Sharjah Ruler appoints Secretary-General of SCHESR
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Al Etihad
5 days ago
- Al Etihad
Sharjah Ruler receives Exeter Medal, unveils Al Qasimi Building
25 July 2025 19:32 SHARJAH (WAM)His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, on Thursday, was awarded the Honorary President's Medal by the University of Exeter—the first time the award has been presented in the university's ceremony took place in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the American University of took place during His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah's visit to the University of Exeter, where he received the medal from Sir Michael Barber, Honorary President of the part of the visit, the Al Qasimi Building project—an initiative launched by His Highness—was officially unveiled. Additionally, a dedicated corner showcasing His Highness's publications was inaugurated at the library of the Institute of Arab and Islamic visit also witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research and the University of Exeter, further strengthening academic collaboration between the two Highness the Ruler of Sharjah received the Honourary President's Medal from the University of Exeter in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education and scientific research, as well as his longstanding and distinguished relationship with the regarded as a pioneer in cultural, scientific, social, and economic development, His Highness has played a pivotal role in fostering cultural exchange and dialogue between nations and civilisations on local, regional, and international his address at the honouring ceremony held at Reed Hall, University of Exeter, His Highness said, 'It brings me great joy to return today to the University of Exeter — this distinguished institution that welcomed me as a student over forty years ago and has remained a lasting part of my academic journey and cherished memories ever since.'His Highness expressed his sincere appreciation for the longstanding and fruitful collaboration with the University of Exeter, stating: 'I stand before you with deep gratitude for the meaningful journey we have shared — one built on knowledge, partnership, and common aspirations. I take particular pride in the enduring cooperation between the University of Exeter and the Emirate of Sharjah over the past four decades. This partnership has not only endured but also flourished into a model of academic excellence. At the heart of this success is the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, a distinguished centre that hosts the Arab World Archives Unit and the Emirati Collection — both vital resources for preserving and exploring our cultural heritage.'His Highness highlighted the academic collaborations between the University of Exeter and institutions in Sharjah, noting, 'Through the years, our collaboration has given rise to numerous academic partnerships across universities in Sharjah. At the University of Khorfakkan, the joint Marine Sciences programme with Exeter plays a key role in advancing the study of coastal and marine ecosystems. At the University of Al Dhaid, cooperation in geology and environmental sciences is helping to build a strong academic foundation in Earth sciences. Additionally, the Sharjah Education Academy has launched pioneering programmes in special educational needs, drawing on Exeter's long-established expertise and commitment to inclusive education.'His Highness noted that these initiatives embody a shared vision centred on investing in people and knowledge — a vision that continues to grow. A clear example of this is the Al Qasimi Building project at the University's Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, unveiled today, which stands as a testament to the joint commitment to creating inspiring academic spaces for future Highness concluded his speech by expressing heartfelt thanks and appreciation to the leadership, faculty, and partners of the University of Exeter for this special honour and their ongoing commitment to education, research, and international cooperation. He encouraged the continued building of bridges rooted in understanding, discovery, and shared her speech during the ceremony, Dr. Lisa Roberts, Chancellor of the University of Exeter, commended the vision, leadership, and unwavering support of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah for education. She highlighted the profound influence of His Highness on the development of educational institutions, the valuable partnerships he has fostered with the university, and the inspiration he continues to provide to scholars and students Roberts highlighted the transformative power of education in advancing societies across all sectors. She stressed the importance of developing academic curricula based on the highest standards and most advanced scientific approaches, alongside a strong emphasis on research, international collaboration, and global noted that this vision is reflected in the model championed by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah across universities and higher education institutions in the Emirate—serving as a practical and inspiring example of educational Chancellor of the University of Exeter reflected on the long-standing relationship between His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and the university, which dates back to the 1980s. She highlighted how this enduring connection has led to the creation of exceptional academic programmes and joint projects, fostering extensive collaboration with universities across the Emirate of Sharjah—many of which were established and supported under His Highness' leadership. She expressed the university's pride in these successful and ambitious partnerships and affirmed its commitment to further strengthening and expanding them in the years to Holden, a graduate of the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, delivered a speech on behalf of the institute's students and alumni, expressing heartfelt gratitude to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. She said, 'I sincerely thank Your Highness for your generous support, which has profoundly shaped my educational journey. Without it, I would not have had the chance to travel, explore diverse cultures, deepen my understanding of religion, or appreciate the intricacies of regional dialects. These experiences have expanded my horizons and enriched my study of the Arabic language in meaningful ways.'She added, 'My time at the university was truly inspiring and strengthened my passion for the Arabic language, which I hope to continue pursuing and sharing with others beyond graduation. With God's will, I aim to contribute what I've learned for the benefit of others. What I've shared is just one story among many lived by Exeter University students—stories that are all tied together by Your Highness's unwavering presence and continued support.'The honouring ceremony featured an artistic performance by a group of Exeter University students, along with a video presentation that showcased the longstanding relationship between His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and the University of Exeter, beginning with his studies and graduation in 1985. The presentation highlighted the ongoing academic cooperation and strong ties that have continued over the decades, culminating in the awarding of the University's first-ever Honorary President's Medal to His Highness also received a commemorative gift from Councillor Anne Jobson, Lord Mayor of Exeter, in recognition of his visit and longstanding support for the University of his visit, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah unveiled the Al Qasimi Building project, a generous initiative by His Highness that will serve as the new home for the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies at the University of Exeter, originally established by His Highness in 2001. The project aims to support researchers and students by providing access to valuable academic resources, historical documents, and references, fostering an environment for in-depth research and documentation in the fields of Arabic and Islamic studies.His Highness and the attendees were introduced to the Al Qasimi Building project through a series of visual presentations. These showcased the architectural vision of the building, designed as a distinguished hub for scientific engagement among students and scholars. The design reflects the richness of Arab and Islamic civilisation and its contributions to knowledge. Featuring a distinctive geometric form, the building is set to become a notable addition to the university campus. The plans also emphasise thoughtfully designed green spaces and open areas intended to foster dialogue and interaction among visitors. Presentations further highlighted the building's comprehensive facilities, including lecture halls, classrooms, gardens, offices, study zones, and a range of services tailored for visitors, readers, and presentations also highlighted key scientific discoveries from research supported by the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, carried out in collaboration with institutions from several countries. These findings stem from joint scientific efforts across diverse fields, including archaeology, human history, and other areas of his visit to the Library of the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi inaugurated a dedicated corner showcasing his publications. This special section features a complete collection of works authored by His Highness, generously donated to the University of Exeter, along with a distinguished edition of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Highness the Ruler of Sharjah has authored 118 diverse works spanning multiple fields of knowledge. Each publication embodies a profound vision and enlightened perspective, showcasing the depth of his cultural insight and the strength of his convictions. His writings have been translated into over 20 major languages, including English, French, Chinese, Italian, Hindi, Russian, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Malayalam, Marathi, Urdu, Bengali, Polish, Dutch, Romanian, Persian, Turkish, and Somali.His Highness's works are renowned for their thorough research and scholarly rigour. They demonstrate his deep passion for the history of the Arabian Gulf, with a special focus on Sharjah and the Gulf region in the modern era. His academic investigations draw upon original documents carefully preserved in international writings of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi stem from a profound intellectual and historical journey that began in the 1980s. Motivated by the need to challenge and correct the misleading narratives spread by colonial powers that distorted the history of the Arabian Gulf, His Highness published his first book, The Legend of Piracy in the Gulf, in 1985. This work marked the start of a comprehensive documentation effort grounded in sources from British, Ottoman, and French archives. Over time, his scholarship broadened to cover a wide range of topics related to Gulf history.His Highness also penned his autobiography in a narrative titled Self-Narration, blending personal reflections with a broader national perspective. Additionally, he brought history to life on stage through more than twenty plays that explore Arab issues and cultural identity. Over time, his body of work has evolved from historical scholarship to include academic research and theatrical productions, creating a comprehensive cultural legacy that unites the roles of ruler, historian, and creative his visit to the library, His Highness reviewed a collection of significant and rare historical documents, books, and sources. Among them was the thesis he submitted in 1985 to earn his PhD in History from the University of Exeter with distinction, titled The Myth of Arab Piracy in the Arabian Gulf, 1797– the University's Northcote Building, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research (SCHESR), along with Dr Lisa Roberts, Chancellor of the University of Exeter, signed a cooperation agreement between the Council and the University to launch a leadership training programme for higher education institutions. Titled Leadership Compass: Shaping the Future of Responsible Governance in Universities, the programme is an advanced and forward-looking initiative in transformational executive education, developed specifically for SCHESR.The programme is structured around five core objectives that align closely with the goals of the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research (SCHESR):1- Developing Strategic Leadership: Empowering university leaders with the skills, insight, and resilience needed to navigate and lead effectively in the dynamic landscape of higher education.2- Strengthening Institutional Governance: Promoting responsible stewardship through transparent decision-making, effective resource management, and alignment with institutional missions and core values.3- Fostering a Culture of Inclusivity and Excellence: Supporting the creation of inclusive, values-driven academic environments that prioritise the well-being of staff, the success of students, and the integrity of scholarly research.4- Enhancing Stakeholder Engagement and Impact: Building capacity for meaningful engagement with both internal and external stakeholders, while reinforcing the university's civic, social, and global responsibilities.5- Encouraging Reflective and Collaborative Practice: Providing space for peer learning, critical self-reflection, and cross-institutional dialogue to inspire innovation, shared leadership, and continuous the sidelines of the signing of the agreement, several areas of cooperation and shared interests in educational and academic affairs were discussed, as were the outcomes achieved from the honouring ceremony was attended by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, along with several distinguished guests, including Mansour Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Ambassador to the United Kingdom; Sheikh Khalid bin Saud Al Qasimi, Deputy Ambassador of the UAE to the UK; Abdullah Mohammed Al Owais, Chairman of the Department of Culture; Dr Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock; Dr Mansour Mohammed bin Nassar, Chairman of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority; Dr Muhadditha Al Hashimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Education Academy; as well as several officials from government entities and higher education institutions in the Emirate of Sharjah. Representing the British side, the ceremony was attended by Lord David Fursden, His Majesty's Representative in Devon; Councillor Ann Jobson, Lord Mayor of Exeter; Sir Michael Barber, Honorary Chancellor of the University of Exeter; Dr Lisa Roberts, Chancellor of the University of Exeter; and several officials from the University of Exeter.
Sharjah 24
15-07-2025
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Parents Council honors high school toppers
Muhannad Abdullah Al Bustani, Chairman of the Sharjah Parents' Council, affiliated with the Department of Suburbs Affairs, thanked His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, for instilling a love of knowledge in the emirate's people and establishing the University of Sharjah as a major academic institution in the country. This provides a great impetus for students to pursue academic excellence and enroll in this university . Al Bustani explained, in statements to 'Sharjah 24,' that the honoring ceremony was titled "Sharjah Students and a Date with Glory... Celebrating the Makers of the Future in the Year of Community." He noted that the ceremony honored the students' families in appreciation of their efforts throughout their studies and to encourage their children to excel . He added that Dr Agamy presented, in his address to the students and their families, the university's academic programs and courses that meet the aspirations of students in various fields. He also reviewed the new trends in students' studies in artificial intelligence and advanced technology .
Gulf Today
18-06-2025
- Gulf Today
Sultan chairs meeting on higher education strategy
His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, chaired the second meeting of the permanent executive committee of the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research (SCHESR) on Tuesday morning at the University City. Sheikh Sultan welcomed the committee members and emphasised the council's role in the coming years, following his directives to correct administrative concepts, improve university governance, and implement strategic planning. The committee discussed various topics and future plans, including the council's work report, organisational structure, strategy, subcommittees, academic staff promotion and evaluation criteria, as well as research and innovation affairs. The committee also reviewed university admission conditions, the diversity of academic programmes, and main and specialised fields to ensure they meet labour market demands and students' interests. Sheikh Sultan approved the preliminary budget for the remaining period of the year, amounting to Dhs18 million, alongside endorsing the council's new logo and headquarters at the University City. He directed the committee to oversee scholarship affairs in Sharjah's higher education institutions, adopting governance frameworks and coordinating between universities and scholarship providers—governmental, semi-governmental, and private. New scholarship standards for postgraduate studies were approved, similar to those for bachelor's degrees. Sharjah students registered with the emirate and with a monthly income below Dhs50,000 will receive full scholarships, while those with higher incomes will benefit from 50% fee grants. Full scholarships will continue for groups such as children of imams and students with disabilities, funded by the Emiri Diwan. Universities and academies will offer special discounts to other categories like high achievers in academics, sports, research, and other fields. The meeting was attended by Dr Mansour Bin Nasar, Head of the Sharjah Government Legal Department and committee rapporteur; Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashemi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Private Education Authority; Professor Hamid Majoul Al Nuaimi, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah and Director of Sharjah Academy for Space Sciences and Astronomy; and Dr Mohammed Yousuf Baniyas, Adviser for Higher Education at Sharjah Private Education Authority. Separately, Sheikh Sultan issued an Emiri Decree regarding the transfer, promotion, and appointment of a Secretary-General for the SCHESR. According to the Decree, Dr Aisha Mohammed Obeid Boukhater Al Shamsi, Director of the Admissions and Registration Department at the University of Sharjah, is transferred to SCHESR, promoted to the rank of Director-General under the Special Jobs System in the Government of Sharjah, and appointed as Secretary-General of the Council. Recently, Sheikh Sultan emphasised the significant role of universities in advancing society. He highlighted the importance of the SCHESR, which was established specifically to assist universities and academies in the emirate in continuing the journey of higher education, which began in 1997 with the establishment of the University of Sharjah and the American University of Sharjah. The Council continues to provide the best sciences to its students, based on the latest educational and pedagogical curricula. Sheikh Sultan spoke about various important issues concerning universities and academic institutions. He emphasised how closely he monitors all aspects of higher education because he believes that science plays a crucial role in the lives of individuals and society as a whole. The Ruler of Sharjah pointed out that science is a double-edged sword; while it has the power to create and improve, it can also be used in harmful ways. Sheikh Sultan emphasised the importance of setting up academic institutions the right way from the very beginning. He reflected on how universities were first established in Sharjah, highlighting the need for skilled professionals to guide this process, which enables these institutions to start strong. Sheikh Sultan pointed out that each university follows a high-quality educational curriculum developed in partnership with some of the best universities worldwide. WAM
