In an important step towards the UAE’s strategic vision of building a globally competitive knowledge-based economy, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) and United Al-Saqer Group (UASG) LLC signed a cooperation and funding agreement to establish a state-of-the-art scientific research centre, which will prepare specialised researchers in several development sectors to meet the requirements of the next 50-year agenda. This agreement translates the UAE’s wise leadership’s vision and aspiration to build a thriving world-class innovative research environment.
The agreement was signed by H.E. Sheikh Abdulla Al Hamed, a member of the Board of Directors of UASG, and Dr. Ali Saeed bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Chairman of ADU, in the presence of Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU and Mr. Nabil Kobeissi, CEO of UASG.
The center’s main objectives include securing stable funding, providing mentorship and training to the students on advanced research methodologies, and fostering collaboration between academia and industries focused on research projects with economic potential to develop new technologies within specific sectors. Additionally, the center aims to improve the quality of innovations while accelerate breakthrough solutions, especially those with commercialized intellectual property rights. As well as lead research on mutually agreed priority topics that will be industry-relevant and lead to intellectual property (IP) generation.
Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University (ADU), said: “This collaboration signifies a crucial milestone in our joint endeavour to advance scientific research and generate impactful research on a global level. With the support of UASG, we aim to deliver transformative outcomes to elevate academic excellence and drive tangible progress for the UAE and beyond. At ADU, we are committed to providing our students, faculty, and community with the latest innovative tools to tackle the challenges of the future and equip them with the skillset needed to become leading figures in innovation.”
Al Saqer Group CEO LLC, Mr. Nabil Kobeissi, stated: “Our partnership with Abu Dhabi University is a testament to our commitment to advancing scientific research in the region. We believe that by nurturing talent and fostering innovation, we are paving the way for a brighter and more prosperous future in UAE and globally.”
Through this collaboration, ADU will provide the necessary infrastructure for the research center, including laboratories and classrooms, as well as attract high-level scientific researchers, and organize student-centered research activities. Additionally, the center will receive a multi-million grant from UASG throughout the upcoming years. Furthermore, both parties will engage with other industry partners to join this collaboration and collectively work towards achieving its aspiration.
ADU and UASG will also work towards establishing mentorship, training, and start-up incubation support programs in the mutually relevant focus areas using UASG industry-specific expertise and global network. The focus areas include life sciences, digital, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and technology, mobility and automotive, engineering, future of living, and innovation in construction among many others.
UASG established in 1980 is one of the leading multi-sector business groups in the United Arab Emirates. UASG owns and operates a diverse yet complementary portfolio of UAE-based companies encompassing several key industry sectors like automotive, heavy equipment, property management, construction, joinery, food and beverages, hospitality, retail, travel, and many other sectors.
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