Spain visit highlights power of education: Sultan Bin Ahmed
- Last updated: June 29, 2026 | 11:50
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, attended a dinner hosted by the Royal European Academy of Doctors in Spain, in collaboration with the Diplomatic Academy of the Kingdom of Spain and the Consular Corps in Barcelona.
The dinner, held in honour of the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, recognised his distinguished career and acknowledged his efforts, coinciding with his visit to the Kingdom of Spain.
Earlier, the Royal European Academy of Doctors awarded Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed its Gold Medal of Honour in recognition of his outstanding leadership and significant contribution to higher education, as well as his charitable efforts that have supported the advancement of higher education and scientific research.
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed delivered a speech during the dinner, saying: “It is a particular pleasure to conclude our visit, having begun it by celebrating the achievements of our graduates at the University of Barcelona and ending it in the company of such a distinguished gathering, enjoying your generous hospitality and warm welcome.”
The President of the University of Sharjah noted that the visit to Spain reflected the shared belief of both countries and their educational institutions in the power of education to shape the future and improve the lives of many.
He stressed that advancing education and scientific research is a shared responsibility and a lasting investment in humanity.
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed added: “By supporting knowledge creation, innovation, and academic excellence, we empower future generations to address global challenges and drive meaningful progress. It is this very mission, and the Academy’s own unwavering commitment to it, that makes tonight’s honour so meaningful to me.”
The President of the University of Sharjah expressed his sincere appreciation to the Royal European Academy of Doctors in Spain for the prestigious honour, noting that receiving recognition from an institution dedicated to advancing knowledge, culture and international cooperation is a distinction Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed will always cherish.
Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed said: “This honour is not mine alone to hold. Every milestone is made possible by inspiring mentors, supportive colleagues, enabling institutions, and all those whose encouragement gives us the confidence and strength to move forward. To each of them and all of you present tonight, thank you.”
The dinner began with the national anthems of the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Spain, followed by a number of welcoming speeches.
Dr Santiago Velo de Antelo, Executive President of the Diplomatic Academy of the Kingdom of Spain, delivered a speech welcoming the President of the University of Sharjah and the guests. He highlighted the Academy’s efforts and its key initiatives to support diplomatic work, in addition to welcoming new members to further its mission and initiatives.
Dr Alfredo Rocafort, President of the Royal European Academy of Doctors in Spain, also addressed the gathering, welcoming the Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and praising his efforts and achievements.
He expressed his sincere gratitude to Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed for accepting the invitation to the dinner and joining them for the occasion.
The dinner also featured the presentation of a number of awards by the organising institutions, as well as the introduction of new members of the Diplomatic Academy of the Kingdom of Spain.
Recently, Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed attended the graduation ceremony for students of the Colleges of Medicine and Health Sciences.
The event took place at University City Hall in Sharjah. The graduation ceremony commenced with the UAE national anthem, followed by recitation of verses from the Holy Quran.
Sheikh Sultan Bin Ahmed presented graduation certificates to 453 students from the University of Sharjah’s medical colleges.
The graduates included 189 from the College of Medicine, 150 from the College of Pharmacy, 114 from the College of Dentistry, and 423 from the College of Health Sciences.
WAM