Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah (UoS) , the University organized the 15th International Conference on Hydrogen Production. The event aims to provide a platform for researchers, scientists, academics, industry professionals, and specialists to explore hydrogen as a primary energy source, fostering sustainable and clean energy practices. 

The conference, which runs over four days, features more than 120 research papers presented in 20 sessions by leading experts from 25 countries. Discussions cover a wide range of topics, including hydrogen production technologies using solar energy, hydrogen economics and infrastructure, transportation, delivery, and storage mechanisms, regulatory policies, decarbonization efforts, and transitioning from the dependency on fossil fuels to the use of clean energy from hydrogen. Additional subjects include synthetic and alternative fuel generation and biological aspects of hydrogen production. 

The conference opened with remarks by Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, who welcomed attendees and thanked His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi for his continuous support of the University’s achievements. Prof. Al Naimiy emphasized that the conference serves as a vital platform for experts worldwide to exchange ideas and expertise on hydrogen technologies. He also highlighted the University’s commitment to collaborating with local and international partners to develop practical and sustainable solutions, aligning with its strategic focus on advancing research, innovation, and global energy sustainability. 

Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies, reiterated the University’s dedication to pioneering projects in hydrogen production and storage as part of its 2024–2030 strategic plan. He stressed that hydrogen represents a promising solution to global energy challenges and offers immense potential for sustainability.

Prof. Abdullah Shanbleh, Director of the Research Institute of Sciences and Engineering, described the conference as an excellent platform to showcasing advancements in hydrogen production and storage technologies. He noted that the University hosts specialized research groups and advanced centers committed to developing effective solutions for a sustainable future. 

Prof. Abdul-Ghani Olabi, Director of the Renewable Energy and Power Systems Research Center emphasized the conference’s role in driving innovation and advancing hydrogen technologies. He highlighted the importance of leveraging opportunities such as this conference to ensure the global use of sustainable energy sources and facilitate a transition to a clean energy economy. 

A renowned expert on clean energy systems, Prof. Ibrahim Dincer from Ontario Tech University, Canada, expressed his enthusiasm for participating in the conference. He noted that selecting the University of Sharjah to host the conference represents a remarkable opportunity. Moreover, Prof. Dincer noted that the conference, which began in 2008 with the support of the Canadian government and international partnerships, plays a pivotal role in addressing all aspects of hydrogen technology including its production, storage, distribution, and utilization.

One of the main research projects presented at the conference was a project titled “Innovative Methods for Hydrogen Production and Transportation: A Sustainable Source of Clean and Renewable Energy" which was conducted by a research team from the University of Sharjah, the American University of Sharjah, and the Sharjah National Oil Corporation.

UoS Signs a MoU with the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Austria

During the conference, the University of Sharjah signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences in Vienna. The agreement focuses on developing sustainable energy systems, waste management for circular economies, and producing green chemicals and fuels from renewable resources and waste materials. It also includes agreements on conducting faculty and student exchanges, and joint academic and research activities, international conferences, training programs, and supervision of academic theses. The MoU was signed by Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah and Prof. Eva Schulev-Steindl, Rector of the University Natural Resources and Life Sciences.The conference concluded with Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy honoring sponsors and researchers who contributed to the event.