In a significant move aimed at strengthening connections and fostering support for talented students, the American University of Sharjah (AUS) has recently revitalised its alumni chapter in Syria, which was originally established around 15 years ago. The announcement took place during a welcoming event held at the Art House hotel in Damascus, attended by alumni, university representatives, and prominent figures from the business sector. A key highlight of the gathering was the launch of a scholarship fund designed to assist financially disadvantaged yet gifted Syrian students who wish to pursue studies at the university.
Reem Bardhan, Executive Director of the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at AUS, expressed that the reactivation of the chapter would provide an expanded platform for communication among Syrian alumni and the university’s faculty and administration. She stated, “We aspire for the chapter to serve as a vital link between our graduates in Syria and the community at the American University of Sharjah. When these connections are solidified, new opportunities for cooperation and collaborative efforts towards Syria’s future emerge.”
During the event, Bisher Al-Shalah, the chapter representative and a business administration graduate of 2004, announced the establishment of the scholarship fund. He mentioned that AUS boasts over 22,000 graduates, of whom approximately 1,479 are Syrian, with around 86 residing in Syria. Al-Shalah noted that the chapter aims to harness the skills and professional networks of alumni to facilitate knowledge exchange and build impactful collaborations, which are vital for addressing Syria’s needs for qualified individuals who can support its institutions and economy. The initiative also seeks to connect the university community, regardless of nationality, with Syria to explore partnership opportunities that contribute to the country’s advancement.
The scholarship fund has already received foundational contributions from various companies, including “Shalah Projects” and “Be Order.” Coordination with additional institutions for further contributions is ongoing. A team from the university will manage the donations and distribute the scholarships, while the chapter focuses on broadening its support base and enhancing the fund’s impact.
Amer Al-Zaeem, a board member of the Marwan Group, which sponsored the event, emphasised Syria’s pivotal role in the history of civilization. He pointed out that keeping pace with rapid technological advancements, including artificial intelligence and automation, necessitates a fundamental change. At a time when these developments present increasing challenges for leading nations and major corporations, Al-Zaeem stated, “We want an economy that produces and innovates, one that does not merely consume but exports, competes robustly, and excels in global markets. With this vision, we can restore Syria to the status it deserves on the global map, highlighting the importance of this chapter.”
Moreover, Al-Zaeem remarked that the alumni network could make a significant difference by providing career guidance, fostering partnerships, and initiating new projects, harnessing the connections among alumni in Syria, the UAE, and around the world.
The Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at the American University of Sharjah is dedicated to keeping its graduates connected, creating opportunities for professional development, and facilitating contributions to their communities.