Sharjah Ruler H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi Welcomes First Cohort Of Global Studies University Master's Students

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, attended a ceremony on Tuesday morning. This event marked the welcoming of the first master's students at the University of Global Studies in Sharjah. Upon arrival, Sheikh Dr. Sultan was greeted by Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the university, and other notable figures.

The establishment of the Global Studies University in Sharjah has been announced by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan. The first group of students has already begun their studies at this academic institution. The university aims to contribute to the pursuit of beneficial knowledge through its programs.

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Dr. Mansour bin Mohammed revealed Emiri Decree No. (57) of 2023, issued by H.H. the Ruler of Sharjah on September 14, 2023. This decree establishes the Global Studies University as a non-profit Arab academic institution in Sharjah with legal status and independence.

The decree appoints Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi as head of the university. It also outlines the university's structure, which includes specialized scientific colleges and institutes such as the College of African Studies and others focusing on different regions.

An Administrative Resolution No. (1) of 2025 was read by the Head of the Legal Department regarding the formation of the Board of Trustees for the Global Studies University. Issued by Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi, it details members including Dr. Salah Mohamed Hassan and other distinguished professionals.

Sheikha Hoor welcomed attendees at the launch event, highlighting Sharjah's cultural and scientific role globally. She emphasized Africa Hall's historical significance since its establishment in 1976 as part of Sharjah's cultural project initiated by H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan.

Global Studies University's Vision

Sheikha Hoor outlined initial concepts for Global Studies University developed through extensive research on Arab-African relations' importance. A pivotal moment was marked by opening Africa Hall and hosting an "Arab-African Relations Symposium," recommending establishing an Arab-African center for documentation based in Sharjah.

This recommendation led to founding Africa Institute via an Emiri decree on June 6, 2018, serving as Global Studies University's inaugural institution established by another decree in 2023.

Academic Focus and Objectives

The university outlines its objectives, specializations, and programs including Africa Institute—a multidisciplinary academic research institution focused on humanities and social sciences studies offering master's/doctoral degrees.

The Africa Institute promotes comprehensive study beyond geographic boundaries while operating semi-independently within a network featuring Asia Institute (to be established this year), Oceania Institute among others dedicated to various global regions.

Welcoming New Students

At her speech's conclusion, Sheikha Hoor welcomed Master's students from around world noting that university will provide everything needed for promising futures: "This ancient edifice is intended to be a source of inspiration for you."

Dr Salah Mohammed Hassan expressed gratitude towards H.H Sheikh Dr Sultan’s presence/support during student reception ceremony emphasizing university’s role advancing scientific/intellectual research globally: "This moment signifies culmination extensive planning commitment creating scientific environment fostering research critical thinking intellectual development contributing better understanding Africa global context."

Cultural Engagement Encouragement

Professor Salah Hassan encouraged students immerse themselves not only academically but also culturally within vibrant atmosphere offered by Sharjah/UAE engaging classmates/professors embracing rich heritage diverse cultures available through academic experience.

The ceremony concluded with H.H Sheikh Dr Sultan welcoming first group students from Global African Studies Program expressing hopes success educational journeys taking memorable photo celebrating occasion; students expressed heartfelt thanks Ruler generous support education opportunity pursue studies variety subjects/research areas.

With inputs from WAM