Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University of Al Dhaid, reviewed the expansion plans for the university's projects during a Board of Trustees meeting at the university's headquarters. H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed expressed appreciation for the Board of Trustees' efforts and accomplishments in the previous period, noting the challenges faced by institutions in agricultural science and food security projects due to inadequate facilities.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting highlighted the university's commitment to providing resources for both theoretical and practical education through specialised colleges and programmes. These include the College of Agriculture and the College of Veterinary Medicine, supported by facilities such as laboratories, farms, and animal pens. The President of the University affirmed that these initiatives have led to the production of organic products, including Mleiha dairy and Sabaa Sanabel wheat, proudly originating from Sharjah.
H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed also shared his personal efforts in establishing a seed bank to preserve plant species and their genetic diversity, containing around 5 million seeds. He approved the relocation of the seed bank to the University of Al Dhaid to enhance scientific research and training for agriculture students.
During the meeting, the Board of Trustees approved the establishment of two new colleges: the College of Computing and Intelligent Systems, and the College of Environmental Sciences. This expansion aims to address modern labour market demands and support sustainable development and artificial intelligence initiatives. They also approved a dual degree programme in Sustainable Agriculture with the Royal Agricultural College in the UK.
The Board reviewed reports from various committees, reflecting on their activities over the past period, and discussed numerous administrative and educational topics. Dr Aisha Abu Shlaibi, Chancellor of the University, presented the executive summary of the academic year 2024-2025, highlighting achievements and ongoing work.
Additionally, H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed visited student lounges, veterinary laboratories, and other facilities, assessing the expansion projects underway at the university. He also explored the Sharjah Products Exhibition featuring local products from the Emirate, demonstrating the university's role in supporting local agriculture and production.
The meeting concluded with a lunch hosted by H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed, featuring local delicacies. The event was attended by several distinguished guests, including prominent figures from the fields of agriculture, education, and public works.