UAEU Ramadan Majlis: Universities and Sustainable Development Goals

The United Arab Emirates University organized its first Ramadan Majlis under the theme " Role of Universities in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals," attended by H.E.Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Acting Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, along with senior administration members, department directors, academics, and researchers. This event aligns with the university's commitment to supporting the nation’s vision and national agenda for 2030-2050.

In his opening speech, H.E.Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi explained that "UAEU works to support the academic and educational environment by organizing extracurricular activities that contribute to highlighting the university’s societal role." He mentioned that the UAEU’s Ramadan Majlis sessions for 1446 AH aim to discuss key topics in various fields and the role of academic institutions and research centers in finding scientific solutions based on experience and analysis. The university will organize four different Ramadan Majlis sessions focusing on topics related to national priorities such as sustainable development goals, future curricula, artificial intelligence in education, and the role of academic institutions in enhancing community participation through purposeful dialogue. He added, "The UAEU Ramadan Majlis sessions are an important knowledge and community platform where academics, researchers, and university students participate, presenting academic and scientific practices in these majlises through effective dialogue. These councils serve as a platform for spreading knowledge and science on the most important topics concerning higher education and society. The university seeks to link the outcomes of these councils to development and progress."

H.E. highlighted the importance of adhering to the vision of the United Arab Emirates and its wise leadership in implementing the national agenda for 2030-2050 to achieve sustainable development goals. This is done through active and collaborative efforts between various institutions and relevant authorities to create integrated frameworks that contribute to achieving national targets. At UAEU, this is achieved by aligning academic programs and integrating curricula that help spread awareness and knowledge about sustainable development goals and the societal role of individuals in achieving the desired objective. The university also supports the national agenda and sustainable development targets by enhancing scientific research through student research programs focused on sustainable development goals, which are carried out in collaboration with government institutions to link scientific research outcomes with societal challenges.

The Majlis witnessed in-depth discussions on the role of academic institutions in advancing research and innovations that promote sustainability, as well as the importance of integrating sustainable development standards into curricula. It also highlighted partnerships between universities and the public and private sectors to support environmental projects, promote the circular economy, and develop sustainable solutions for global challenges, such as climate change and food and water security. The speakers emphasized the critical role of universities in building qualified national cadres capable of leading green and sustainable initiatives. They also reviewed pioneering experiences in adopting advanced technologies and artificial intelligence to support sustainable development across various sectors.

The Majlis discussions focused on the role of universities and academic institutions in preparing a generation capable of facing sustainability challenges through academic curricula and specializations. The second session discussed how university research contributes to finding sustainable solutions to environmental, economic, and social challenges. The third session focused on university initiatives to achieve sustainability through green buildings, resource management, and reducing the carbon footprint.

In conclusion, the Majlis sessions addressed current performance indicators, challenges, and opportunities for achieving sustainable development goals. Participants stressed the importance of enhancing research collaboration between universities locally and internationally and developing educational policies that align with global sustainability agendas, aiming to create a positive and lasting impact on society and the economy.

This council is part of a series of Ramadan events organized by the university to foster scientific and societal dialogue on strategic issues contributing to achieving the UAE's vision for a sustainable and prosperous future.