Sultan Bin Ahmed attends UoS alumni annual ceremony

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, attended the University of Sharjah (UoS) Alumni Association’s annual ceremony on Saturday evening.

The event took place at the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences, and Technology in University City.

In his address, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed welcomed the attendees and graduates, underscoring the significance of this distinguished scientific and social gathering that reunites alumni from various cohorts and disciplines as they return annually to their alma mater.

He shared the story of Ibn Al Haytham, the renowned scholar of optics, who studied at the House of Wisdom in Baghdad before travelling to Egypt, where he achieved global recognition and became a symbol of scientific excellence. Despite his success, Ibn Al Haytham eventually returned to Baghdad. When asked why he came back at the height of his fame, he replied, “I return to give back some of what I have learned. I return to teach as I was taught.”

He chose to spend his final years educating and mentoring students, making knowledge a continuous and enduring mission.

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed noted that, in the spirit and blessings of the holy month, the graduates similarly return to their university – to the place where their first dreams took shape, to the halls that nurtured their ambitions, and to the professors who illuminated their paths.

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed, President of the University of Sharjah, outlined the purpose of the annual alumni gathering and the university’s vision behind it, addressing the graduates by saying: “Your return is not simply a visit; it is a renewal of commitment and a reaffirmation that the bond between a student and their university does not end at graduation. Rather, it marks the beginning of a new phase of giving, engagement, and belonging. At the University of Sharjah, we do not regard you as former graduates, but as lifelong partners in our journey of growth and development. You are the ambassadors who carry the university’s name wherever you go, and the bridges that connect the past to the present, and the present to the future.”

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed underscored the vital role graduates play in the university’s continued development, drawing on their professional experience, expertise, and real-world skills. He affirmed that the university welcomes their involvement in inspiring current students, identifying future needs, and contributing to the enhancement of academic programmes. He also highlighted their importance in enriching the student experience and mentoring the next generation.

President of the University of Sharjah stated that the university has established Alumni Association branches in various countries to strengthen communication among graduates, support professional development, and create networks for collaboration and mutual support.

He concluded by affirming, “The doors of your university are always open to you. We take pride in your achievements, celebrate your successes, and stand beside you at every stage of your journey.”

Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed and the attendees then viewed a presentation entitled “The Alumni Association: A Renewed Commitment and Lasting Support,” which highlighted the association’s significance and its role in deepening ties between graduates and the university.

Dr Amna Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment and an alumna of the University of Sharjah, delivered an inspiring address during the ceremony. She described the university’s annual graduation event as a reflection of the visionary leadership of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and Founder of the University of Sharjah.

She emphasised that he firmly believes the most valuable and enduring investment is in people, and that nurturing minds is the fundamental pillar upon which nations are built and progress.

She also reflected on her academic journey as a member of the first graduating class of the University of Sharjah. She highlighted the rich educational and professional opportunities available to students, as well as the vibrant campus activities and strong academic support provided by faculty members.

WAM