Post by : Badri Ariffin

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, presided over the Board of Trustees meeting for Al Dhaid University on Monday. He lauded the institution's remarkable advancements in agriculture, veterinary science, sustainability, and research.

The Ruler emphasized the institution's strong outcomes driven by cutting-edge academic programs and exemplary scientific research, showcasing its expanding influence in education and innovation.

He noted that Sharjah's universities benefit from collaborations with globally recognized institutions, enhancing their academic offerings instead of starting anew. This has led to notable improvements in educational quality and bolstered the research capabilities available to students.

His Highness highlighted the ongoing need for progressive education and scientific practices to yield optimal results. He pointed out that Sharjah's universities have established a strong regional reputation due to their pioneering research initiatives and their role in cultivating qualified professionals for critical sectors and upcoming developmental projects.

The Board of Trustees reviewed key aspects concerning the university’s educational and administrative enhancement strategies. They also discussed methods to boost institutional efficiency and support future growth.

Achievements from the previous period were presented, covering educational infrastructure advancements linked to academic programs. Noteworthy initiatives included a mobile veterinary clinic and a smart farm, alongside upgraded facilities aimed at improving hands-on training and research activities for students.

The Board also deliberated on partnerships with prominent international universities to launch dual-specialization programs. Plans include summer training opportunities, notably a program for Royal Agricultural University students from the UK in summer 2026.

Dr. Aisha Ahmed Bushlaibi, Chancellor of Al Dhaid University, shared a report detailing the institution's recent milestones. Notably, the Skills Development Center received accreditation from a recognized UK entity, complemented by significant scientific research achievements over the academic year.

Reports from various committees, including Finance, Academic, and Compliance, were also reviewed, encompassing progress in education, research, and operational administration.

On the meeting's periphery, His Highness visited an exhibition showcasing student research projects centered on sustainability, food security, and veterinary health, which incorporated innovative technologies and AI applications in agriculture and animal welfare.

Projects aimed at enhancing soil health, conserving water, and utilizing natural materials for post-harvest crop treatment were among the highlights. Sustainable farming systems that merge fish farming with vertical agriculture were also presented to further the UAE’s food security initiatives.

His Highness reviewed veterinary medicine initiatives, particularly efforts to educate on the responsible use of antibiotics and their implications for human and animal health. Modern educational tools utilized for student training were also showcased, including laboratory simulations, radiation technologies, and 3D modeling.

The Ruler of Sharjah examined the mobile veterinary clinic project aimed at enhancing students' practical abilities and clinical exposure, with a focus on ethical animal care and community engagement within the veterinary field.

He assessed the current and projected developments for the university, including a state-of-the-art 1,000-seat theatre outfitted with modern facilities, classrooms, workshops, and multipurpose halls.

Plans for a mosque at the university were also addressed, featuring a men’s prayer space for 1,400 and a women’s area accommodating 450, alongside additional necessary facilities.

Furthermore, the university’s agricultural laboratory initiative was highlighted, including a cluster of labs, a seed laboratory, and two greenhouses to promote scientific inquiry and practical training in sustainable agriculture and food security. Additional enhancements include the development of 640 shaded parking spaces for students.

During his visit, His Highness toured the “EKTIFA” exhibition organized by the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Foundation, showcasing a range of organic products and new food items slated for introduction in UAE markets.

Featured products included Mleiha dried milk, mozzarella cheese, organic ice cream, and premium chocolate, among others. EKTIFA also announced the launch of high-protein milk for athletes with an impressive 43% protein content, alongside a new honey variety termed “Zahrat Al-Samar.” The foundation anticipates unveiling around 140 organic products in the UAE over the next three years to promote food self-sufficiency and sustainable development.

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