Within the framework of the efforts exerted by the University of Sharjah (UOS) to enhance the leadership skills, practices and role of faculty and administrative members, the Institute of Leadership in Higher Education (ILHE) organized “Capacity Building” workshop for department chairs, aiming to provide them with the opportunity to reflect on their leadership styles and identify improvement areas to effectively lead, manage, and mentor new colleagues. The workshop was attended by the UOS Chancellor, Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, as well as vice chancellors, college deans and department heads.

During his speech at the opening session, Al Naimiy welcomed the attendees, stressing the fundamental role of department chairs and faculty members in guiding and mentoring students to effectively serve the community and contribute the sustainability, emphasizing the need to focus on practical implementation and application of theoretical knowledge, and follow innovative teaching methods using advanced technology to promote the educational process, stating that UOS door is always open for support.

Prof. Youssef Al Haik, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, pointed out that this workshop is a great opportunity to enhance capacity, share experiences and provoke ideas between department chairs, stating that the workshop will discuss improving teaching methods, curricula, academic programs, as well as the process of selecting and appointing faculty members.

For his part, Prof. Maher Omar, Director of the Institute of the Leadership in Higher Education, highlighted the competitions organized by UOS to enhance students skills and encourage them to actively participate in developing creative ideas to promote innovative applications, practices and solutions in higher education including the Design for Future Higher Education (D4FE) competition and UOS 3M competition for undergraduate and graduate students.

During the workshop, Prof. Esam El-Din Agamy, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation, addressed the University’s policies, procedures, and accreditations. Dr. Hussein El Mahdi, Dean of Academic Support Services, Secretary of the Dean's Council talked about understanding and handling student’s issues, while Prof. Yousef Haik discussed embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion among UOS faculty members.

Prof. Nadia M. AlHasani, Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Design, highlighted the chairs’ role in enrollment, retention, and student success, while Prof. Sausan Al Kawas, Vice Dean of College of Dental Medicine discussed faculty assignment, evaluation, and mentorship. Prof. Abdul Wahab Bin Mohammad, Dean of the College of Engineering talked about managing new faculty, and department culture change, whereas, Prof. Abbes Amira, Dean of the College of Computing and Informatics discussed sustaining and innovating academic programs.