The University of Sharjah (UoS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Sharjah Electricity, Water, and Gas Authority (SEWA) to enhance joint efforts in scientific research and sustainable solutions for environmental and societal challenges. This partnership underscores the University's commitment to serving the local community and fostering collaborations with both local and international institutions. 

The MoU was signed by Prof. Maamar Bettayeb, Vice Chancellor for Research and Graduate Studies at UoS, and Dr. Hassan Al Zarouni, Director of Research and Studies at SEWA. 

Areas of Collaboration

The agreement aims to bolster joint research efforts in several key areas, including: 

• energy efficiency and achieving environmental sustainability
• water management and desalination, along with the development of alternative energy sources
• upgrading electricity, water, and gas distribution networks
• energy conservation
• improving renewable energy, public health, and cybersecurity technologies

  and

• analyzing protection, and artificial intelligence systems.

 

The collaboration will also include advanced training programs, and workshops for SEWA staff, and the organization of scientific conferences to discuss developments and best practices in energy and environmental fields. Additionally, the MoU provides internship opportunities for UoS students, fostering integration between academia and industry. 

Commenting on the significance of this initiative, Prof. Maamar Bettayeb praised the partnership, emphasizing the University of Sharjah's ability to deliver innovative solutions to societal challenges through its research centers and specialized teams. He noted that this collaboration reflects the University's commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering a stimulating educational environment.

Prof. Bettayeb highlighted that the University boasts over 80 specialized research teams across various scientific and academic fields. These teams are equipped to address complex issues and propose scientifically and practically viable solutions. He further emphasized that the University's advanced research infrastructure, including state-of-the-art laboratories and modern equipment, plays a significant role in achieving these objectives. This is further supported by the active involvement of graduate students and specialized researchers.

Dr. Hassan Al Zarouni highlighted the significance of the partnership in promoting scientific innovation and achieving sustainable development goals. He underscored SEWA’s pivotal role in developing energy and water projects in collaboration with academic institutions. “This agreement is a vital step in strengthening the collaboration between the academic and industrial sectors, contributing to innovative solutions for energy and water challenges, and positioning the UAE as a leading hub in sustainability and renewable energy,” he stated. 

The signing ceremony was attended by prominent representatives from both organizations. 
Attendees from the University of Sharjah were Prof. Esam Agamy, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation, Dr. Salah Taher Al Haj, Vice Chancellor for Community Affairs, Prof. Rabih Halwani, Director of the Sharjah Institute for Medical Research, and Dr. Noura Al-Karbi, Head of the Research Outreach Department.  Engineer Ahmed Salem Al Bass, Deputy Director of Electricity Distribution, and a team of engineers, including Rashid Galban, Mohammed Al-Hassani, Johnson John, Maitha Al Baroud, Maitha Al Mazmi, Noor Patterson, and Roaa Al Khateeb represented SEWA at the signing ceremony.