Feature Story

Ajman University Launches the International Arab Conference on Information Technology (ACIT 2023)

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Ajman, Ajman University launched the International Arab Conference on Information Technology (ACIT 2023) in its 24th edition. The conference will be held over 3 days from 6 to 8 December 2023, in collaboration with the Colleges of Computer and Information Society affiliated with the Association of Arab Universities. Additionally, the event was held in partnership with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers - UAE Section.

Prof. Khaled Assaleh, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Amr Ezzat Salameh, Secretary General of the Association of Arab Universities, and Prof. Muhammed Hassan, Secretary General of the Colleges of Computing and Information Society (CCIS), attended the opening ceremony.

Faculty and Staff Spotlight

Inas Abu Sharkh Wins Woman CIO of the Year at GovDX Leadership Summit 2023 

Inas Abu Sharkh, Director of Information Technology, has been honored with the prestigious Woman CIO of the Year Award at the GovDX Leadership Summit & Awards 2023. Her leadership at the University has been pivotal in driving transformative digital projects, markedly enhancing the experiences of faculty, staff, and students. Moreover, the University has not only reached a remarkable 100% digitization milestone but has also realized substantial time and cost efficiencies, coupled with enhanced accuracy and quality of information. This accolade is a testament to her exceptional contributions in the field of digital transformation.

Dr. Atta Khan Discusses Lab-to-Market Challenges at the Innovation Technology Transfer Forum 

Dr. Atta Khan, Associate Professor at the College of Engineering & IT, shared insights on "From Lab to Market: Development and Monetization of Innovative Tech Projects" at the Innovation Technology Transfer Forum hosted by the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park. During the panel discussions, he highlighted the importance of lab readiness, challenges in bridging the lab-to-market gap, and the crucial role of university incubation centers and technology transfer offices. Dr. Khan also emphasized the need for a balance between publications and patents, underscoring their significance in the innovation landscape.

College of Architecture, Art and Design Faculty Shine in Bentley Design Competition

Prof. Naglaa Mahmoud and Prof. Gamal Elsamanoudy, alongside Rana Hakim and Yasmeen Mohamed, presented a remarkable proposal in the Dezeen Awards Interior Design and Bentley competition 2023. Their project, embodying Bentley Motors' ethos of exceptional craftsmanship and technological innovation, offered three distinct design layouts – Wellness, Tradition and Practicality, and Innovative Immersive Experiences. This venture, a culmination of extensive work, uniquely combined traditional design approaches with innovative AI applications, showcasing an authentic interpretation of Bentley's rich legacy.

Global Connections

A Heartfelt Farewell Meeting: Inbound Exchange Students

AU welcomed 21 inbound exchange students for the Fall 2023 semester from countries all over the world including France, Belgium, India, Russia and Germany. The students spent the semester enrolled in AU's programs of engineering, IT, architecture and business. As a farewell gesture, a meeting was organized by the Office of International Academic Affairs in the presence of the Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor for Academic Affairs, the college deans and the students. In a warm and inclusive atmosphere, the Chancellor extended a heartfelt welcome, assuring them that they were valued members of AU's family. The vibrant exchange of ideas and cultures unfolded as each student personally introduced themselves, and shared their enriching academic experience, engagement with student activities, and support provided by the various offices. During their semester, they took part in vibrant Student Life events such as the Club Fair, Global Day, and several sports events. With attentive academic support by the college, guidance and cultural awareness activities by the Office of International Academic Affairs, the students expressed the personal growth and treasured stories acquired during their journey at AU.

Ajman University Hosts Key Meeting with School of Health and Medical Sciences Leadership

Ajman University held a significant meeting with the leadership team of the School of Health and Medical Sciences. The meeting featured distinguished guests, including Prof. Kamalan Jeevaratnam, Head of the School of Health and Medical Sciences, and Prof. Paul Townsend, Chancellor Pro-Vice-Chancellor and Executive Dean for the Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences.

A delegation from Ajman University led by Prof. Khaled Assaleh, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, welcomed them. This gathering underscored the commitment to fostering collaboration and excellence in health and medical education, aligning with the university's vision to enhance academic and research endeavors in these vital fields.

Erasmus + Funded International Visit Strengthens Bonds Between Ajman University and Gdansk University

Dr. Alaeldin Maghaireh, Assistant Professor at the College of Law, went on an international visit to Gdansk University in Poland, funded by the Erasmus + Grant. The aim of the visit was to strengthen the relationship, facilitate knowledge exchange and expand professional networks between the two universities. 

A key highlight of the trip was the teaching program under which Dr. Maghaireh delivered several hours of lectures on cybercrime topics including introduction, AI crimes, cyberbullying, UAE cybercrime legislation, and global collaboration. The content aimed to provide a multidisciplinary exploration of cybercrimes, aligning with contemporary concerns, and offering valuable insights for students, academics, legal professionals, and policymakers.

The visit proved highly beneficial, strengthening ties between the two universities and laid the groundwork for future synergies.

Ajman University Library Achieves Global Recognition

Ajman University Library has recently marked a significant milestone by becoming a member of two prestigious international organizations: the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) and the American Libraries Association (ALA). IFLA, renowned for representing and advocating for the library profession globally, focuses on improving library services and recognizes libraries as vital partners for inclusive, sustainable development. As a member of IFLA, Ajman University Library joins a worldwide voice championing libraries and access to information. Simultaneously, the library's membership in the ALA, the oldest and largest library association based in the United States, aligns with the ALA's core mission of promoting and improving library and information services and the librarianship profession. This dual membership emphasizes Ajman University Library's commitment to enhancing learning and ensuring information access for all, furthering its stance as a leader in the library services sector.

Events

Ajman University Celebrates the UAE's Commemoration Day

In a solemn and patriotic ceremony, Ajman University celebrated the UAE's Commemoration Day in the presence of Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of AU, Cabinet members, and the university community, including staff and faculty. This gathering was a heartfelt tribute to the nation's heroes, reflecting on their sacrifices and the values of loyalty and bravery that are foundational to the UAE. This special day provided an opportunity for the Ajman University family to collectively honor the past while looking forward to contributing to the nation's prosperous future.

The Department of Psychology Witnesses Outstanding Graduation Projects

The Department of Psychology at Ajman University's College of Humanities and Sciences recently held a significant event for the discussion of graduation projects, supervised by Dr. Alaa Al-Sharif. The event, attended by Dr. Mohamed Al-Taher, Dean, and Dr. Rasha Abdel Rahman, Department Head, showcased a series of exceptional research presentations. The discussion committee, comprising esteemed academics Dr. Ahmed AlZubi, Dr. Marai Ahmed, and Dr. Abdel-Rahim Benlahsen, played a vital role in evaluating these projects. The audience was diverse, including heads of institutions in mental health and special education, parents, and fellow students. The projects highlighted crucial issues, with notable research on "Psychological Hardiness and Professional Burnout among Abu Dhabi Government Employees" and "Basic Psychological Needs and Thinking Patterns among University Students."

Green Narratives

The Office of Sustainability and University of Oxford Collaborate at COP28

The Office of Sustainability at Ajman University and the University of Oxford collaborated in the Nature Positive Universities event during COP28 at Expo City. In the "Institutional Pledge for Nature" session, they shared measures taken across campuses to address nature and climate challenges. The "Student Ambassador Showcase" featured initiatives such as Bioblitzes, wildlife engagement, outreach, plastic reduction, biodiversity measurement, and indigenous partnerships. Additionally, in the "Global Showcase of Campus Actions," the universities aimed to inspire global action for nature and climate in higher education and beyond. Discussions in "Connecting the Dots for Greening Education with Sustainability Tribe" underscored sustainability integration and collaboration for greener practices in academic institutions.

Ajman University , WWF International, and Emirates Nature-WWF Announce Progress on the Global Islamic Finance Program to Mobilize Islamic Capital for Climate, Nature and Development

Ajman University , in collaboration with WWF International and AU-CEIF, along with Emirates Nature-WWF, announced significant progress on the Global Islamic Finance Program (GIFP) during COP28. The initiative aimed to mobilize USD 1.5 billion initially, with a long-term goal of channeling between USD 30 to 100 billion of Islamic capital annually. Commencing in Q4 2024, the GIFP, a first-of-its-kind initiative from the Global South, aligned with Islamic principles for sustainable finance solutions, particularly in climate and nature. The initiative addressed the need for inclusive, impactful, and sophisticated financial structures. Islamic Finance, representing over $3 trillion globally, emerged as a natural partner for the sustainability agenda, redirecting capital flows towards positive environmental and social impact.

Amal Alkarbi ‘16 Leads Inclusive Climate Session at COP28

In a significant session at COP28, Amal Alkarbi, General Coordinator at Emirates Autism Society and a notable alumna of Ajman University, highlighted the crucial link between autism and climate action. Alkarbi's presentation emphasized the necessity of inclusive solutions in climate initiatives, advocating for the consideration of individuals with autism. This important event was also marked by the active participation of students and volunteers from the Office of Sustainability. The involvement of these students underscored Ajman University's dedication to sustainability and inclusivity, reinforcing its role as a forward-thinking educational institution in addressing global environmental issues.

Upcoming Events

Dr Karim Seghir, Special Guest Speaker at QS Reimagine Education Conference

Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, will be a distinguished speaker at the prestigious QS Reimagine Education Awards & Conference 2023, often referred to as the "Oscars of Higher Education." This notable event will take place from December 11-13 at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi and will also be accessible virtually.

The conference promises insightful discussions on various topics, such as the future of AI in higher education, innovative approaches in business education, and the development of curricula to foster emerging skills. Additionally, it will explore new learning models for the digital generation, the debate between traditional degrees and stackable skills, and the impact of AI on future employment trends. Don't miss this chance to gain valuable insights from Dr. Seghir and other thought leaders in the field.

Learn more

Ajman University to Showcase Diverse Initiatives at COP28

The University is set to participate in a range of events, including the ReWired Summit, Green Skills Job Fair for Youth, and sessions on Water Resilience, Islamic Finance for Climate and Nature, and the Circular Economy. These events aim to highlight innovative solutions and foster discussions on crucial environmental challenges.

Learn more

The College of Architecture, Art and Design to Host its Fall Camp

The College of Architecture, Art and Design is excited to announce its Fall Camp, a unique opportunity for high school students. This enriching program includes a series of practical workshops and insightful lectures, designed to inspire and educate young minds in the fields of architecture, art, and design. The camp promises an engaging and hands-on experience, providing a glimpse into the creative world of these disciplines. High school students are encouraged to participate and explore their potential in this dynamic learning environment.

AU in the News

Ajman University , WWF International, and Emirates Nature-WWF Announce Progress on the Global Islamic Finance Program to Mobilize Islamic Capital for Climate, Nature and Development Reuters , Zawya , Al Khaleej , Securities Commission Malaysia , Arabia News , Public Now, COP28

Ajman University Launches the International Arab Conference on Information Technology Al Madar Magazine , Nabd , Al Bayan , Ajman News , WAM (Arabic), WAM (English) , Daily Hunt