Latest news with #AmericanUniversityofRasAlKhaimah
Gulf Today
30-06-2025
- Science
- Gulf Today
Varsity on track to achieve sustainability goals
The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE universities. According to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other universities. Further, according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO₂e. The university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating systems. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, says: 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.' Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validates our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.' AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's 'Barjeel' regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our campus. One of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub – a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular economy.
Web Release
30-06-2025
- Science
- Web Release
American University of Ras Al Khaimah scores high in sustainability, with lowest Greenhouse Gas emissions among UAE universities
The sprawling 1.6 million sq. ft. campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE universities. According to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other universities. Further, according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO?e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO?e. The university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating systems. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, says: 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.' Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validates our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.' AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's 'Barjeel' regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our campus. One of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub — a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular economy. AURAK has also set up the Ras Al Khaimah Center for Outdoor Comfort (RAKCOC), which develops innovative solutions that can enhance outdoor comfort and quality of life while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. In addition, AURAK has partnered with the Emirates Environmental Group to collaborate on several recycling initiatives on campus. The university has also raised staff and student awareness of environmental and social sustainability and has organized several training programs and competitions in collaboration with Deloitte and Supluss to promote green skills.
Mid East Info
29-06-2025
- Science
- Mid East Info
American University of Ras Al Khaimah scores high in sustainability, with lowest Greenhouse Gas emissions among UAE universities
Spread across 1.3 million sq. ft., the University is proactively implementing a five-year Sustainability Action Plan RAS AL KHAIMAH, UAE, June: The sprawling 1.6 million sq. ft. campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE universities. According to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other universities. Further, according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO₂e. The university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating systems. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, says: 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.' Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, said: 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validates our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.' AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's 'Barjeel' regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our campus. One of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub — a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular economy. AURAK has also set up the Ras Al Khaimah Center for Outdoor Comfort (RAKCOC), which develops innovative solutions that can enhance outdoor comfort and quality of life while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. In addition, AURAK has partnered with the Emirates Environmental Group to collaborate on several recycling initiatives on campus. The university has also raised staff and student awareness of environmental and social sustainability and has organized several training programs and competitions in collaboration with Deloitte and Supluss to promote green skills. About the American University of Ras Al Khaimah: The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), located in the United Arab Emirates, is a non-profit, public university that offers a comprehensive set of accredited and internationally recognized undergraduate and postgraduate programs. With a focus on holistic education and practical knowledge, AURAK prepares students to become global citizens who are innovators in their respective fields. Through partnerships with top global universities and organizations, AURAK provides students unparalleled opportunities to gain international exposure and experience.
Al Etihad
29-06-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
American University of Ras Al Khaimah scores high in sustainability, with lowest greenhouse gas emissions
29 June 2025 17:33 RAS AL KHAIMAH (WAM) The sprawling 1.6 million sq. ft. campus of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is on track to achieve the sustainability goals set out in its five-year Sustainability Action Plan (SAP), with initial reports showing that it has the lowest greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions among UAE to the findings of the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emission Report conducted by ZeeDimension consultancy for the university, AURAK's total GHG emissions are significantly low when evaluated against those of other according to published data from UAE universities, AURAK exhibits the lowest GHG emissions per capita of 3.67 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO₂e), in contrast to three other top universities whose emissions ranged between 5.68 to 7.59 MTCO₂ university has set an ambitious target to reduce Co2 emissions by 20% by 2030. This reduction will be achieved through the use of vehicles that rely on alternative energy fuel sources, reduced reliance on on-site backup generators, and the expansion of renewable energy sources on campus, such as solar-powered lighting and heating Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success and Provost at AURAK, Prof. Stephen Wilhite, said, 'We take sustainability very seriously at AURAK. We committed to aligning our sustainability actions with the Net Zero by 2050 strategic initiative by reducing greenhouse gas emissions through extensive use of solar energy, adoption of clean transportation, adherence to green building regulations, implementation of circular waste systems, and integration of agriculture with nature-based solutions.'Associate Provost for Research and Sustainability, and Director AURAK's Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Prof. Tahseen Anwer Arshi, said, 'Our Sustainability Action Plan is a blueprint for reducing our carbon footprint, contributing to UN Sustainable Development Goal 13: Climate Action. The findings of the Greenhouse Gas Emission Report validate our commitment to be active contributors to international efforts to reduce global warming. In addition, we are engaged in cutting-edge research that focuses on finding alternative solutions to environmental conservation.'AURAK has also aligned its strategies to the Green Building Standards set forth by the RAK Municipality's "Barjeel" regulations. Accordingly, we aim to reduce embodied carbon in the primary materials used in new construction and major renovations on our of the significant initiatives outlined in AURAK's sustainability action plan is to enhance biodiversity on campus and improve the quality of life for the university community. The university has embarked on a public-private partnership to create a biodiversity hub -- a forest-centric sustainability space that will function as a central hub for research in agriculture and biodiversity, focusing on the evaluation of technologies and systems that harness wastewater and solar energy to promote a circular has also set up the Ras Al Khaimah Centre for Outdoor Comfort (RAKCOC), which develops innovative solutions that can enhance outdoor comfort and quality of life while promoting energy efficiency and reducing environmental addition, AURAK has partnered with the Emirates Environmental Group to collaborate on several recycling initiatives on campus. The university has also raised staff and student awareness of environmental and social sustainability and has organised several training programmes and competitions in collaboration with Deloitte and Supluss to promote green skills.
Gulf Today
14-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Several finance degrees on offer from AURAK
Against a global shortage of finance professionals, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is addressing the issue by pursuing a vision of molding competent modern-day finance specialists through specialised programmes. While the demand for finance professionals has been growing dramatically, driven by data analytics and fintech, as reflected in the rising enrolments at universities, talent shortage has been a matter of concern. According to global recruitment agency Omega Hire, the global finance industry is facing a significant shortage of skilled professionals across sectors, including accounting, banking, investment management, insurance, and fintech. Prof. Stephen Wilhite, Senior Vice President of Academic Affairs and Student Success, and Provost at AURAK, says: 'The finance industry plays a pivotal role in the modern global economy, driving businesses, managing risks, and shaping strategic investments. With a dynamic job market and diverse opportunities, the finance sector continues to thrive, even amid technological disruptions and global economic shifts and talent shortage. We at AURAK have crafted a programme that molds professionals to join this booming industry and build a satisfying career for themselves.' The AURAK BSBA Major in Finance follows an American-style curriculum, accredited by international recognised bodies like SACSCOC and AACSB. The programme is also accredited by an international professional accountancy body, the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) in the UK, to ensure that the AURAK graduates are internationally recognised in the accounting profession. Additionally, it is affiliated with the CFA Institute. 'We have designed this programme to equip graduates with versatile skills applicable across industries, especially valuable in our interconnected global economy,' explains Prof. Vazeer Jan Begum, Associate Dean/Professor, School of Business, AURAK. 'The world of finance is evolving, and practitioners are challenged to keep pace with disruptive developments triggered by AI, Blockchain, and emerging technologies. This programme addresses all these issues and keeps students at the top of the game.' AURAK's Bachelor of Science in Business Administration BSBA (major in Finance), launched in 2020, has been updated to meet the challenge of talent shortage. Its graduates are trained to pursue career opportunities in booming fields such as investment banking, corporate finance, financial planning, asset management, and consulting.
