonstrated transformative leadership. His remarkable achievements, including the landmark Churchill Falls agreement, resonate deeply with the values of Canadian University Dubai (CUD). As a distinguished honourary doctorate recipient from CUD, Premier Furey’s close affiliation with the university reflects a shared commitment to excellence and meaningful global impact.
His recent landmark announcement of the new Churchill Falls agreement marks a historic achievement, valued at hundreds of billions of dollars over 50 years. It addresses decades of economic disparity tied to the original 1969 contract. The deal will generate significantly higher revenues for Newfoundland and Labrador, starting at $1 billion annually and reaching $4 billion by 2056. Premier Furey’s leadership was instrumental in ensuring the agreement was inclusive, securing the support of the Innu Nation, whose traditional lands include Churchill Falls. This highlights his dedication to creating opportunities for Indigenous communities in Canada while advancing sustainable growth.
Premier Furey’s tenure as a leader is marked by a deep commitment to global partnerships and humanitarian causes. He was named Humanitarian of the Year by the Canadian Red Cross and earned the Governor General of Canada’s Meritorious Service Cross in recognition of his extraordinary contributions.
Dr. Karim Chelli, President and Vice-Chancellor of Canadian University Dubai, emphasized the importance of Premier Furey’s leadership and achievements, stating, “Premier Furey embodies leadership that creates transformative change. His groundbreaking achievements, including the Churchill Falls agreement, reflect a vision and purpose that inspire greatness in all who strive to make a difference on a global scale. At CUD, we are deeply honoured to recognize his extraordinary contributions with an honorary doctorate. His close relationship with our university is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when values like resilience, innovation, and collaboration are at the forefront.”
Premier Furey has maintained a close relationship with the CUD community, participating in key events and discussions that reflect his commitment to meaningful collaboration. Most notably, he was the honoured guest at the 2024 graduation ceremony, where he addressed graduates and shared insights that inspired students, faculty, and staff alike. During an early visit this year, CUD proudly awarded Premier Furey an honourary doctorate in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to society and leadership. His discussions during these visits touched on topics such as economic diversification, healthcare innovation, sustainable development and more.
From his roots in medicine and humanitarian work to his transformative leadership in public service, Premier Furey represents the principles of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven action. For instance, as a distinguished orthopaedic trauma surgeon, he founded “Team Broken Earth,” which provided critical medical relief following the 2010 Haiti earthquake.
Canadian University Dubai is incredibly proud to celebrate his remarkable accomplishments and the inspiration he provides to our future generations of leaders.