Sharjah is a lively emirate, joins East and West, says Sheikh Sultan
- Last updated: June 3, 2025 | 12:16
Gulf Today, Staff Reporter
As part of its “Academic Degree” series for June 2025, The Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi Centre (DSQC) has revisited the 2011 awarding of an honorary doctorate in political science to His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, by South Korea’s Hanyang University (HYU).
The university, one of South Korea’s oldest academic institutions, conferred the degree in recognition of the Sharjah Ruler’s contributions to political and economic development.
It also acknowledged his role in promoting cultural exchange between the UAE and South Korea.
During the ceremony held in Seoul, His Highness emphasised the importance of education and research in advancing societies. He expressed his pride in receiving the honorary degree from a globally respected institution and praised the university’s academic programmes for their focus on linking research with real-world applications.
His Highness highlighted Sharjah’s vision for knowledge and scientific advancement. He referenced the emirate’s leading academic institutions, including the University of Sharjah (UOS) and the American University of Sharjah (AUS), and their comprehensive offerings across diverse fields.
“Sharjah is a lively emirate that brings the East and West together, while holding on to the values and traditions of its people,” he said.
Sharjah’s Ruler further stressed the need to expand the industrial and service sectors through international collaboration. “We believe that exchanging ideas and visits will help build strong cultural and economic ties that benefit our nations and lead to prosperity,” he added.
In his remarks, Dr. Duck-Ho Lim, former president of HYU, commended the far-reaching contributions of the Sharjah Ruler across the globe, expressing hope for continued cooperation between the two countries.
Dr. Jae-Ok Park, Dean of the College of Graduate Studies, presented a detailed account of the Ruler’s achievements, which have helped position Sharjah as the cultural capital of the Arab world. He underlined His Highness’s various publications and initiatives aimed at enriching the lives of his people.
Founded in 1939, HYU is one of South Korea’s most esteemed institutions, particularly known for its engineering programmes.
Its alumni have made significant contributions to the country’s development and technological innovations, both nationally and internationally.
The honorary doctorate is one of several international recognitions bestowed upon His Highness in recognition of his leadership in education, culture, and public service.