Sultan bin Ahmed Launches 2nd Edition of Twinning of Arab Universities

Photo : Sharjah Govt Media Bureau

The second "Twinning of Arab Universities" forum took place at the University of Sharjah from November 20 to 22, 2024. It was organized by ALECSO, an organization that focuses on education, culture, and science in the Arab world. The forum’s theme was “Green Entrepreneurship and Environmental Volunteer Teams in Arab Universities—Working Together for a Better Future.” University leaders from Arab countries gathered to discuss how universities can help the environment and make the future better.

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The event started with the UAE national anthem and a reading from the Holy Qur'an. Dr. Hamid Majul Al Nuaimi, the Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, welcomed the guests. He talked about how the university has grown and become well-known for its education and research. He mentioned that the university offers many programs that are recognized in the UAE and worldwide.

Dr. Al Nuaimi said that the forum was a great chance for universities to share ideas and work together. He also talked about how new technologies, like artificial intelligence, can help solve big problems, such as protecting the environment. He thanked everyone who helped organize the event.

Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar, the head of ALECSO, also spoke. He thanked the UAE and Sharjah for hosting the forum. He praised the University of Sharjah for its work in education and research. Dr. Amar talked about the importance of supporting businesses that help the environment. He also said that it is important to encourage students to volunteer and take care of the planet.

Dr. Amar introduced a new guide on research ethics, created by ALECSO. This guide will help universities in the Arab world follow good research practices. He said that research is important because it helps solve problems and improves life for everyone. ALECSO has worked with many Arab countries to improve science and technology.

Dr. Amar also thanked the University of Sharjah for supporting young researchers. During the forum, the “ALECSO Prize for Creativity and Innovation for Young Researchers in the Arab World” was given to young researchers who did excellent work.

It was also announced that the next ALECSO Forum will be held at Sohar University in Oman in 2025. The University of Nizwa in Oman will host the seventh ALECSO Prize for Creativity and Innovation in 2026.

Prof. Mohammed Sand Abu Darwish from ALECSO spoke about the importance of Arab universities working together. He explained the Arab Strategy for Scientific Research, Technology, and Innovation, which aims to improve education and development in the Arab world by 2030.

Prof. Abu Darwish also talked about how green businesses can help solve problems like climate change. He encouraged young people in Arab universities to join projects that protect the environment.

Dr. Thomas Alfons Efreth from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden gave a talk about "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Higher Education." He explained how AI can help improve teaching, research, and support students in universities.

The forum also recognized the ALECSO Award for Creativity and Innovation. This award celebrates young researchers and universities for their excellent work. The University of Sharjah was honored with the ALECSO Award for its leadership in green business and the green economy.

The winners of the ALECSO Award were announced. Dr. Huda Al-Dairi from Oman, Dr. Sufian Al-Alayli from Tunisia, Dr. Rana Imam from Jordan, and Dr. Hani Naser Abdulhamid from Egypt won the “Distinguished Arab Researcher” award. Dr. Awatif Mahfuz Abdulmajid from Saudi Arabia won the “Research Project” award.

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, was there to see the signing of a new agreement between the University of Sharjah and ALECSO. This agreement will help both organizations work together on research, training, and community service.

At the end of the forum, the leaders exchanged gifts and took photos. The event was attended by international organizations like UNESCO and youth groups such as “Activate,” which helps students improve their skills. Experts in green business and volunteer work also joined the forum.

The forum helped strengthen connections between Arab universities and encouraged teamwork in education, research, and protecting the environment. It showed how important young people are in building a better future. The University of Sharjah is committed to working with other universities to improve education and research.