Sharjah's Leader Evaluates Progress at Al Dhaid University

Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, presided over the Board of Trustees meeting at Al Dhaid University on Monday, where key achievements and future projects were assessed.

He commended the institution’s continuous strides in agricultural and veterinary education and noted how quickly it is advancing towards its research and academic objectives. The Ruler specifically pointed out the strong performance of students and the high quality of specialized programs in science, agriculture, and veterinary medicine.

His Highness remarked that Sharjah universities are benefiting from collaborations with globally recognized academic institutions, which have helped enhance educational programs and accreditation through internationally aligned courses.

Emphasizing the need for ongoing educational improvements, Sheikh Sultan noted the esteemed reputation Sharjah universities have gained, owing to their robust scientific research and substantial academic contributions.

The Board reviewed various administrative and educational plans aimed at boosting institutional effectiveness and laying foundations for long-term success. Reports from various committees, including Finance and Academic, were also discussed.

The university highlighted its recent accomplishments, including advancements in educational infrastructure, such as the debut of a mobile veterinary clinic and a smart farm designed to give students more practical learning experiences.

Augmented student facilities with modern equipment were outlined as part of the university’s mission to prepare adept professionals for agricultural and veterinary careers while contributing to sustainability efforts.

The Board also deliberated on partnerships with prestigious international universities to create dual-degree programs in niche areas, alongside a summer training initiative for students from the Royal Agricultural University projected for 2026.

Chancellor Aisha Ahmed Bushlaibi provided an overview of significant achievements, revealing the accreditation of its Skills Development Center by a UK-accredited body and research progress throughout the academic year.

Post-meeting, Sheikh Sultan inspected a student exhibition showcasing innovative sustainability and food security projects. Ideas included enhancing soil quality, conserving water, and using natural resources to treat crop damage.

The exhibition also presented sustainable farming systems that integrate fish farming with vertical agriculture to aid UAE's environmental and food security objectives.

Sheikh Sultan evaluated projects in veterinary medicine and public health, including initiatives to raise awareness about the responsible use of antibiotics and their risk to both human and animal health, as well as modern teaching technology utilized in labs.

He also visited the university's mobile veterinary clinic, emphasizing its role in helping students sharpen their clinical skills and understanding community needs within veterinary care.

During his tour, Sheikh Sultan assessed ongoing and future university expansion plans, including a new 1,000-seat auditorium with cutting-edge features, classrooms, workshops, and multi-use halls.

He also reviewed designs for a mosque at the university, featuring a men's prayer area accommodating 1,400 worshippers and a women's area for 450.

Plans for agricultural laboratories and facilities to bolster practical training in sustainable practices and food security were also highlighted.

The university is enhancing its student amenities, such as adding 640 shaded parking spaces for better service.

Sheikh Sultan later attended the Sharjah Agricultural and Livestock Production Foundation exhibition showcasing new organic food products, including Mleiha dried milk, mozzarella, and premium chocolate.

EKTIFA announced plans to launch high-protein milk for athletes and a new honey line called “Zahrat Al-Samar.”

Officials revealed a vision to introduce approximately 140 organic products to UAE markets over the coming three years, reinforcing local food production and sustainability.