H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Dhafra Region, and President of Abu Dhabi University’s Board of Trustees, has chaired Abu Dhabi University’s board of trustees meeting.
During the meeting, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan emphasised the critical role of education in fostering national unity, social cohesion, pride in identity, heritage, and accomplishments while striving to embrace modernity, anticipate future challenges, and spread values of goodwill, tolerance and peace globally.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that since the establishment of the union, education has been a fundamental pillar in the vision of the late Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was keen to make education a unifying force that brought together the people of the UAE and aligned their aspirations within the fabric of the union, upholding the noble values of Emirati society.
Sheikh Hamdan pointed out that the education system has been a cornerstone of human capital development since the establishment of the union, equipping the national labour market with skilled Emirati professionals across all sectors to meet the country’s diverse development needs. Over the decades, these specialised national talents have set remarkable examples of excellence, leadership and innovation, leaving a lasting impact on the UAE’s journey of growth, prosperity and progress.
He commended the steadfast support of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan; His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court; and Their Highnesses, the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, saying that their commitment to education ensures it remains a top national priority and a leading driver of global competitiveness.
The meeting was attended by Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Vice President of the Board, along with board members Sheikh Sultan bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, Sheikh Abdulla bin Mohammed Al Hamed, Staff Major General Faris Khalaf Al Mazrouei, Nasser Mohammed Al Mansouri, Dr Sheikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Dr Ali Saeed bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Abu Dhabi University’s Board of Directors, and Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University.
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan expressed his pride and appreciation for Abu Dhabi University’s efforts and its remarkable academic and community achievements at the national, regional and international levels. He highlighted the university’s commitment to effectively translating the directives of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, by prioritising investment in people as an investment in the future. Abu Dhabi University continues to make significant strides as a leading national institution in higher education, excelling in quality performance and delivering educational outcomes that prepare graduates to meet the labour market’s evolving needs in the UAE and the region, guided by the best academic and practical practices.
Sheikh Hamdan Instructed Abu Dhabi University to continue excelling academically, in research, and within the community by implementing programmes and initiatives that align with the nation’s ongoing development and prosperity across all sectors. He underscored the importance of fostering a learning environment that inspires creativity, excellence, innovation, and leadership among students.
During the meeting, Sheikh Hamdan also viewed a presentation by Dr Ali Saeed bin Harmal, outlining the university’s strategic pillars and future academic development plans. The presentation highlighted the university’s vision to solidify its position and enhance its role in the higher education sector locally, regionally and globally. It also detailed upcoming academic programmes and initiatives aimed at meeting evolving labour market demands, particularly in light of the integration of advanced technology and artificial intelligence into education systems. This vision reflects the necessity for educational institutions to keep pace with rapid advancements in these areas.
Professor Ghassan Aouad, Director of Abu Dhabi University, emphasised the university’s commitment to translating the leadership’s directives by maintaining excellence in its academic journey.