Sharjah Ruler H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Attends Exeter Gulf Alumni Association Ceremony
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended the University of Exeter Gulf Alumni Association Ceremony at the Dr. Sultan Al-Qasimi Centre. Reflecting on his academic journey, he shared insights from his time as a PhD student at the University of Exeter over 40 years ago when it was ranked third among British universities.
Dr Lisa Roberts, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, expressed her gratitude to H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan for his ongoing support and for hosting the alumni gathering. She highlighted the event as a chance to celebrate the university's enduring partnership with Sharjah, marked by a recent cooperation agreement with the University of Al Dhaid to launch a Bachelor’s degree in Geological Sciences.
The Ruler of Sharjah praised the University of Exeter for its continuous progress, elevating it among leading global academic institutions. He acknowledged its profound influence on his academic pursuits, historical research, and personal growth as a scholar, evident in his writings and unique approach to documenting history.
H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan emphasised his lasting relationship with the university since his student days, expressing commitment to fostering collaborative partnerships between Exeter and Sharjah's academic institutions across various educational programmes.
The ceremony featured a video showcasing H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan receiving the Honorary President’s Medal from the University of Exeter — a first in its history. The film highlighted his contributions to education and scientific research, long-standing ties with the university, and pivotal role in establishing its centres and initiatives.
Dr Brendan Godley from Exeter presented on the Sharjah Marine Research Centre, a joint initiative with Khorfakkan University. He discussed their cooperation agreement, joint working group formation, and upcoming centre opening with state-of-the-art facilities supporting marine science research.
Future Collaborations
Dr Roberts noted plans for expanding partnerships with more universities in Sharjah. She mentioned marine science students from Khorfakkan visiting Exeter in the UK for valuable learning experiences enabled by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan's support.
During Godley's presentation, he expressed pride in accomplishments achieved through collaboration between both universities. He reviewed video clips showcasing marine life monitoring methods and ongoing projects aimed at solving challenges related to fish farms and marine habitats.
Ceremony Highlights
The event concluded with Dr Lisa Roberts presenting H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan with a commemorative gift in appreciation of hosting the alumni gathering. In honour of Gulf region graduates from Exeter, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan hosted a dinner attended by several dignitaries including Dr Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar and Mohammed Obaid Al Zaabi.
The ceremony underscored deep cultural and academic ties between Sharjah and Exeter University while celebrating achievements made possible through mutual cooperation over decades.
With inputs from WAM
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