The Emirates Institution for Advanced Science and Technology (EIAST) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the University of Sharjah (UOS) to promote joint cooperation in the field of applied research and industrial innovation in the UAE.

The MoU emphasizes the commitment of the two organisations to make joint efforts to discuss and develop activities and initiatives, and create more awareness on science and innovation-related issues and to facilitate concrete scientific and technological projects.

His Excellency Mr Ahmed Al Mansoori, Director General and Vice Chair of the Board of Directors, EIAST, and Professor Dr. Engineer Samy Mahmoud, Chancellor, UOS, signed the MoU. Officials from EIAST and the University of Sharjah attended the signing ceremony including Dr. Salim Sabri, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affair, Professor Hamid Al Naimiy, Dean of College of Sciences and President of Arab Union for Astronomy and Space Science, Dr Ali Shaheen, Executive Director, EIAST, and Salem Al Marri, Project Manager, DubaiSat-1, EIAST.

As per the MoU, EIAST and UOS will pursue joint technological research activities related to advanced science and technology, and will discuss joint applied research and development projects. Through the MoU, the two parties will exchange technical and human resources expertise.

Al Mansoori said:

'We are pleased to sign the MoU with the University of Sharjah, which comes in the framework of joint efforts to serve scientific researches and technology in the UAE. The MoU will contribute to developing local human resources by strengthening the culture of innovation and scientific research among UAE nationals. Scientific research is the main pillar of advancement and development base.'

'EIAST seeks to cooperate with international and local educational institutions as we are keen to further reiterate Dubai and the UAE's global image as a leading centre for advanced sciences and technology as per Dubai's strategic plan, as well as a knowledge-based economy,' he added.

The two organisations will hold regular meetings for consultations to set up a mechanism to benefit from researches and implement the programmes agreed upon in the different fields.

Professor Samy Mahmoud said, 'The Emirates Institution for Advanced Science & Technology is one of the distinguished institutions that inspire scientific innovation and foster technological advancement in the UAE. The MoU will enhance cooperation in the fields of participation in introducing advanced technology products, exchange of data and information, training of scientists and technical specialists, exchange of scientists, researchers and technical experts and conducting feasibility studies in various fields such as space, astronomy, energy and others.'