Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Celebrates Its 15th Graduation Ceremony For The Class Of 2024

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) recently celebrated its 15th graduation ceremony at Emirates Palace’s Auditorium in Abu Dhabi. The event was held under the patronage of Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chair of SUAD’s Board of Trustees. This year, 217 graduates received degrees, marking a significant academic milestone.

The Class of 2024 included 146 bachelor’s degrees, 66 master’s degrees, and five diplomas from the Continuing Education Centre. Graduates represented a diverse mix, with 149 females and 68 males from 36 different nationalities. Emiratis made up 51.6% of the class, showcasing SUAD's commitment to fostering local talent.

The ceremony featured speeches from notable figures such as Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the UAE President; Professor Nathalie Drach-Temam, President of Sorbonne Université; Nicolas Niemtchinow, French Ambassador to the UAE; Professor Edouard Kaminski, President of Université Paris Cité; and Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Vice-Chancellor of SUAD. Graduates Lynda Rekiki and Omar Al Marzooqi also shared their experiences.

Graduates came from three main schools: Law, Economics & Business (91 graduates), Arts and Humanities (81 graduates), and Data Science & Engineering (40 graduates). The Continuing Education Centre awarded diplomas in International Sports Management to five students. These programmes highlight SUAD's multidisciplinary approach to education.

Among this year's graduates were Omar Al Marzouqi and Amna Al Qubaisi. Omar earned double bachelor's degrees in Philosophy and Sociology. He is known for being the first UAE national to win a medal at the Youth Olympic Games and is ranked among the global Top 20 under 25 in equestrian sports.

Amna Al Qubaisi graduated with a degree in Records Management and Archival Science. She is recognised as the first female Emirati racing driver and has achieved significant milestones in motorsport, including being the first woman to win in Formula 4 history in 2019.

Inspirational Messages

Zaki Nusseibeh addressed the graduates with words of encouragement: "Today, you reap the reward of your hard work, patience and dedication. It is not the end, but rather the onset of a new journey that will shape your future and the future of the world you are living in." He urged them to use their education for personal growth and societal benefit.

Professor Nathalie Drach-Temam emphasised diversity as a strength: "In the face of events transforming our world, the diversity of our graduates stands as our greatest hope." She highlighted SUAD's role as a bridge between cultures and its commitment to sustainability.

A Vision for Future Leaders

Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz expressed pride in seeing students from various backgrounds unite: "Seeing each of our students, from different corners of the world, work together with such unity is truly inspiring." She noted that SUAD provides an environment where collaboration comes naturally.

The Class of 2024 embodies values like peace and global understanding. They are poised to become future leaders who will address pressing global challenges. Their resilience and dedication promise positive impacts on their careers and communities.

With inputs from WAM