Al ain: The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) hosted its ‘Great Arab Minds Session’ at the UAEU Library Auditorium, featuring winners of the Great Arab Minds Award, academics, and national and international researchers.
According to Emirates News Agency, the session opened with remarks by Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the UAE President and Chancellor of UAEU. He affirmed the significance of the Great Arab Minds initiative, highlighting the contributions of Arab thinkers, creators, and scientists throughout history and in the present era.
Nusseibeh emphasized the integral role of Arab contributions in the development of science and human thought globally. He noted that these contributions have shaped scientific approaches and research methodologies across civilizations. He further stated that the initiative affirms the authority of Arab intellect through its perspectives, questions, and interpretations. UAEU aims to connect scientific achievement with the human dimension by directing research toward community service and fostering a balanced understanding of the role of knowledge in shaping the future.
He also stressed that human advancement is achieved through an integrated knowledge system that combines knowledge with meaning and responsibility, not solely through technology.
The session featured two main themes. The first theme, ‘Rethinking the Future: Arab Contributions to Science and Technology,’ explored Arab achievements in basic and applied sciences, as well as the role of scientific research in supporting innovation and anticipating future challenges. Speakers included Prof. Nivine Khachab from KAUST, Prof. Badi Baltagi from Syracuse University, with Dr. Omar Al Bastaki from UAEU moderating the session.
The second theme, ‘Health, Society and Humanities: The Broader Impact of Arab Scholarship,’ focused on research’s role in advancing public health, addressing social issues, and enhancing the humanities’ contribution to public policy. Speakers included Dr. Nabil Seidah from the Montreal Clinical Research Institute, Prof. Oussama Khatib from Stanford University, and Dr. Suad Amri from Riwaq Center, with Dr. Lemya Alhmoudi from UAEU moderating.
The session concluded with an open discussion and the honoring of participating speakers, recognizing their scientific and intellectual contributions. This reflects UAEU’s commitment to supporting intellectual initiatives that enhance the presence of Arab minds in the global scientific and knowledge landscape, while linking research to human and societal priorities.