Khalifa University And Global Institute For Disease Elimination Collaborate To Advance Public Health Initiatives

Khalifa University of Science and Technology has partnered with The Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE) to enhance public health systems. This collaboration aims to accelerate the elimination of infectious diseases globally. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost of Khalifa University, and Dr. Farida Al Hosani, Deputy CEO of GLIDE, during the Khalifa University Public Health Symposium 2025.

Professor Sharif expressed that this partnership aligns with their vision to advance education and research in healthcare. He stated, "At a moment when resilient health systems are more critical than ever, this collaboration reflects our shared vision of advancing and strengthening education and research to support a stronger and more adaptable healthcare ecosystem. Khalifa University’s expertise in biomedical sciences, genomics, and AI-driven healthcare complements GLIDE’s global leadership in tackling infectious diseases and together, we aim to create impact that reaches beyond the UAE and across the world."

The agreement includes exploring collaborations in several areas such as knowledge exchange through GLIDE’s Disease Elimination & Eradication Course (DEEC) at Khalifa University. Additionally, GLIDE’s Injaz Fellowship Programme will be part of the initiatives along with guest lectures and other joint projects planned for the future.

Simon Bland, CEO of GLIDE, highlighted the significance of this partnership in building expertise necessary for disease elimination. He noted that it strengthens public health capacity both within the UAE and internationally while driving progress toward eliminating diseases.

Dr. Al Hosani emphasised the importance of collaboration in combating infectious diseases. She said, "Collaboration is key to ending infectious diseases. Through this MoU, we are not only investing in cutting-edge research and education but also empowering the next generation of public health leaders. In line with the UAE’s vision to be a global hub for innovation and health, this partnership will help support national capacity and deliver sustainable solutions that protect communities and accelerate progress towards a disease-free future."

Dr. Habiba Alsafar from Khalifa University added that this initiative provides opportunities for faculty, students, and researchers to engage in programmes addressing diseases directly. It also helps build skills needed to tackle future health threats effectively.

This collaboration between Khalifa University and GLIDE represents a strategic effort to strengthen public health systems through education and research. By focusing on knowledge exchange and empowering future leaders, they aim to make significant strides toward eliminating infectious diseases worldwide.

With inputs from WAM