‘Spark17’ showcases innovative projects

The College of Communication at the University of Sharjah (UoS) has successfully hosted its 17th annual graduation project exhibition, “Spark17,” under the theme “Community Partnership.”

The event was attended by Prof. Hamid MK Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the UoS, and Sarah Mooney, British Consul-General to Dubai and the Northern Emirates, alongside numerous academic and professional figures.

“Spark17” reflects the University’s strategy to match academic outcomes with labour market needs while fostering collaboration with local and international institutions.

The event showcased innovative projects by graduating students, highlighting their professional creativity in addressing challenges facing the communication and media industry.

The exhibition featured 48 graduation projects presented by 88 students across various specialisations: Public Relations (11 projects), Radio and Television (11 projects), Digital Media Design (16 projects), Digital Journalism (3 projects), and English Communication (8 projects). These projects were developed in collaboration with several local entities and in partnership with Sharjah Media City (Shams), the Sharjah Government Media Office, and the British Council.

The graduation projects covered diverse topics reflecting the rapid changes in the media sector, with students focusing on employing modern technology and Artificial Intelligence in content production and design, including virtual reality, live broadcasting, and digital design.

Projects also addressed key issues such as sustainability, environmental protection, climate change management, and women’s leadership, alongside promoting volunteer culture and community service through media campaigns and public relations initiatives serving local community institutions and contributing to sustainable community development.

Artistic works in directing, editing, presenting, filmmaking, and animation also stood out, combining creativity with human values, and reflecting the students’ awareness of social issues and their aspirations to build purposeful and innovative media.

This year, the British Embassy to the UAE participated as a guest of honour.

The Embassy shared photographs showcasing features of British culture, film screenings from the British Council, and student graduation projects that were later shown at 06 Mall Cinema City.

Prof. Jairo Lugo-Ocando, Dean of the College of Communication, emphasised that the exhibition represents an important platform for showcasing students’ capabilities and innovations, enhancing their practical experience, and supporting their readiness for the job market through direct communication with decision-makers and specialists in media and communication sectors.

He added that the exhibition reflects the College of Communication’s commitment to equipping students with the skills and traits that would enhance their employability and supporting effective partnerships between academia and industry.

WAM