The Sharjah Agriculture and Livestock Department has signed a partnership agreement with Al Dhafra University aimed at advancing scientific research in the agricultural and livestock sectors. This collaboration seeks to promote sustainable development within Sharjah and the broader UAE, aligning with national sustainability goals and reflecting a commitment to enhance research initiatives and innovate solutions to challenges faced in these sectors.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Engineer Khalifa Musbah Al Tunaiji, Head of the Agriculture and Livestock Department, and Dr. Aisha Abushalabi, Director of Al Dhafra University, in the presence of Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Head of the Government Relations Department in Sharjah, along with several officials from both sides and faculty members of the university.
This strategic partnership focuses on strengthening cooperation to develop and implement a joint research agenda, as well as preparing and executing professional training programs and specialized workshops for employees across various academic fields.
Under the terms of the partnership, both parties will collaborate to conduct specialized training and practical programs for university students, enhancing their academic and practical skills while developing programs designed to prepare them for the job market. Additionally, both sides will participate in events, activities, conferences, seminars, and lectures sponsored or organized by either party.
Dr. Engineer Khalifa Musbah Al Tunaiji emphasized that the collaboration with Al Dhafra University reflects the Agriculture and Livestock Department’s commitment to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to empower students through training and advance scientific research. He affirmed that the department’s projects, facilities, and research centers are open to university students, particularly in agriculture, livestock, organic food industries, veterinary medicine, and other areas that significantly contribute to strengthening the sector and preparing national talents for sustainable development.
He added that this partnership serves as a pivotal step in reinforcing scientific research efforts and creating innovative solutions to the vital sector, addressing environmental and climate challenges while solidifying its role as a key contributor to the UAE’s food security and economic framework.
Dr. Aisha Abushalabi stated that this partnership extends the vision of the Sharjah Ruler to make science and research foundational to sustainable development.
Furthermore, she mentioned that the partnership exemplifies the university’s dedication to enhancing its role as an active academic research institution serving the community by leveraging its scientific and research capabilities to support agricultural and livestock development plans in Sharjah and the UAE. The university is particularly focused on empowering students through training programs and practical projects that expand their opportunities to gain hands-on experience, equipping them to become national professionals who can contribute to building a sustainable future.
She highlighted that, through this partnership, the university aims to develop a shared research agenda with the department and launch specialized training and professional development programs, along with engaging students in initiatives and activities that foster innovation and practical solutions to environmental and climate challenges.