University of Sharjah’s dental forum attracts global experts

The University of Sharjah’s College of Dental Medicine has launched its highly anticipated third International Dental Forum, drawing distinguished speakers from six countries namely, Canada, Britain, Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, and Oman, under the general theme “Innovation in Dentistry: Transforming Lives.”

The event, held under the patronage of Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University, features a robust programme that includes a graduate research exhibition supported by the International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (IADR).

This year’s forum delves into a wide array of clinical dentistry topics, ranging from oral surgery and digital dentistry to prosthodontics, endodontics, pediatric dentistry, and professional ethics. A particular highlight is the exploration of current trends and future frontiers in artificial intelligence applications within dental practice, underscoring the field’s rapid evolution.

In his opening remarks, Prof. Qutayba Hamid, Vice Chancellor for Medical and Health Sciences Colleges and Dean of the College of Medicine, discussed the forum’s role as a dynamic platform for interaction and collaboration among students, faculty, and alumni.

He extended heartfelt gratitude to His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, as well as to Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, President of the University, for their steadfast support of the University’s medical and health sciences complex.

Hamid also praised the faculty’s dedication and outlined the college’s strategic vision for vertical expansion through the introduction of master’s and doctoral programmes that keep pace with global advances in dental science, technology, and artificial intelligence. He also emphasised the University’s commitment to graduating highly qualified dentists with a strong foundation in impactful scientific research that benefits society at large.

Dr Amina Al Marzouqi, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the urgency of pursuing and encouraging innovation in an era of rapid change.

“We are living in a time where innovation is reshaping the future of healthcare, and dentistry is no exception,” she remarked.

Al Marzouqi reaffirmed the University of Sharjah’s unwavering commitment to this vision, noting that the institution’s strategic plan aims to position it as a center of excellence in education, research, and community service.

She explained that the University’s mission extends beyond the classroom, striving to make a tangible impact on society by fostering innovation, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, and empowering the next generation of healthcare professionals.

According to Al Marzouqi, this conference embodies that mission, serving as a stage where ideas are transformed into action, research meets practice, and local challenges are addressed with global insight.

Prof Sawsan Al Kawas, Acting Dean of the College of Dental Medicine, emphasised the growing significance of this scientific gathering, which has evolved over the past two years from a local event into a global platform attracting leading minds from the region and beyond.

She noted that this year’s conference brings together a select group of pioneers to share their vision for redefining dentistry and exploring how technology is revolutionising oral healthcare.

Professor Al Kawas stressed the importance of lifelong learning for dentists and specialists to keep pace with the latest developments in the field.

Professor Ahmed Jumla, Chair of the Organising Committee, highlighted the college’s ongoing efforts to enhance its academic and professional standing by hosting such a high-caliber scientific event.

He explained that the conference’s theme reflects the rapidly changing landscape of dental care and the shared responsibility to shape the future of dental healthcare. The forum offers participants the chance to engage with cutting-edge research and hear from some of the most prominent voices in dentistry. It also provides postgraduate students with the opportunity to participate in a scientific competition, supported by the IADR, further enriching the event’s academic rigor.

Now in its third edition, the International Dental Forum at the University of Sharjah stands as a premier platform uniting international speakers, clinicians, academics, graduates, researchers, students, and dental professionals from around the globe.

WAM