Launch of the Sustainable Development Goals Research Program to Enhance the Contribution of Scientific Research to Achieving the 2030 Global Agenda

In collaboration with the National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals and the United Arab Emirates University

The National Committee on Sustainable Development Goals, in collaboration with the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), has launched the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Research Program in an event held at the university’s campus in Al Ain. The event was attended by H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah, Assistant Minister of Cabinet Affairs for Competitiveness and Experience Exchange, Chair of the UAE National Committee on SDGs; H.E. Prof. Ahmed Ali Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University; along with faculty members and students.

The launch of the program comes as part of national efforts to enhance the contribution of higher education institutions in supporting the SDGs and to reinforce the role of scientific research in developing practical and innovative solutions that contribute to achieving the 2030 Global Agenda, in line with the UAE’s future vision of building a sustainable knowledge-based economy.

Abdulla Lootah: Strengthening scientific research is a key tool for development and supporting decision-making

H.E. Abdulla Nasser Lootah emphasized in his speech that the collaboration between the National Committee and UAEU represents a national model of integration between government entities and academic institutions. He stressed that the SDGs Research Program reflects the UAE’s vision and its leadership’s focus on strengthening scientific research as a major driver of development and a key contributor to informed decision-making. It also reaffirms the UAE’s commitment to empowering youth and researchers to become partners in creating practical solutions that advance the achievement of the SDGs.

His Excellency added that the program will serve as a national platform that brings together academic thinking and government expertise in a distinguished learning and research model that enables transforming research outcomes into initiatives and policies that enhance the UAE’s standing in global indicators and support its role as a hub for sustainable knowledge.

 Ahmed Al Raeesi: A new milestone in the university’s journey toward research excellence

H.E.Prof, Ahmed Al Raeesi, Vice Chancellor of the United Arab Emirates University, affirmed that the launch of this program marks a new milestone in the university’s journey toward research excellence. He said:
"At UAEU, we are pleased to be an active contributor to national efforts aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Our objective today is to empower youth to play a leading role in shaping the future, while integrating the principles of sustainability into education and scientific research to generate knowledge that provides realistic solutions to modern-day challenges from climate change to sustainable cities and clean energy."

His Excellency added that the program reflects the fruitful partnership between academic institutions and government entities, noting that the UAE has made sustainability a national priority through on-ground efforts and effective partnerships. He stated that this program strengthens the university’s position as a leading national research institution and an academic partner in supporting the country’s journey toward achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

Developing applied scientific research

The program focuses on encouraging students to develop applied scientific research across various fields, including climate, energy, environment, health, education, and economic growth. It also aims to enhance their skills in research, analysis, and formulating sustainable scientific solutions.

The program seeks to activate academic and institutional partnerships within an integrated national ecosystem that supports the translation of research outputs into practical initiatives contributing to policy development and generating the desired societal impact.

The collaboration between the National Committee and UAEU is a practical embodiment of SDG 17 on Partnerships for the Goals, as both sides work together to build a new generation of researchers capable of keeping pace with global challenges and innovating high-value solutions that benefit both humanity and the environment. The launch of the program reflects the UAE’s commitment to supporting education and scientific research as fundamental pillars for achieving comprehensive development and strengthening its position as a regional and global hub for knowledge and innovation in sustainability.