Arabian Gulf University (AGU) received a delegation from the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi headed by Dr. Shaikha Salem Al Dhaheri, Secretary General of the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi, on a visit to discuss ways of enhancing cooperation in the field of environmental research and studies. The visit included an extensive review of the activities and achievements of the two parties with the aim of integrating research, academic and field efforts.

The visit began with the Environment Agency - Abu Dhabi presenting its strategic objectives that focus on protecting the environment, preserving natural resources and promoting sustainability. The delegation also reviewed the agency’s ongoing pioneering projects such as biodiversity monitoring programs, maintaining air quality, and plans to combat climate change, in addition to awareness initiatives targeting the local community. Dr. Shaikha Al Dhaheri also touched on the “Jaywun” research vessel, a beacon of innovation equipped with the latest equipment in the field of marine research to conduct a wide range of comprehensive surveys. 

For his part, Dr. Saad bin Saud Al Fuhaid provided a comprehensive introduction to AGU and its prominent environmental programs including the Shaikh Zayed Academic Chair for Environmental Sciences, established in 1997 with a permanent endowment from the Zayed Charitable and Humanitarian Foundation in the UAE. The Chair is concerned with issues of biodiversity and wildlife and environmental management, specifically policies related to energy and climate change.

Since its establishment, the Chair has graduated over 40 masters’ and diploma students in Environmental Management, over 60 in Environmental Sciences at, in addition to 12 doctoral students. The Chair has also funded the scholarship of several Environmental Management graduates for PhD studies in the UK. The Shaikh Zayed Chair has held 7 scientific seminars on environmental issues with the participation of regional and international officials, experts, and academics.

The two parties also discussed potential areas of cooperation, including developing joint training programs, implementing applied research to solve regional environmental challenges, and organising events aimed at spreading environmental awareness and promoting a culture of sustainability. The visit concluded with an emphasis on the importance of strengthening partnerships between academic institutions and environmental bodies to achieve sustainable development.