H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, officially opened the Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre in Khorfakkan, marking a significant step for marine research and education in the UAE. The centre is equipped with advanced laboratories, specialized facilities, and international collaborations aimed at fostering scientific innovation and environmental sustainability.
Advanced facilities for marine research
During the inauguration, Sheikh Dr Sultan unveiled the commemorative plaque and toured the centre’s numerous sections. The research facility houses 12 specialized laboratories, including histology, wet labs, microbiology, and environmental analysis. He was also introduced to the Advanced Microscopy Centre, the Marine Chemistry Analysis Unit, and high-tech facilities for remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS).
Key infrastructure features include:
- An integrated experimental tank system
- A seawater treatment plant
- A dedicated marine research port
- A scientific diving training facility
The Ruler observed demonstrations of state-of-the-art instruments used to detect marine pollution, monitor bacterial growth, and separate contaminated from clean water samples. He also reviewed methods for measuring solid waste and marine debris and examined both polluted and clean water samples.
Student research and academic programs
The centre is a hub for student-led research under academic supervision, enabling fieldwork and data analysis that contributes to global scientific publications. These efforts enhance the UAE’s international research standing and position Sharjah for membership in global marine science organizations.
Students briefed Sheikh Dr Sultan on their practical training programs, part of the four-year Bachelor’s degree in Marine and Aquatic Sciences offered in partnership with the University of Exeter (UK). Graduates receive professional certifications, including scientific diving, preparing them for careers in government, private industry, and academia.
Highlighting student achievements, the Ruler met winners of the Sharjah Government Communication Award – Universities Challenge category. Their project, “Ocean Sustainability,” featured a prototype advanced submarine equipped with smart sensing technologies designed to monitor the marine environment and develop protective solutions. This accomplishment underscores the creativity and leadership of University of Khorfakkan students in innovation and research.
Academic partnerships and global collaboration
Sheikh Dr Sultan toured the centre’s classrooms and specialized library, which houses a wide range of marine science references. The centre collaborates with international institutions such as:
- University of Exeter
- Plymouth Marine Laboratory
- National Oceanography Centre
- University of Cambridge
These partnerships are designed to drive global leadership in marine research through multidisciplinary collaboration, advanced innovation, and direct engagement with world-renowned scientists and experts. Students expressed gratitude for the specialized facilities, which they said represent a qualitative leap in their education and research, supporting national initiatives to protect marine environments and sustain natural resources in line with Sharjah’s human and environmental development vision.
Recognitions and strategic vision
As part of the ceremony, Sheikh Dr Sultan presented honorary professorships from the University of Exeter to:
- Dr Ali Hilal Alnaqbi, Chancellor of the University of Khorfakkan
- Dr Steven Kidman, Director of the Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre
- Dr Henrik Stahl, Dean of the College of Marine and Aquatic Sciences
These recognitions honor their contributions to establishing and managing the centre and their dedication to safeguarding marine ecosystems while advancing initiatives that benefit both humanity and nature.
The centre’s long-term goal is to become a world-leading institution in marine science research and ocean sustainability. It will serve as a cornerstone for advancing the sustainable blue economy, supporting the UAE’s economic growth, and nurturing expertise in marine molecular biology, microbiology, marine ecology, evolution and development, and wildlife biology, with a focus on the UAE’s unique coastal ecosystems.
Ceremony attendance
The inauguration was attended by senior officials and dignitaries, including:
- Sheikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Qasimi, Chairman of Sharjah Ports, Customs and Free Zones Authority
- Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations
- Amna Al Dhahak Al Shamsi, Minister of Climate Change and Environment
- Dr Abdullah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Consultative Council (SCC)
- Members of the University of Khorfakkan Board of Trustees
Their presence highlighted the strategic importance of the centre in advancing marine research, education, and sustainability in Sharjah and the UAE.
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