Sharjah Ruler signs co-op agreement between UFK, Exeter University

emirates7 - H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University of Khorfakkan (UFK), expressed gratitude for the fruitful collaboration between Sharjah's universities and the esteemed University of Exeter in the UK. He highlighted that this partnership plays a crucial role in advancing academic and research systems in Sharjah, leading to exceptional scientific outcomes for students.

During the signing ceremony of a cooperation agreement between UFK and the University of Exeter, the Ruler of Sharjah formally signed the agreement with Dr. Lisa Roberts, President of the University of Exeter. He noted that this agreement is significant because it allows UFK students enrolled in the Marine Sciences and Aquatic Life Program to complete their senior year at the University of Exeter, resulting in graduates receiving two distinct degrees—one from Khorfakkan University and the other from Exeter.

The Ruler emphasized the comprehensive nature of the collaboration, which includes not only student exchanges but also joint research and scientific initiatives. Faculty members from the University of Exeter are set to visit the University of Khorfakkan and the upcoming Khorfakkan Centre for Marine Sciences and Aquatic Life. Their involvement is anticipated to enhance the centre's operations, improve scientific research, and elevate UFK to international standards.

He expressed deep appreciation to the University of Exeter for its long-standing partnership with Sharjah and praised its commitment to fostering scientific and academic collaboration aimed at advancing humanity through the dissemination of knowledge and the development of students.

Dr. Lisa Roberts, President of the University of Exeter, expressed her gratitude to the Ruler of Sharjah for his significant efforts in enhancing educational experiences in the emirate. She acknowledged his continuous support in providing education for Sharjah’s future generations and his commitment to developing higher education institutions and fostering collaborations with international universities. These efforts have been crucial in advancing academic fields and nurturing unique specializations in the region.

Dr. Roberts highlighted Exeter's strong academic partnerships with Sharjah universities, which have significantly contributed to students' academic and professional growth across various scientific disciplines. She praised the collaboration with UFK and indicated that it would encourage the conduct of specialized studies benefiting students and the region's future. Additionally, she emphasized the potential for student exchange programs between the two universities, providing students with distinguished scientific experiences.

This agreement continues Khorfakkan University's collaborations with esteemed institutions worldwide, particularly in marine sciences and aquatic life research. It aims to facilitate joint activities that benefit students by providing valuable educational opportunities that contribute to their academic and personal growth.

Under the terms of the agreement, fourth-year UFK students specializing in marine sciences and aquatic life can study at the University of Exeter, provided they meet the admission criteria. The agreement also opens avenues for UFK graduates to pursue master’s degree programs at Exeter.

Moreover, the memorandum seeks to facilitate the exchange of scientific, academic, and professional knowledge through organized visits between the two universities to foster advancements in various fields.

After the signing ceremony, the Ruler of Sharjah, accompanied by the University of Exeter delegation, UFK’s Board of Trustees, and various officials, visited the Khorfakkan Centre for Marine Sciences and Aquatic Life project located on Khorfakkan beach. He was briefed on the project's progress and completion rates, examined the plans, and familiarized himself with the facilities and services the centre will offer to researchers and students.

The Khorfakkan Centre is set to provide an innovative research environment along the coast of Khorfakkan city, featuring specialized laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technologies, including genetics, environmental chemistry, marine anatomy, advanced electron microscopy, microbiology, and remote sensing facilities. The centre aims to lead research in marine sciences, environmental engineering, and marine conservation and sustainability, focusing on building partnerships with academic institutions and stakeholders to promote marine conservation initiatives locally and globally while attracting top expertise in the field.

The implementation of this project exemplifies Sharjah's commitment to sustainable development and its forward-thinking strategies aimed at protecting its ecosystems.