Abu dhabi: Khalifa University of Science and Technology has put forth a strategic proposal to establish a new “Frontiers of Engineering” symposium series for the Arab world. The initiative was discussed during high-level meetings with the US National Academy of Engineering (NAE) in Washington, DC. The series aims to mirror the Grainger Foundation Frontiers of Engineering annual meetings.
According to Emirates News Agency, the discussions were led by Professor Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, alongside Dr. Ray O. Johnson, Senior Advisor to the President, and Professor Samuel Mao, Senior Director of the Resource Management and Sustainability Institute. They engaged with NAE President Dr. Tsu-Jae Liu and Executive Officer Dr. Alton Romig Jr. The focus was on enhancing collaboration and creating a platform for emerging engineering leaders in the Arab region.
Professor Al Hajri emphasized the university’s expanding research initiatives, highlighting its five strategic research priority areas and newly established interdisciplinary research institutes. These are designed to tackle both national and global challenges. Dr. Johnson presented on the Khalifa University Enterprise Company (KUEC), which is the university’s arm for commercial and technology transfer, showcasing successful engineering research initiatives.
Dr. Samuel Mao, an alumnus of the NAE Frontiers of Engineering program, shared his experiences and the positive influence of the NAE program on his academic and research career. He supported the idea of establishing a similar symposium series for the Arab world, which he believes would help connect emerging leaders and enhance cross-border collaboration.
Professor Al Hajri stated that the Arab world has a rapidly growing community of talented engineers and researchers contributing significantly to global innovation. He expressed that the proposed symposium series would provide a crucial platform for fostering engineering research and technological advancement. It aligns with Khalifa University’s mission to be a regional hub for advanced engineering research and innovation.
The proposed series also supports the UAE’s science diplomacy agenda, which prioritizes international collaboration and knowledge exchange. It seeks to position the UAE as a global leader in scientific and technological dialogue.