MOFA and UAEU Launch “Academic Carnival” Initiative Ahead of UN Water Conference

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) have launched the “Academic Carnival” Initiative, with wide participation from academic and research institutions in the UAE. This initiative is part of the events leading up to the UN Water Conference, and it marks a qualitative step aimed at highlighting the leading role of universities and institutions in supporting food security and environmental sustainability through education, research, and institutional cooperation. The initiative was launched on Monday, June 2nd, 2025, at the university campus in Al Ain.

H.E. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, delivered a speech during the official launch event. He affirmed that the Academic Carnival embodies the university’s commitment to its national and international role in shaping a more sustainable future. H.E. stated, “Effective management of water resources is not only a technical issue, it is a strategic priority affecting environmental, economic, and social aspects at the same time.”

H.E. added that this initiative is a vital platform that brings together academic and research institutions to showcase their strategic water-related projects, in the lead-up to the United Nations Water Conference, which will be hosted by the UAE in collaboration with the Republic of Senegal. H.E. stressed the importance of promoting integration between universities and national research centers, and the role of knowledge in advancing practical solutions to rapid global challenges.

H.E. concluded his speech by affirming that “Knowledge Partnership” is the cornerstone of any nation’s growth, noting that the “Academic Carnival” embodies this concept by enhancing dialogue between national universities and global communication paths on water, sustainability, and environmental security.

Sheikha Dr. Moza bint Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Advisor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, affirmed in her speech that the UAE has placed water issues, energy, and sustainability as top priorities—especially since water affects every part of life. Hosting the 2026 UN Water Conference in collaboration with the Republic of Senegal affirms the UAE’s position and the unwavering commitment of our wise leadership to water issues.

H.H. expressed that the launch of the “Academic Carnival” Initiative represents a qualitative and scientific path that contributes to the pillars of the conference, stressing the importance of integration between science and research in addressing development challenges in the country and globally. She valued the partnership between MOFA, local academic institutions, and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), which provides technical support to the initiative. Sheikha Dr. Moza bint Tahnoun Al Nahyan expressed her gratitude and appreciation to UAEU for hosting the launch of the initiative and to all partners.

The launch event witnessed wide participation from representatives of leading academic and research institutions in the UAE, among them Abu Dhabi University, University of Sharjah, Rabdan Academy, and the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research. The event concluded with honoring the participating entities in appreciation of their contributions to supporting this national initiative and in enhancing academic cooperation in water and sustainability issues.