This Thursday morning, Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, President of the University of Sharjah, presided over the graduation ceremony for 252 graduate students. The ceremony took place at the University City Hall, celebrating the academic achievements of the master's and doctoral graduates.

During his address, Sheikh Sultan emphasized the significance of this milestone, describing graduation not as the end of an educational journey but as a gateway to new horizons and challenges in pursuit of dreams. “Success,” he stated, “is always the ally of the determined, and achievement belongs to those who strive for it with diligence. Today, I address you and your fellow graduates of the University of Sharjah: you are not merely graduates but the architects of tomorrow, embodying the future your nations aspire to build.”

He urged the graduates to embrace determination and believe in their capabilities, saying, “You may face difficulties, and doubt may knock on your door, but always remember that determination is the fuel for success. The impossible is just a word for those who believe in themselves. Be among those who do not fear challenges but turn them into ladders for advancement.”

Highlighting the critical role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the modern world, Sheikh Sultan stressed AI’s transformative impact across all fields, saying. “In a rapidly changing world, artificial intelligence has become an integral part of life, not just as a technical tool but as a driving force for innovation and development. Keeping pace with this advancement is no longer optional but essential for anyone aspiring to excel and lead.” He advised graduates to integrate AI into their professions, emphasizing the need to not just use AI but actively contribute to its creation. Sheikh Sultan pointed out that the future belongs to those who master AI skills, adapt to its tools, and leverage its capabilities effectively. 

In a notable moment, Sheikh Sultan revealed that portions of his speech were generated using AI, illustrating the potential of technology to support thought and creativity. He affirmed the irreplaceable role of human intellect, describing technology as a tool that facilitates achievement and progress. Sheikh Sultan also reminded the graduates that "Today, the University bids you farewell, but knowledge does not. Progress does not stop with a diploma; it continues with every step of learning, every experience you undertake, and every accomplishment you achieve. You now carry the banner of the future, of change and innovation. Carry it with determination and pride.”

Sheikh Sultan concluded his speech by congratulating the graduates of Fall 2024 for their outstanding achievements and extended his gratitude to the students' families for their unwavering support and encouragement. He wished the graduates success in their future endeavors and a fruitful journey of serving their nations and advancing their fields.

The graduation ceremony commenced with the UAE national anthem and a recitation of verses from the Holy Quran. Following the opening, Professor Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah delivered a speech expressing gratitude to Sheikh Sultan for attending and ceremony celebrating the achievements of this cohort of master's and higher diploma students. He congratulated the graduates and their families on their success. 

Professor Al Naimiy extended his deep appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, the founder of the University, for his unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of education and innovation. He prayed for His Highness's continued success in advancing the institution’s mission to remain a beacon of knowledge and creativity.  In concluding his remarks, Professor Al Naimiy urged the graduates to be outstanding ambassadors of the University, using their acquired knowledge, skills, and expertise to serve their communities. He encouraged them to embody innovation and excellence in their fields while adhering to sound scientific principles in all their endeavors. 

Representing the graduates, Khawla Saif Al-Mazrouei delivered a heartfelt speech expressing the joy and pride felt by her fellow graduates. She described the ceremony as a day to crown their efforts, celebrate their perseverance, and harvest the fruits of their hard work.  She said, “Today, I stand before you on behalf of all my colleagues, expressing our collective gratitude to everyone who contributed to establishing and supporting the development of this great academic institution. The University of Sharjah has provided us with a pioneering educational environment that combines excellence and creativity. I extend my deepest thanks to the President of the University, who has joined us today, highlighting his unwavering commitment to supporting and empowering youth to lead in building a brighter future.”

Al-Mazrouei commended the University’s leadership and faculty members, whose roles extended beyond education to serve as a source of inspiration, guidance, and support. She noted that their efforts have left an indelible mark on the graduates’ memories as they embark on their future endeavors. 

In her closing remarks, Al-Mazrouei urged her peers to carry the torch of change and creativity, moving forward with confidence and inspired by the vision of the wise leadership of the University. She emphasized that graduation is not the conclusion of their journey but the commencement of a new chapter of excellence and service.

She concluded her speech by dedicating this achievement to the graduates’ parents, describing them as the true pillars of support throughout their educational journey. She acknowledged their prayers, sacrifices, and unwavering encouragement as the key to reaching this momentous occasion. Al-Mazrouei wished her peers continued success and more accomplishments that would contribute to the nation's development. 

During the ceremony, student Fahad Al-Badri delivered a heartfelt poetic tribute to the University of Sharjah, celebrating the graduation event with eloquent verses. Al-Badri’s poem expressed his deep affection for the UAE and the University, highlighting the pride and honor of being part of such a prestigious institution. 

He began his recitation with the following lines: 

In every day, every hour, every fleeting moment My heart beats with love for the UAE

No word, no verse, no book I glean  Could ever fill this love’s wide ravine

Greetings and peace, from a poet keen  From the land of heritage and realms pristine 

To Sharjah, the home of leaders and sultans supreme  A land whose banners touch the heights of dreams

Al-Badri concluded his verses with an expression of admiration for the University of Sharjah and its founder: 

How could you not lead in the grand arenas  With Sultan, the embodiment of heroism, as your founder?

And for those who wonder where Sharjah can be seen, Let them search for it among galaxies serene.

Under its ruler, may peace mark his life  His loyalty known by those who’ve read My Early Life

The poem captivated the audience, blending patriotism, respect for leadership, and pride in the University’s accomplishments, adding an artistic touch to the graduation ceremony.

His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, President of the University of Sharjah, conferred graduation certificates upon the graduate students, congratulating them on their achievements and academic success, and wishing them continued success in their future endeavors.

The graduates, who completed their studies across various graduate programs, were from the University's diverse academic colleges, including: the College of Sharia and Islamic Studies, the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, the College of Business Administration, the College of Engineering, the College of Health Sciences, the College of Law, the College of Communication, the College of Medicine, the College of Pharmacy, the College of Science, the College of Computing and Informatics, and the College of Public Policy. Of these graduates, 244 earned master’s degrees, while 8 received Postgraduate Diplomas.