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Sharjah 24
12-06-2025
- Sport
- Sharjah 24
Sultan bin Ahmed attends UOS postgraduate graduation ceremony
Commitment to Ongoing Achievement In his speech at the ceremony, His Highness stated that each year, ahead of the graduation event, he is presented with reports detailing the university's accomplishments. He shared his recurring thought: "Will we be able to achieve new accomplishments next year after such an overwhelming number of achievements?" Yet, he added, he is consistently pleased to see that the UOS's journey never halts—it only deepens and expands. Highlighting Major Achievements His Highness, President of the University, outlined the accomplishments achieved by the university this year, affirming that excellence is not a destination but a continuous journey. He revealed that the university recorded 23 major achievements, alongside several others across different fields. Among these was the UOS receiving the Platinum Rating in the STARS (Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System) by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, with a perfect 100% score. This made the university the first in the Middle East to receive this prestigious recognition in sustainable education and research. Additionally, the UOS topped UAE universities in the fields of social sciences, humanities, and the arts according to the latest 2025 rankings by the Times Higher Education. Recognition in Governance, Sports, and Global Engagement His Highness continued: 'The university also won the award for Best Entity in Governance Implementation in the Tamayuz Award.' On the student and sports level, the university's football and volleyball teams secured first place in the team sports championship, while the basketball team achieved second place. The squash team clinched the gold medal in the universities' championship. Furthermore, the university was selected to host the upcoming World University Powerlifting Championship in 2026. He emphasised his commitment to ensuring that these achievements are not merely headlines or social media posts, but real, impactful milestones that are felt, translated into action, and invested in for the future. Addressing the Graduates Addressing the graduates, His Highness praised their knowledge, learning, and skills in their respective fields, describing them as the graduates of the UOS. A university that, since its founding, has been a beacon of knowledge and learning—guided by the wise vision and directives of its founder, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. Appreciation for Faculty and Families His Highness also addressed the university's faculty, saying: 'I reviewed your recent series of meetings, which you approached with seriousness and ambition, resulting in a group of projects that were approved yesterday by the Board of Trustees. These projects will serve as a roadmap for continued development at the university. You taught, guided, and helped shape these brilliant minds—thank you.' He also appreciated the efforts of the graduates' families, noting that they deserve the greatest share of pride for their support, patience, and encouragement, which laid the foundation for this journey. He added, 'Today is not just your children's graduation day—it is the day your joy is fulfilled.' Wishing Graduates Continued Success His Highness concluded his speech by congratulating the graduates on their significant achievement, describing it as the fruit of years of perseverance and hard work. He wished them continued success as they embark on new journeys and pursue big dreams. University Chancellor's Speech The ceremony began with the national anthem of the United Arab Emirates, followed by a recitation from the Holy Quran. Professor Dr Issam Al-Din Ibrahim Ajami, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah (UOS), then gave a speech in which he expressed his joy and pride. He extended his gratitude to His Highness the President of the University for his patronage and for honouring the graduation of a new elite group of postgraduate degree holders. Professor Dr Ajami congratulated the graduates and their families on this achievement, describing it as the result of their perseverance and determination, as well as their families' steadfast support. He expressed his deep gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and founder of the university, who laid the foundation for knowledge and made the UOS a proud institution that embraces ambition and celebrates success. University Vision and Role of Graduates The Chancellor emphasised that the university's various programmes are not merely advanced academic stages but are journeys of research, critical thinking, and reflection. These programmes prepare students to become leaders in their fields and active contributors to scientific progress and societal advancement. He described the graduates as bearers of the responsibility to develop knowledge, build innovation-based economies, guide evidence-based policies, and participate in creating a more sustainable and advanced future. He stressed the importance of linking academic knowledge to societal needs, focusing on research for impact and development, and ensuring that university research outputs are transformed into practical solutions that improve human well-being and contribute to national growth. Call to Action for Graduates Professor Dr Ajami noted that the UOS is committed to ensuring its postgraduate graduates have a tangible impact on society through diverse research programmes, an outstanding faculty and administrative team, significant capabilities, and international partnerships. He called on the graduates to use their knowledge to address pressing issues, propose policies, foster a culture of innovation, and lead teams within their institutions. He expressed strong confidence in their deep knowledge, scientific methodology, and ethical commitment, asserting that they are thought leaders, knowledge pioneers, and carriers of a mission—leaders of change in fields such as education, economy, health, technology, and the environment. He concluded his speech by promising that the university will remain a strong supporter of students and faculty, striving to provide an environment that fosters creativity and contribution. He urged graduates to continue their academic and professional journeys with the spirit of a researcher, the mind of a thinker, and the heart of a person devoted to excellence and service. Graduates' Speech On behalf of the graduates, Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi delivered a speech expressing their pride and joy in standing on the graduation stage, celebrating the end of an exceptional academic journey and the beginning of a new phase of giving and responsibility. He noted that they carried dreams, faced challenges, and now reap the fruits of their efforts at the UOS—a beacon of knowledge and thought founded by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. He praised the inspiring vision and continuous support of the university's President, who leads it toward global excellence and intellectual innovation across all disciplines. Acknowledgment of Faculty and Families Sheikh Dr Salem commended the efforts of the academic staff, highlighting their great impact in shaping minds, directing energies, honing skills, and enabling graduates to achieve this academic success. On behalf of his fellow graduates, he offered heartfelt thanks, saying: 'You taught us that knowledge is a mission, that ethics are inseparable from learning, and that a true researcher seeks truth, not praise—lessons we will carry with us for life. You have our prayers, our gratitude from the heart, and our eternal loyalty.' He added: 'After the rights of God, your rights come next. You were the first to believe in us, stayed up when we slept, prayed when we were tired, and smiled at our success. On this graduation day, words fall short of expressing what you've given us in love and care. While we celebrate our achievement today, in truth, this is your achievement first. You planted, and we harvested.' A Message to Fellow Graduates Sheikh Dr Salem addressed his fellow graduates: 'Knowledge is the key to this world and the path to the hereafter. Whoever seeks worldly success must pursue knowledge, and whoever seeks the afterlife must pursue knowledge. Those who seek both must pursue knowledge. Seeking beneficial knowledge is the best effort a person can exert. Through knowledge, societies advance, civilisations are built, and achievements are realised. Walk swiftly toward progress, surpass others in excellence, and raise the stature of our homeland with your achievements. No nation has attained prominence without the pursuit of knowledge by its people. Be its present and future, its fortress and strength, its shield and protection.' He concluded by citing the advice of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah: 'Continue scientific research, for it is the mission of the noble and the path of the learned.' Distribution of Certificates and Closing His Highness the President of the UOS then presented the graduation certificates to the male and female graduates, congratulating them on their achievement and excellence, and wishing them continued success in their future lives and in serving their homeland. Graduates Across Academic Fields The graduates were distributed across the university's various academic colleges, including: the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, College of Business Administration, College of Engineering, College of Health Sciences, College of Law, College of Communication, College of Medicine, College of Dental Medicine, College of Pharmacy, College of Sciences, College of Computing and Informatics, and the College of Public Policy. The number of doctoral graduates reached 119, while 302 earned their master's degrees, and 16 completed the postgraduate diploma programme. Ceremony Attendees The graduation ceremony was attended by Sheikh Abdulrahman bin Salem Al Qasimi, Sheikh Saqr bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Chairman of the Smart Government Department in Umm Al Quwain, Sheikh Humaid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mu'alla, Head of the Umm Al Quwain Ruler's Office, as well as a number of senior officials, members of the UOS's Board of Trustees, and many parents of the graduates.
Gulf Today
01-06-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Sultan Bin Ahmed commends UoS for earning ‘Platinum Rating'
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah (UoS), affirmed the continued support, advancement, and global presence of the university among its prestigious peers in various academic, scientific, and other fields. This, he noted, contributes to the university's progress and solidifies its standing as one of the leading institutions of higher education both within and beyond the UAE. This came on the occasion of the UoS becoming the first university in the Middle East to achieve Platinum Rating under the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) administered by AASHE. The university received a full 100% score in the category of sustainable education and research, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainability across operations and planning, as well as its role in preparing a generation conscious of sustainable practices. This achievement aligns with the UAE's and Sharjah's strategic agendas on sustainability and carbon neutrality through education, research, innovation, and sustainable management and planning. The UoS now joins an elite group of only 15 universities worldwide to have received this top-tier Platinum rating – including 8 universities from the United States, 6 from Canada, and now 1 from the Middle East. His Highness congratulated the Board of Trustees, university leadership, academic, administrative, and technical staff, as well as students, on this new milestone, which adds to the university's impressive record of accomplishments over the years. These successes are the result of a well-defined strategy, vision, and the concerted efforts of the UoS community in providing every possible support to students, who remain at the heart of the university's educational mission. H.H. emphasised the university's commitment to offering students the best possible experiences by continuously enhancing the academic and research environment – from curriculum development, research opportunities, student activities, and innovation support, to the quality of faculty and staff. This is all done through the lens of sustainability in higher education, a global trend that is reshaping the future of universities and colleges. As such, the UOS continues to advance in global rankings across a range of academic and scientific fields. The University's award came following its assessment under the STARS rating programme, a transparent and comprehensive system for measuring and tracking sustainability performance in higher education institutions worldwide. The programme encourages institutions to pursue long-term sustainability goals, fosters continuous improvement, and builds more diverse and high-performing university communities committed to excellence in education. The UoS joined the STARS programme in 2021, earning the Silver rating in its first year, then becoming the first Arab university to receive a Gold rating in 2022, and now achieving the Platinum rating, the highest possible level – a clear affirmation of the university's leadership in sustainability.
Sharjah 24
31-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sultan bin Ahmed commends UOS for earning "Platinum Rating"
First University in the Middle East to Achieve Platinum This came on the occasion of the UOS becoming the first university in the Middle East to achieve Platinum Rating under the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS) administered by AASHE. The university received a full 100% score in the category of sustainable education and research, reflecting its strong commitment to sustainability across operations and planning, as well as its role in preparing a generation conscious of sustainable practices. This achievement aligns with the UAE's and Sharjah's strategic agendas on sustainability and carbon neutrality through education, research, innovation, and sustainable management and planning. The UOS now joins an elite group of only 15 universities worldwide to have received this top-tier Platinum rating — including 8 universities from the United States, 6 from Canada, and now 1 from the Middle East. A Milestone Achievement for the University Community His Highness, President of the UOS, congratulated the Board of Trustees, university leadership, academic, administrative, and technical staff, as well as students, on this new milestone, which adds to the university's impressive record of accomplishments over the years. These successes are the result of a well-defined strategy, vision, and the concerted efforts of the UOS community in providing every possible support to students, who remain at the heart of the university's educational mission. Sustainability as a Core Pillar of Higher Education His Highness emphasised the university's commitment to offering students the best possible experiences by continuously enhancing the academic and research environment — from curriculum development, research opportunities, student activities, and innovation support, to the quality of faculty and staff. This is all done through the lens of sustainability in higher education, a global trend that is reshaping the future of universities and colleges. As such, the UOS continues to advance in global rankings across a range of academic and scientific fields. Transparent and Rigorous Global Evaluation Process The University's award came following its assessment under the STARS rating programme, a transparent and comprehensive system for measuring and tracking sustainability performance in higher education institutions worldwide. The programme encourages institutions to pursue long-term sustainability goals, fosters continuous improvement, and builds more diverse and high-performing university communities committed to excellence in education. The UOS joined the STARS programme in 2021, earning the Silver rating in its first year, then becoming the first Arab university to receive a Gold rating in 2022, and now achieving the Platinum rating, the highest possible level — a clear affirmation of the university's leadership in sustainability.
Gulf Today
29-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
AUS, BEEAH launch professorship in eco innovation
In a significant move that reaffirms the UAE's position at the forefront of sustainability and environmental innovation, American University of Sharjah (AUS) and BEEAH have signed an agreement to establish the BEEAH Professorship in Environmental Innovation and Sustainable Development at AUS. Backed by a generous Dhs5 million investment from BEEAH, the professorship aims to accelerate breakthrough research and equip future leaders with the tools to shape a more sustainable world. The agreement was signed at the AUS campus by Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and Khaled Al Huraimel, Group Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of BEEAH, in the presence of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, and representatives from both institutions. 'This partnership with BEEAH is a strategic alignment of vision and values. It reflects our shared commitment to addressing the world's most pressing environmental challenges through knowledge, innovation and leadership,' said Dr. Laursen. 'The BEEAH professorship will empower AUS to deepen its research agenda while preparing our students to lead in an increasingly complex, sustainability-focused global landscape.' 'To solve our collective challenges as society and drive sustainable progress at scale, education, research and innovation are essential. BEEAH's educational initiatives in these areas and our long-time strategic partnership with AUS are a testament to that fact,' said Al Huraimel. 'The new professorship marks a major step forward in our shared journey of collaboration, unlocking a new opportunity for academic excellence, groundbreaking research and transformational leadership dedicated to sparking innovations for a sustainable tomorrow.' The professorship will serve as a cornerstone for advancing research in climate resilience, environmental sustainability and sustainable urban development. It will also foster innovation in key areas such as renewable energy, waste management, smart cities and the circular economy — while equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and tools to drive impactful environmental change. AUS is ranked first in the UAE for environmental sustainability (QS World University Rankings 2025) and has been named a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) Gold Institution by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) based on its accomplishments in campus sustainability. Reem Bardan, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at AUS, said: 'What makes this partnership truly meaningful is its consistency and depth. BEEAH has stood by AUS across many milestones — sponsoring flagship campus events, engaging with our students and supporting initiatives that align with our academic and institutional goals. This professorship represents a natural progression in a relationship built on mutual trust, shared values and long-term commitment. It is yet another example of how strong, sustained partnerships can create lasting impact for our students, faculty and the broader AUS community.' This new professorship builds on AUS' growing portfolio of academic positions that support faculty excellence and long-term research impact. As part of its broader research strategy, AUS continues to attract prestigious investments that reinforce its role as a regional leader in innovation and academic advancement. For more information about AUS' professorships and chairs, visit .
Sharjah 24
28-05-2025
- Science
- Sharjah 24
AUS, BEEAH launch professorship to advance innovation
The agreement was signed at the AUS campus by Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and Khaled Al Huraimel, Group Chief Executive Officer and Vice-Chairman of BEEAH, in the presence of Her Excellency Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS, and representatives from both institutions. 'This partnership with BEEAH is a strategic alignment of vision and values. It reflects our shared commitment to addressing the world's most pressing environmental challenges through knowledge, innovation and leadership,' said Dr. Laursen. 'The BEEAH professorship will empower AUS to deepen its research agenda while preparing our students to lead in an increasingly complex, sustainability-focused global landscape.' 'To solve our collective challenges as society and drive sustainable progress at scale, education, research and innovation are essential. BEEAH's educational initiatives in these areas and our long-time strategic partnership with AUS are a testament to that fact,' said Al Huraimel. 'The new professorship marks a major step forward in our shared journey of collaboration, unlocking a new opportunity for academic excellence, groundbreaking research and transformational leadership dedicated to sparking innovations for a sustainable tomorrow.' The professorship will serve as a cornerstone for advancing research in climate resilience, environmental sustainability and sustainable urban development. It will also foster innovation in key areas such as renewable energy, waste management, smart cities and the circular economy—while equipping the next generation of leaders with the knowledge and tools to drive impactful environmental change. AUS is ranked first in the UAE for environmental sustainability (QS World University Rankings 2025) and has been named a Sustainability Tracking, Assessment and Rating System (STARS) Gold Institution by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) based on its accomplishments in campus sustainability. Reem Bardan, Executive Director of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at AUS, said: 'What makes this partnership truly meaningful is its consistency and depth. BEEAH has stood by AUS across many milestones—sponsoring flagship campus events, engaging with our students and supporting initiatives that align with our academic and institutional goals. This professorship represents a natural progression in a relationship built on mutual trust, shared values and long-term commitment. It is yet another example of how strong, sustained partnerships can create lasting impact for our students, faculty and the broader AUS community.' This new professorship builds on AUS' growing portfolio of academic positions that support faculty excellence and long-term research impact. As part of its broader research strategy, AUS continues to attract prestigious investments that reinforce its role as a regional leader in innovation and academic advancement.
