SAASST Welcomes University Of Liverpool Delegation To Strengthen Academic Ties

The Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) recently hosted a delegation from the University of Liverpool. This event marks a significant step in international academic collaboration as Sharjah inaugurates its Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research. The meeting aimed to strengthen ties between Sharjah's academic institutions and the University of Liverpool.

Professor Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Advisor to the President of the University of Sharjah and Director of SAASST, welcomed the delegation. He was joined by Dr. Muhadditha Yahya Al Hashimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Private Education Authority, and Professor Mohammed Youssef Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor at the authority. The Liverpool delegation was led by Professor Paul Lunn, Dean of the School of Veterinary Science.

Professor Al Naimiy highlighted the importance of fostering academic partnerships locally and internationally. He noted that this initiative aligns with Sharjah's strategic vision for advancing higher education and research. This vision is inspired by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi and supported by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi.

The discussions during the meeting explored potential collaborations in various fields such as medicine, engineering, social sciences, artificial intelligence, and educational technology. Opportunities for faculty and student exchange programmes were also considered, along with joint research projects addressing global challenges.

The Liverpool delegation toured SAASST's advanced scientific exhibits to gain insight into technologies supporting education and research in space sciences. They also attended an immersive presentation at the Sharjah Planetarium, which provided an engaging educational experience in astronomy.

Participants reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation to achieve shared goals in academic and research excellence. The University of Liverpool expressed readiness for robust collaboration with Sharjah’s higher education sector through strategic initiatives that drive scientific innovation.

Commitment to Global Collaboration

The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing on the importance of opening new horizons for scientific projects that benefit local and global communities. The University of Liverpool pledged to pursue partnerships that enhance scientific excellence.

Attendees from the University of Sharjah included Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research; Prof. Rabih Halwani; Prof. Abdullah Shanableh; Prof. Faker Al Gharaibeh; and several faculty members. From Liverpool were Prof. Josh Slater and Dr. Rabihah Sabousi from Al Dhaid University.

With inputs from WAM