الشارقة 24:
In a significant move towards empowering the youth, the University of Sharjah and the Quarter Century Foundation for Leadership and Innovation have formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement aims to foster a strategic collaboration between the two entities, enhancing their societal and developmental roles focused on empowering young individuals and cultivating their leadership and creative skills.
The MoU was signed by Sheikha Jawaher bint Abdullah Al Qasimi, General Director of the foundation, and Professor Dr. Issam A. Ajami, Director of the university, at the university’s main campus.
Expressing her gratitude to the University of Sharjah for its warm reception, Sheikha Jawaher conveyed her excitement about finalising the agreement, which aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, on the importance of community partnerships. She remarked, “We hope that this agreement marks the beginning of a larger future collaboration and partnership.”
Training and Educational Programmes
Sheikha Jawaher emphasised the significance of this partnership with the university in nurturing and developing the skills of young people. The MoU will pave the way for various training and educational programmes, providing the foundation’s members and graduates with academic opportunities and involving university students in the foundation’s initiatives and community service programmes. This engagement aims to foster a spirit of initiative and social responsibility among the students.
159 Academic Programmes
In his welcoming remarks, Professor Dr. Ajami expressed his immense satisfaction with the MoU, stating, “The university is not an isolated entity; its value extends beyond its walls to positively impact the community. This has been exemplified by His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who established the University City in Sharjah, equipping it with all necessary elements for comprehensive integration into the community.” He underscored the commitment of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University, to support this direction.
Furthermore, Dr. Ajami highlighted that the university currently offers 159 academic programmes, all of which contribute directly or indirectly to preparing a generation capable of leadership and innovation. He praised the role of the Quarter Century Foundation in supporting the university’s efforts through its programmes and expressed hopes that this partnership would yield additional impactful initiatives benefiting youth and the broader community.
Creation of Incubators and Innovation Labs
The areas of collaboration outlined in the MoU encompass conducting joint scientific and applied research studies on leadership and innovation, as well as talent development. Together, they plan to launch research grants and awards, establish business incubators and accelerators, and create innovation labs. The partnership will also foster social entrepreneurship and youth projects, while designing specialised training programmes focused on leadership, project management, and future skills. Additionally, they aim to develop specialised programmes in artificial intelligence, data analysis, and emerging technologies.
The agreement further encompasses the development of joint digital platforms for managing programmes and assessing their impact, exchange opportunities for faculty members, experts, and trainers, as well as support for producing creative media content for youth. Coordination will also occur in organising relevant conferences and forums.