Sky-High Aspirations Create the Stars of Future 

The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) in collaboration with the University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) hosted for two days from (23-24 January 2018) the International Symposium titled “How to Inspire the Future Space Scientists”. The Symposium represents the continuing efforts that the College of Science (COS) and the National Centre for Space Science and Technology (NSSTC) at UAEU exert to enhance the National Innovation Strategy including the Space Sector.

“We encourage our students to enroll in the Space Sector, the Space Science will lead our country to a global innovative position” H.E. Professor Mohammed Albaili, UAEU Vice Chancellor highlighted in his speech, “We aim to build world-wide partnerships foundation with different institutions and universities in the field of Space Science, in addition, to provide the research opportunities that help in creating the stars of future”.

High level of experts and representatives from CU Boulder, UAE Space Agency, Al Yah Satellite Communications Company (Yahsat) and the Information and Communication Technology Fund (ICT) attended the symposium and discussed various Space Science themes, focusing on spreading the culture of Space Science, and showcasing its importance to build a better understanding that will enable students to enroll in the Space Field, as well as encourages research opportunities, partnerships and students exchange in Space Science and Technology.

In this context, Professor Ahmad Murad, Dean of the College of Science and a Member of the UAE Council of Scientists explains: “We recognize the importance of  Space Science, we are working on developing academic programmes that will contribute to achieving the country’s 2021 vision towards creating a specialized generation in the field of Space Science and Technology”.

The Symposium was also an opportunity for faculty and students to build research partnerships with international researchers and space scientists. Moreover, the symposium was an academic platform to share experiences, success stories and achievements in an inspirational atmosphere.