American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) Executive Education and Professional Development has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with the Global Centre for AI Excellence (GCAIE) to build national AI capability and support the growth of the AI economy across government and enterprise sectors. 

The agreement was signed by Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and Dr. Yousef Saadeh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of GCAIE, in the presence of senior executives from both institutions.

Under the agreement, AUS Executive Education and GCAIE will jointly develop a portfolio of executive education programs, professional certifications and organizational capability-building initiatives aligned with the Global AI Excellence Model (GAIEM), GCAIE’s framework for helping governments, enterprises and institutions adopt AI in a structured and measurable way. These include AI Excellence Fundamentals, AI Excellence Practitioner, AI Excellence Assessor and Lead AI Excellence Assessor pathways, as well as executive programs focused on AI governance, responsible AI adoption, organizational readiness and AI-enabled transformation. 

“AI has become a strategic imperative for organizations seeking to remain competitive and resilient,” said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. “Our collaboration with GCAIE supports the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 by preparing leaders and professionals with the skills, governance mindset and practical capabilities needed for the next phase of the digital economy. Through this partnership, AUS is contributing to Sharjah’s and the UAE’s ambition to become a regional and global center for innovation, excellence and future-ready talent.”

“The next wave of AI advantage will not come from access to technology alone, but from the ability to build trusted, sovereign and AI-native organizations,” said Dr. Yousef Saadeh, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of GCAIE. “As governments and enterprises accelerate AI adoption, leadership capability, governance and workforce readiness will become key differentiators. Through our collaboration with AUS, we are helping develop the talent, capabilities and institutional foundations needed to translate AI ambition into sustainable economic and societal value.”

As part of the collaboration, AUS and GCAIE will also explore opportunities for thought leadership, knowledge exchange and industry engagement that support standards-based AI practices and organizational transformation across Sharjah and the wider GCC. 

AUS Executive Education equips leaders, professionals, and organizations with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving world. Combining AUS’ academic excellence with industry expertise, it delivers practical, future-focused programs in leadership, strategy, AI, sustainability, entrepreneurship, public policy and professional development to drive career growth and organizational impact. 

For more information about AUS Executive Education, please contact:ece@aus.edu.

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American University of Sharjah (AUS) honored the achievements of its Class of Spring 2026, the university’s largest graduating class to date, during two commencement ceremonies held at University City Hall in University City of Sharjah, in the presence of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of AUS. The occasion brought together graduates, families, faculty, staff and guests to celebrate a defining milestone for 842 graduates as they completed their AUS journey and prepared to begin a new chapter as members of the university’s global alumni community.

HH Sheikha Bodour said: “Rather than an end to learning, graduation is the beginning of a new phase of possibility – and responsibility. The Class of 2026 leaves AUS at a time of fundamental change, but they’re equipped with the knowledge, confidence and the capacity to influence the future with integrity. The world today needs builders – people who are willing and able to devise solutions to its problems, to strengthen human cohesion and contribute to society. We take great pride in preparing our graduates for that role.”

“Commencement is one of the most meaningful moments in the life of AUS because it shows, in the clearest way, the impact of our mission,” said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. “The Class of Spring 2026 has completed its studies at a time shaped by rapid change, regional and global uncertainty, and rising expectations of what graduates must contribute to society. These students leave AUS with more than academic knowledge. They carry the ability to think critically, act with integrity, adapt with confidence and lead with purpose. As they begin their next chapter, they join a community of AUS alumni whose reputation with employers and impact across sectors continue to strengthen the university’s standing in the UAE, the region and beyond.”

Speaking on behalf of the graduating class during the morning ceremony, electrical engineering graduate Daniel Zakaria Indrawes delivered the address “Leading Through Uncertainty.” He spoke about the transition from the structure of university life to a world without fixed syllabi or clear rubrics, noting that AUS had prepared graduates not only to face uncertainty but to lead through it. His address highlighted the intellectual honesty, commitment to excellence and adaptive judgment developed through years of rigorous academic work and shared challenges.

In the evening ceremony, finance graduate Ariana Karzai delivered the address “Reading the World at AUS.” Drawing on the meaning of Iqra, the Arabic word for “read” and the first word revealed in the Quran (Islam’s holy book), she spoke about education as both a privilege and a responsibility, recalling her personal journey from Afghanistan to the UAE and the responsibility graduates carry as they step into a complex world. She urged her classmates to continue seeking knowledge, reading the times with courage and understanding the hearts of others with compassion. 

The commencement program also honored members of the AUS faculty whose contributions have shaped the university’s intellectual life and institutional development. Dr. Vernon Pederson from the Department of International Studies, Dr. Yousef Salamin from the Department of Physics and Dr. Adil Tamimi from the Department of Civil Engineering received the title of Professor Emeritus, while Dr. Jamal Abdalla from the Department of Civil Engineering was recognized as Distinguished Professor. 

Outstanding student achievement was also celebrated during the ceremonies. The President’s Cup was awarded to Timothy Joseph in computer engineering, Abdallah Mohamad Saleh in electrical engineering and Joud N. H. Hamdan in mathematics, each of whom achieved a cumulative GPA of 4.00. The Chancellor’s Cup, which recognizes high academic achievement and significant contribution to student life at AUS, was awarded to Muhammad Vidha in industrial engineering and Sanjana Bharwani in management. The award recognizes students who stand out through leadership, community service, student engagement and a positive impact on their peers. 

The commencement also marked a historic milestone for AUS, with alumna Rana Jamshed being the first graduate of the university’s PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in finance program. Her AUS journey began in 1997, when she joined the university’s pioneer student cohort and later became one of its first graduates. Nearly 25 years after earning her first AUS degree, she added another chapter to that journey by completing her doctoral degree. She now holds three degrees from AUS: a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in accounting and finance, a Master of Business Administration and a PhD in Business Administration with a concentration in finance.

“What a wonderful journey: once a pioneer student at AUS and now a doctoral graduate. For 25 years, AUS has been my home for education, friendships and community,” she said. “I am deeply grateful for the experiences, professors and opportunities that shaped both my academic and professional path, and I look forward to continuing to grow and give back to the AUS community as an elected Alumni Council member.” 

The commencement also saw the graduation of the first cohort of AUS’ Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sciences and Sustainability program, affirming the university’s growing focus on sustainability and future-focused education. 

The Spring 2026 graduating class included 842 students in total, comprising 714 undergraduate students and 128 graduate students. The class included 450 women and 392 men representing 55 nationalities, including 193 UAE nationals.

As the Class of Spring 2026 joins the AUS alumni community, its members become part of a global network known for professional readiness, leadership and impact. In the QS World University Rankings 2027, AUS ranks first in the UAE for employer reputation and among the top three for employment outcomes. AUS is also ranked fourth in employer reputation in the Arab region (QS, 2026), underscoring the strong confidence employers place in AUS graduates and the university’s continued success in preparing alumni who are ready to contribute to their professions and communities. To learn more about AUS, visit www.aus.edu.

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American University of Sharjah (AUS) has achieved its highest-ever position in the QS World University Rankings, ranking 258 globally in the 2027 edition, an improvement of 14 places from 2026. This milestone places AUS among the top 17% of universities ranked by QS worldwide and maintains its position among the top three universities in the UAE, in a ranking that included 1,504 institutions globally. 

AUS now outperforms 83 percent of ranked universities worldwide, reflecting continued progress in its global standing.

This sustained upward trajectory reflects a long-term pattern of improvement, with AUS rising from the 401–450 band in 2013 to its current position among the world’s top 260 universities. Progress has been driven by consistent gains across key areas, including graduate employability, research impact, academic reputation and sustainability, reinforcing the university’s position as one of the leading universities in the UAE and the region.

“This result reflects AUS’ continued progress and commitment to academic excellence. Rising to its highest-ever position in the QS World University Rankings reinforces the strength of our academic model and the impact of long-term investment in our students, faculty and research ecosystem,” said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. 

He added: “What stands out this year is the strength of performance across areas that define institutional impact such as graduate employability, research influence, sustainability and internationalization. These outcomes reflect AUS’ mission to prepare globally competitive graduates and to produce research that addresses real-world challenges and supports sustainable development.”

AUS continues to demonstrate strong graduate outcomes, with 95 percent of Spring and Summer 2024 graduates gaining employment within 12 months of graduation. This contributed to a major improvement in the category of employment outcomes, where AUS rose 112 places globally and ranked third in the UAE in 2027. Based on QS data, there is a strong demand for AUS graduates in the labor market.

AUS also ranks first in the UAE in the category of employer reputation, maintaining its leadership in one of the most important indicators of institutional quality. This ranking means that employers see AUS alumni as among the most job-ready graduates from universities in the UAE. This is a testament to the talent and ambitions of AUS students and alumni, whose success across engineering, design, business and sciences have earned them strong recognition from employers in the UAE and around the world. This also reflects the university’s sustained support through employer engagement and long-standing industry partnerships. 

Research performance at AUS strengthened significantly, with notable improvements in the categories of citation impact and scholarly output. AUS is ranked third in the UAE for research impact and has improved its global position in this indicator by 74 places. This performance reflects the strength of the AUS research ecosystem, which includes six research centers, 22 research groups and 11 endowed chairs and professorships, supporting innovation and collaboration across sustainability, manufacturing, healthcare and the creative industries. Interdisciplinary work also spans artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, advanced materials and cultural heritage.

In the category of sustainability, AUS rose in the global rankings by 44 places and ranks third in the UAE, reflecting continued advancement in environmental stewardship, social responsibility and governance. This progress is driven by the integration of sustainability principles across teaching, research, campus operations and community engagement, which reflects sustainability’s growing role as a key pillar of AUS’ institutional strategy aligned with global priorities and regional development goals.

AUS is also recognized for its highly international campus community, ranking among the top five universities in the UAE for its number of international faculty and international students. Its student body represents more than 103 nationalities, placing AUS among the most internationally diverse universities in the world. This reflects AUS’ identity as a global university in the Middle East, promoting cross-cultural learning and global citizenship.

For more information about AUS rankings, visit www.aus.edu/rankings.

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Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court, Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Humaid Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council, attended today the graduation ceremony of the seventh cohort of Emirates National Schools–Sharjah Campus, named the Year of the Family 2026 Cohort.

The ceremony, held at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre, celebrated the graduation of 158 students in the presence of a number of sheikhs, senior officials, members of the school’s Board of Directors, administrative and teaching staff, and parents.

Ahmed bin Mohammed Al Humairi, Secretary-General of the Presidential Court and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Emirates National Schools, praised the achievements of the schools and their role in preparing academically and leadership-capable generations able to contribute to the nation’s development through advanced educational programmes that employ the latest artificial intelligence technologies and promote sustainability and innovation.

He congratulated the graduates and their families on the achievement and expressed confidence in their ability to continue excelling academically and to represent the UAE in the fields of science, knowledge and innovation.

For his part, Lachlan Mackinnon, Director-General of Emirates National Schools, said the success reflected the effectiveness of the schools’ vision in developing students academically, nationally and personally, and preparing them for future requirements through an educational environment that supports creativity, leadership and community service.

The graduates expressed pride in their accomplishments and commended Emirates National Schools for helping develop their skills and strengthen the values of national identity and belonging. They also thanked the UAE leadership for its continued support of the nation’s youth and expressed appreciation to H.H. Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan for his sustained patronage.

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Sheikh Dr. Khalid bin Humaid Al Qasimi presented certificates to the graduates and wished them success in their university studies and future careers. The school administration also honoured Sheikh Dr. Khalid with a commemorative shield in appreciation of his attendance and participation in the celebration.

Established in 2015, Emirates National Schools–Sharjah Campus serves more than 2,572 students and provides high-quality education that combines international academic standards with national identity.

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Sharjah Education Academy celebrated the graduation of its fourth cohort, comprising 641 graduates, during an official ceremony held at University City Hall in Sharjah. The ceremony was attended by Dr. Muhadditha Yahya Al Hashimi, President of Sharjah Education Academy, members of the Board of Trustees, the Chancellor, senior officials, educational leaders, and the graduates’ families.

The graduates were distributed across ten academic and professional programmes, offered in Arabic and English through separate learning pathways. The cohort included 344 graduates from the Postgraduate Diploma in Education, 13 from the Postgraduate Diploma in Educational Leadership, 86 from the Master of Education in Teacher Leadership, developed in collaboration with the University of Helsinki in Finland, and 15 from the Master of Education in Educational Leadership, offered in partnership with the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto in Canada. A further 183 graduates completed the Early Childhood Education Certification for Teaching Assistants.

Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashimi affirmed that the ceremony was an occasion of pride, celebrating a new cohort of the Academy’s graduates who have chosen to carry the noble mission of education and the shaping of the human being.

She noted that the Academy’s journey began with the inspiring directive of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to establish a specialised academy dedicated to the advancement of teachers and educational leaders. This vision, she said, is rooted in the belief that building the human being precedes the building of nations, and that the teacher is the cornerstone of the renaissance of peoples and the making of the future.

She added that the graduation of the fourth cohort reflects the Academy’s continued commitment to translating this vision into tangible reality through specialised academic and professional programmes that prepare teachers and educational leaders to create a positive impact in the field of education. Her Excellency called on the graduates to carry the trust of education with pride and sincerity, to make every classroom a space for hope, every student a project for success, and every day an opportunity to leave a lasting impact.

Dr. Muhadditha Al Hashimi also extended her appreciation to the graduates’ families, as well as to every teacher, educator, and educational leader who contributed to supporting this journey. She further expressed the Academy’s deepest gratitude to His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, affirming that this promising assembly of educators embodies the fruits of His Highness’s vision and renews Sharjah’s enduring covenant with knowledge and learning.

This graduation marks the culmination of half a decade of continuous contribution, during which Sharjah Education Academy has played a pivotal role in preparing and qualifying educational professionals, including teachers and educational leaders. Through its programmes, the Academy equips them with the knowledge, practical skills, and applied tools needed to lead school improvement and respond to the rapid transformations taking place across the education sector, further strengthening Sharjah’s position as a leading regional and international centre for educational development.

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American University of Sharjah (AUS) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Zayed Education Foundation, creating a formal basis for joint initiatives that expand opportunities for students, faculty and the wider community.

Under the agreement, the two institutions will explore cooperation on a scholarship program for AUS students, research clusters, endowed research chairs, postdoctoral fellowships, PhD grants, innovation and entrepreneurship projects, leadership development, professional growth and community engagement.

AUS is now included among the participating universities under the Ruwwad Zayed Program, a merit-based university scholarship for high-potential Emirati and Arab youth based in the UAE pursuing master’s degrees in priority fields for the region. The program provides full academic funding, tailored leadership development and comprehensive support services designed to strengthen scholars’ academic, personal and professional growth. AUS programs currently listed under Ruwwad Zayed include the Master of Arts in International Studies, Master of Urban Planning, Master of Science in Machine Learning and Master of Science in Economics and Policy.

“This MoU reflects the kind of purposeful partnership that creates lasting value for students, universities and the wider UAE community,” said Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS. “Our collaboration with Zayed Education Foundation brings together access, academic excellence and national impact. By linking scholarship support with research, innovation and leadership development, we are helping create pathways for talented students to pursue advanced study, contribute to priority fields and develop the skills needed to serve society with purpose. AUS is proud to be listed under the Ruwwad Zayed Program and to support an initiative that invests in the next generation of leaders, innovators and changemakers.”

A Zayed Education Foundation spokesperson said: “We are pleased to formalise our partnership with American University of Sharjah, reflecting our shared commitment to supporting the UAE’s vision of investing in human capital as a cornerstone of sustainable development. The Ruwwad Zayed program is a flagship initiative that brings this partnership to life, empowering talented youth with the knowledge, values and global perspective needed to lead with purpose. Through this collaboration, we aim to strengthen leadership and foster a generation capable of driving inclusive growth and prosperity.”

The partnership reflects AUS’ continued commitment to building strategic collaborations that expand opportunities for students and faculty, strengthen research and innovation ecosystems and connect academic excellence with real-world impact. Through its partnerships with government entities, foundations, industry and community organizations, AUS continues to create new pathways for scholarships, research funding, entrepreneurship, professional development and student success, reinforcing its role as a leading institution contributing to the UAE’s knowledge economy and future-ready talent agenda.

For more information about AUS, visit www.aus.edu.
For more information about the Ruwwad Zayed Program, visit www.zayededucationfoundation.org/en/scholarships/ruwwad-zayed. 

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The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has signed an agreement with SANAM Group’s education platform to develop a new K-12 school in Sharjah Sustainable City.

The project, with an investment value expected to reach up to USD 50 million over the coming years, will be developed on a 29,275-square-metre plot owned by Shurooq in Sharjah Sustainable City, located in Um Fanain / Al Ruqa Al Hamra. The school will follow the American curriculum and serve around 2,435 students from kindergarten to Grade 12 under a 35-year agreement.

The signing took place at Al Bait Al Westi and was signed by Yousif Al Mutawa, Chief Real Estate Officer of Shurooq, and Dr. Sulaiman Tareq Al Abduljader, Vice Chairman and CEO of SANAM Group Holding Company

Strengthening education infrastructure in Sharjah’s growing communities

The new school will add key education infrastructure to Sharjah Sustainable City, one of the emirate’s leading residential communities designed around sustainability, family living and integrated services.

The project supports Shurooq’s efforts to activate strategic land assets through long-term partnerships that respond to the needs of Sharjah’s growing communities. By bringing a full K-12 school into Sharjah Sustainable City, the development will provide families in the area and surrounding neighbourhoods with access to quality education close to home.

Yousif Al Mutawa: “A project that supports families and creates long-term value”

Yousif Al Mutawa said: “This agreement reflects Shurooq’s commitment to developing projects that respond to the practical needs of Sharjah’s communities while creating long-term value from strategic land assets. Educati

on is one of the most important components of a complete residential community, and this school will support families, enhance quality of life and contribute to the development of a more connected and liveable environment in Sharjah Sustainable City.”

He added: “Our partnership with SANAM Group’s education platform reflects the importance of working with specialised private sector partners that bring long-term vision and operational expertise. The project also reinforces Sharjah’s ability to attract serious investment into sectors that support human development, community growth and sustainable urban planning.”

A modern campus for future-ready learning

The school will be designed as a modern, student-centred learning environment that integrates advanced technologies, sustainability, wellbeing and collaborative learning across all academic stages.

The campus will include modern classrooms, science laboratories, information technology facilities, robotics, engineering and mathematics labs, maker and innovation spaces, and three libraries serving kindergarten, primary and upper school stages.

It will also feature open learning hubs, arts studios, a black box theatre and a 500-seat multi-purpose hall, supporting a learning environment that brings together academic learning, creativity, culture and collaboration.

Facilities designed around wellbeing, safety and student experience

The kindergarten section will be designed as an independent area with dedicated privacy and safety measures, including a separate entrance, reception and security procedures, as well as direct access to secure outdoor play areas.

The school will also include a learning support centre with therapy and sensory integration rooms, counselling offices, and three separate clinics for boys, girls and isolation cases.

Sports and recreation facilities will include an indoor sports hall, activity studio, football pitch, outdoor courts, a main swimming pool, a learner pool, rooftop recreational areas and a healthy cafeteria. The campus will also include green spaces, a botanical garden, internal courtyards, informal seating and play areas, and shaded pedestrian walkways.

The design will support smooth movement and safety across the campus through separate access routes for kindergarten, parents and buses, on-site bus parking, staff and parent parking, electric vehicle parking, bicycle facilities, monitored entry gates and safe pedestrian pathways.

SANAM Group Holding Company: Supporting Sharjah’s education ecosystem

Dr. Sulaiman Tareq Al Abduljader said: “Our strategic partnership with Shurooq marks a pivotal step in advancing SANAM’s long-term vision for sustainable education investments that meet the aspirations of students across the GCC. Sharjah’s position as a leading hub for sustainable urban and educational development makes it an ideal destination for projects of this nature. Together, we look forward to developing an integrated educational environment that enables academic excellence and is defined by innovation, sustainability, and community engagement, while delivering sustainable value for future generations.”

The new sustainable school project represents a significant milestone in SANAM Group Holding Company’s expansion efforts across the GCC, reinforcing its position as a diversified holding company with growing investments in the education sector. It also aligns with broader regional trends, driving demand for advanced educational ecosystems and sustainable communities. Upon completion, the project will further support SANAM’s strategic focus on responsible investment and long-term value creation through impactful projects that contribute meaningfully to social and economic development across the GCC.

Enabling community-focused developments

The project reflects Shurooq’s wider role in enabling community-focused developments that support Sharjah’s residential growth, strengthen quality of life and attract long-term private sector investment into key sectors.

Upon completion, the school will add a major education asset to Sharjah Sustainable City and support the emirate’s continued development as a destination for family living, sustainable communities and future-ready education.

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The executive education programme “Leading Through Crisis: Before, During and After Disruption” hosted by American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) Executive Education, brought together senior business leaders and corporate decision-makers from government, semi-government and leading private sector organisations across the UAE on May 21 at AUS.

An invitation-only platform for senior leaders, the programme addressed one of the most pressing leadership challenges of our time: how to lead with clarity, confidence and strategic foresight in environments shaped by volatility, uncertainty and rapid change.

Opening the programme, Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of timely dialogue on leadership in complex environments.

The programme also featured a keynote by Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer of Mubadala, followed by a fireside chat with him, during which he shared insights on how organizations can lead through periods of disruption by strengthening trust, maintaining clarity and aligning communication with decisive action.

Dr. Salah Brahimi, Vice Chancellor for External Relations at AUS, said the programme reflected the university’s commitment to creating high-value platforms that connect academic expertise with the leadership priorities of industry and the wider community.

“Crisis leadership has become a defining capability for organisations operating in today’s environment. Through this programme, AUS brought together senior leaders, faculty expertise and experienced practitioners to examine how decision-making capacity, organisational resilience and leadership readiness can be developed before crises occur. This reflects our broader role in connecting knowledge with practice, strengthening industry engagement and supporting leadership development that responds to the needs of the UAE and the wider region,” he said.

A key component of the programme was “When Crisis Comes to Your Door: The Decisions That Determine What Comes Next,” a masterclass led by Dr. John E. Katsos, Professor of Management at AUS and a two-time nominee for the Nobel Prize. Drawing on research-based frameworks and real-world case insights, the session examined why traditional crisis playbooks often fail under pressure and how decisions made before disruption can shape an organization’s ability to respond, protect trust and recover with resilience.

“Most organisations treat crisis as an interruption. The evidence says otherwise. Crises often cascade rather than end: a military shock becomes an economic shock, then a talent crisis, then a question about whether an organization can continue to operate with confidence in a given market.

The leaders in my research who navigated these moments most effectively were those who had built distributed authority, deep local relationships and honest information channels before anyone called it a crisis. This is what we teach executives at AUS. The quiet period after the first wave of crisis is the window to build what the next wave will test. That window closes faster than leaders expect, and many organizations spend it focused on survival rather than preparing for what comes next,” said Dr. Katsos.

Building on the focus on decision-making under pressure, participants joined “Executive Self-Regulation in Crisis: Leading with Clarity Under Pressure,” an interactive workshop led by Randy Helou, Managing Director of Synertia Consulting, and a leadership facilitator and executive coach. The session explored how leaders can manage stress responses, restore clarity and use practical tools such as the “Pause, Process, Proceed” method to guide teams more effectively during volatile moments.

“Our focus is to design executive learning experiences that respond directly to the realities leaders face in the market. This program addressed a critical need for senior leaders: building decision-making capability before crises occur, strengthening resilience within teams and engaging with real-world perspectives from executives who have led through complex environments,” said Sheikha Nouf Al Khalifa, Executive Director of Executive Education at AUS.

“As a hub for lifelong learning, AUS Executive Education is committed to supporting leaders, professionals and organizations through future-focused, regionally relevant and practice-oriented learning that responds to the evolving needs of the UAE, the GCC and beyond,” she said.

Reflecting on the value of the programme and its relevance to senior leaders navigating uncertainty, Dr. Mohammad Hourani, CEO of Saif Al Ghurair Foundation, said: “The event offered timely and practical insights into crisis leadership, reminding us that resilience must be built before disruption occurs through proactive planning, continuous reflection and people-centered leadership. It highlighted proactive communication as a critical tool to protect human capital and strengthen business resilience during uncertainty.

The discussions also reinforced that failure in times of crisis often comes from overconfidence, delayed reflection and slow reassessment of assumptions. Equally important was the emphasis on empowering teams closest to the challenge to act with agility, ownership and speed. Every crisis is different, but resilient leaders are those who reflect on vulnerabilities, adapt quickly and guide their organizations to emerge stronger.”

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The executive education program “Leading Through Crisis: Before, During and After Disruption” hosted by American University of Sharjah’s (AUS) Executive Education, brought together senior business leaders and corporate decision-makers from government, semi-government and leading private sector organizations across the UAE on May 21 at AUS. An invitation-only platform for senior leaders, the program addressed one of the most pressing leadership challenges of our time: how to lead with clarity, confidence and strategic foresight in environments shaped by volatility, uncertainty and rapid change.

Opening the program, Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of timely dialogue on leadership in complex environments. The program also featured a keynote by Brian Lott, Chief Communications Officer of Mubadala, followed by a fireside chat with him, during which he shared insights on how organizations can lead through periods of disruption by strengthening trust, maintaining clarity and aligning communication with decisive action.  

Dr. Salah Brahimi, Vice Chancellor for External Relations at AUS, said the program reflected the university’s commitment to creating high-value platforms that connect academic expertise with the leadership priorities of industry and the wider community.

“Crisis leadership has become a defining capability for organizations operating in today’s environment. Through this program, AUS brought together senior leaders, faculty expertise and experienced practitioners to examine how decision-making capacity, organizational resilience and leadership readiness can be developed before crises occur. This reflects our broader role in connecting knowledge with practice, strengthening industry engagement and supporting leadership development that responds to the needs of the UAE and the wider region,” he said.

A key component of the program was “When Crisis Comes to Your Door: The Decisions That Determine What Comes Next,” a masterclass led by Dr. John E. Katsos, Professor of Management at AUS and a two-time nominee for the Nobel Prize. Drawing on research-based frameworks and real-world case insights, the session examined why traditional crisis playbooks often fail under pressure and how decisions made before disruption can shape an organization’s ability to respond, protect trust and recover with resilience. 

“Most organizations treat crisis as an interruption. The evidence says otherwise. Crises often cascade rather than end: a military shock becomes an economic shock, then a talent crisis, then a question about whether an organization can continue to operate with confidence in a given market. The leaders in my research who navigated these moments most effectively were those who had built distributed authority, deep local relationships and honest information channels before anyone called it a crisis. This is what we teach executives at AUS. The quiet period after the first wave of crisis is the window to build what the next wave will test. That window closes faster than leaders expect, and many organizations spend it focused on survival rather than preparing for what comes next,” said Dr. Katsos.

Building on the focus on decision-making under pressure, participants joined “Executive Self-Regulation in Crisis: Leading with Clarity Under Pressure,” an interactive workshop led by Randy Helou, Managing Director of Synertia Consulting, and a leadership facilitator and executive coach. The session explored how leaders can manage stress responses, restore clarity and use practical tools such as the “Pause, Process, Proceed” method to guide teams more effectively during volatile moments. 

Bringing practical regional and international perspectives into the discussion, the panel “Real Crises, Real Decisions: Perspectives from Gulf Executives” explored real-world crisis leadership, operational resilience, cybersecurity risk and geopolitical complexity. Moderated by Ryan Highland, a geopolitical risk consultant, the discussion featured Eleanor Berry, Crisis Manager for Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa at Mastercard; Dr. Joe Battikh, Senior Partnership Manager at Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence; Philippe Lopez, Head of Cyber Governance for ENOC Group; and Scott Wilcox, Founder and Senior Advisor at Sicuro Group. The conversation highlighted how crises rarely unfold according to fixed plans, requiring leaders to balance speed, judgment, communication and accountability while managing operational, digital and geopolitical risks. 

“Our focus is to design executive learning experiences that respond directly to the realities leaders face in the market. This program addressed a critical need for senior leaders: building decision-making capability before crises occur, strengthening resilience within teams and engaging with real-world perspectives from executives who have led through complex environments,” said Sheikha Nouf Al Khalifa, Executive Director of Executive Education at AUS. 

“As a hub for lifelong learning, AUS Executive Education is committed to supporting leaders, professionals and organizations through future-focused, regionally relevant and practice-oriented learning that responds to the evolving needs of the UAE, the GCC and beyond,” she said.

Reflecting on the value of the program and its relevance to senior leaders navigating uncertainty, Dr. Mohammad Hourani, CEO of Saif Al Ghurair Foundation, said: “The event offered timely and practical insights into crisis leadership, reminding us that resilience must be built before disruption occurs through proactive planning, continuous reflection and people-centered leadership. It highlighted proactive communication as a critical tool to protect human capital and strengthen business resilience during uncertainty. The discussions also reinforced that failure in times of crisis often comes from overconfidence, delayed reflection and slow reassessment of assumptions. Equally important was the emphasis on empowering teams closest to the challenge to act with agility, ownership and speed. Every crisis is different, but resilient leaders are those who reflect on vulnerabilities, adapt quickly and guide their organizations to emerge stronger.” 

AUS Executive Education serves as a regional hub for practical, future-focused learning, supporting leaders, professionals and organizations through custom and open-enrollment programs aligned with evolving market needs. Building on AUS’ academic excellence, industry partnerships and faculty expertise, it offers practice-oriented learning across areas such as leadership and strategy, AI and technology, sustainability and ESG, public policy, entrepreneurship and professional skills. It is also expanding its portfolio of accredited and certified offerings to strengthen leadership capacity, industry engagement and professional growth across the UAE and beyond.

For more information about AUS Executive Education, visit
www.aus.edu/admissions/executive-and-continuing-education.

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The My FarmWell Application project has been named the winner of the 4th edition of the Excellence and Creative Engineering Award presented by the Society of Engineers UAE under the Pioneer Engineering Project category.

The project received recognition as the “Best Small Project”, highlighting its contribution to sustainable water management, smart agriculture, and artificial intelligence-driven engineering solutions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). According to the award description, a small project is defined as a project valued at up to AED 50 million and completed within the last three years. Since the launch of the award, 79 winners have emerged from a total of 1,268 submissions across different engineering categories, reflecting the highly competitive nature of the program and the growing innovation landscape within the UAE engineering sector.

The Society of Engineers UAE was established in 1979 through Ministerial Decree No. 33 and today represents one of the largest professional engineering bodies in the region, with more than 40,000 members. The award recognizes projects that demonstrate engineering excellence, innovation, sustainability, and measurable impact on society. The My FarmWell Application was developed to support farmers and improve groundwater sustainability through the integration of artificial intelligence, environmental monitoring, and digital decision-support technologies.

The platform combines well water level monitoring, irrigation management tools, sustainable farming tips, chatbot for on-the-spot specialized responses to queries, links to water regulations and crop prices, detailed weather information, and data-driven insights to help users make informed agricultural and water management decisions in the UAE and the broader Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

The application is available for download on App Store and Google Play. The project reflects a collaborative effort involving the University of Sharjah, IBM, and Khalifa University, alongside contributions from government agencies, researchers, technical teams. The initiative aligns with broader national efforts to enhance water security, improve resource efficiency, and accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies in agriculture and environmental management.

The project was led by Dr. Adewale Giwa, Assistant Professor at the University of Sharjah, whose research focuses on water sustainability and artificial intelligence applications. Through the My FarmWell initiative, Dr. Giwa and the research team worked on developing practical digital solutions capable of supporting farmers with groundwater monitoring, irrigation management, and sustainability awareness.

IBM played a major role in supporting the project through collaboration and innovation-driven engagement under the IBM Impact Accelerator initiative. The partnership contributed to the integration of artificial intelligence, data analytics, and digital technologies within the platform to improve groundwater management and support sustainable agricultural practices.

The recognition of My FarmWell highlights the growing importance of interdisciplinary engineering solutions that combine artificial intelligence with sustainability-focused innovation. By addressing challenges related to groundwater depletion, agricultural water use, and climate resilience, the project demonstrates how digital technologies can contribute to long-term environmental sustainability and smarter resource management practices. The award marks an important milestone for the project and reinforces the role of innovation-driven engineering research in supporting sustainable development goals within the UAE and beyond.

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