His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, President of the University of Sharjah attended the University of Sharjah Alumni Association’s annual ceremony on Saturday evening. The event took place at the Sharjah Academy for Astronomy, Space Sciences and Technology (SAASST) in Sharjah University City.

In his opening address, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi welcomed the attendees and graduates. He then remarked on the significance of this distinguished scientific and social gathering that reunites alumni from various cohorts and disciplines as they return annually to their alma mater. He shared the story of Ibn al-Haytham, the renowned scholar of optics, who studied at the House of Wisdom in Baghdad before traveling to Egypt, where he achieved global recognition. Despite his success, Ibn al-Haytham eventually returned to Baghdad. When asked why he returned to his alma mater, he replied, “I return to give back some of what I have learned. I return to teach as I was taught.” He chose to spend his final years educating and mentoring students, making knowledge a continuous and enduring mission. His Highness noted that, in the spirit of the holy month of Ramadan, the graduates similarly return to their university; to the place where their first dreams took shape, to the halls that nurtured their ambitions, and to the teachers who illuminated their paths.

His Highness then outlined the event's aims and how the university considers it. Addressing the graduates directly, he declared: "Your return is not merely a visit. It renews our pact and affirms that the relationship between student and alma mater does not end with graduation. Instead, it marks the start of a new chapter defined by giving, participation, and belonging. At the University of Sharjah, we do not see you as former graduates. You are permanent partners in our journey of progress. You are our ambassadors, carrying the University's name everywhere you go; you are the bridges linking past to present, and present to future."

Next, he underscored the vital role graduates play in the University’s continuous progress, as it draws on their professional experience, expertise, and real-world skills. He affirmed that the University welcomes their involvement in the activities of the University, inspiring current students, identifying future needs, and contributing to the enhancement of academic programs. He also alluded to the significant role they play in enriching the student experience and mentoring the next generation.

He also informed the gathering that the UoS has established alumni association branches in various countries to strengthen communication among graduates, support their professional development, and create networks for collaboration and mutual support. He concluded his address by affirming, “The doors of your university are always open to you. We take pride in your achievements, celebrate your successes, and stand beside you at every stage of your journey.”

His Highness and the attendees then viewed a presentation entitled “The Alumni Association: A Renewed Commitment and Lasting Support,” which highlighted the association’s important mission and its role in deepening ties between graduates and the University.

Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment and an alumna of the University of Sharjah, delivered an inspiring address during the ceremony. She described the University’s annual graduation event as a reflection of the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, and founder of the University of Sharjah. She emphasized that His Highness firmly believes the most valuable and enduring investment is in people, and that nurturing minds is the fundamental pillar upon which nations are built and progress.

Her Excellency also reflected on her academic journey as a member of the first graduating class of the University of Sharjah. She highlighted the rich educational and professional opportunities available to UoS students, as well as the vibrant campus activities and strong academic support provided by faculty members. She then shared key lessons that shaped her academic and professional path, particularly in the field of sustainability. Among them were the importance of lifelong learning in any environment, the value of attentive listening as a means of acquiring wisdom, the need to seize opportunities, and the cultivation of a growth mindset that encourages continuous self-development and meaningful contribution.

Her Excellency concluded her address by sharing words of advice with her fellow UoS alumni, encouraging them to preserve their passion for knowledge, dedication to their work, and commitment to giving back. She emphasized that this passion is the true engine that sustains ambition and drives the achievement of their goals and aspirations.

At the start of the ceremony, H.E. Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, delivered a speech affirming that, in line with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, President of the University, the institution is steadily advancing toward building a future-focused academic environment. He highlighted the University’s ongoing efforts to update its academic programs, develop its scientific research activities in accordance with international standards, and invest in advanced technologies to provide a deeper, more effective, and impactful educational experience.

Prof. Agamy emphasized that the University of Sharjah Alumni Association is more than a simple communication channel. It serves as a dedicated platform for graduates, providing professional development opportunities, access to high-quality programs, and a wide-ranging network that connects alumni across multiple disciplines. He then announced that His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi had approved the University’s initiative to organize a mass wedding ceremony for its graduates. This socially meaningful initiative aligns with the objectives of the UAE Year of the Family, emphasizing that strong societies begin with stable families.  The proposed event aims to support graduates, promote family stability, and reinforce the values of unity and cohesion that underpin the community.

Prof. Agamy concluded his address to the graduates, saying, “Do not wait for the perfect moment to begin; take the initiative to create and seize opportunities. Start with what you have, build on your accomplishments, and continue to grow. Remember, learning does not end with obtaining a degree; always return to your alma mater and your mentors to continue the journey of knowledge.”

As part of the ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi honored Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, along with the winners of the Ramadan Sports Tournament organized by the Alumni Association. He also recognized the sponsors and supporters of the University of Sharjah Alumni Association, expressing gratitude for their generous contributions and wishing them continued success in their endeavors.

On the sidelines of the ceremony, the Ramadan Village Exhibition for Graduates showcased a variety of displays and products created by graduates from diverse fields, highlighting their projects, businesses, and achievements. In addition, the Sharjah Academy of Performing Arts Choir, part of the University of Arts, delivered a captivating musical performance.

The event was attended by Sheikh Mohammed bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Statistics and Community Development; Dr Mansour bin Nassar, Head of the Sharjah Government Legal Department; Hamad Ali Al Mahmoud, Head of the Department of Economic Development; H.E. Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry; members of the University’s Board of Trustees; faculty and administrative staff; graduates; and representatives of sponsoring companies.