Post by : Bianca
Haleem
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, chaired a Board of Trustees meeting for Al Dhaid University on Monday. He commended the institution for its continuous achievements in academia, agriculture, and veterinary sciences.
During the session, His Highness remarked on the university’s success, attributing it to its high-quality academic programs and scientific research initiatives. The rapid strides made in agricultural and veterinary disciplines highlight its role as a leader in education and innovation.
The Ruler emphasized that Sharjah's universities leverage partnerships with esteemed global institutions rather than starting from ground zero. This collaboration has allowed for enhanced educational quality and increased opportunities for scientific research for students.
He underscored the necessity of continual advancement in education and research practices to yield optimal results. His Highness acknowledged the region's recognition of Sharjah universities due to their research excellence and their integral role in cultivating skilled professionals for future developmental projects.
The Board of Trustees examined various topics pertinent to the university's educational and administrative progression, exploring avenues to maximize institutional effectiveness and bolster future growth.
Among the reviewed recent accomplishments were enhancements to the educational and applied infrastructures. Notable initiatives included the establishment of a mobile veterinary clinic and a smart farm, alongside the upgrade of facilities to enrich practical training and research for students.
The Board deliberated on collaboration with leading international universities to facilitate dual-specialization programs. The university is also planning to host summer training sessions, including one for students from the Royal Agricultural University in the UK in summer 2026.
Dr. Aisha Ahmed Bushlaibi, Chancellor of Al Dhaid University, presented a report citing recent milestones, including the Skills Development Center's accreditation by a recognized UK organization and notable scientific research achievements during the academic year.
Additionally, the Board reviewed reports from various committees on finance, academics, internal audits, compliance, and resource development, addressing advances in education, research, and administration.
On the meeting's sidelines, His Highness visited a student exhibition showcasing research projects related to sustainability, food security, and veterinary medicine. The exhibition highlighted innovations in technology and AI applications in agriculture and animal care.
Students presented initiatives aimed at enhancing soil quality, minimizing water usage, and utilizing natural materials for crop damage restoration post-harvest. Sustainable practices showcased included integrating fish farming with vertical agricultural methods to support the UAE’s food security objectives.
His Highness also reviewed veterinary and public health initiatives, focusing on the responsible use of antibiotics and their implications for human and animal well-being. He observed advanced educational tools for student training, such as laboratory simulations, radiation technology, and 3D modeling.
The inspection included the university’s mobile veterinary clinic project, designed to enhance students' hands-on experience and ethical animal care while serving the community.
His Highness further assessed current and prospective expansion projects, which include a state-of-the-art 1,000-seat theater equipped with modern amenities, alongside classrooms, workshops, and multi-purpose halls.
Plans for the university mosque, which will accommodate 1,400 worshippers in the men’s prayer hall and 450 in the women’s section, were also evaluated.
Additionally, the agricultural laboratory project was highlighted, which features four laboratories, a seed lab, and two greenhouses aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture and food security. The project also includes developing 640 shaded parking spaces.
His Highness toured the EKTIFA exhibition, showcasing organic products and innovative food items set for future UAE markets.
The exhibition featured items such as Mleiha dried milk, mozzarella cheese, organic harissa grains, and premium “Qand” chocolate. EKTIFA plans to roll out high-protein milk for athletes, containing up to 43 percent protein, along with a new honey product, “Zahrat Al-Samar,” aiming to unveil nearly 140 organic food products over the next three years to foster self-sufficiency in food and sustainable development.
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