CELEBRATING INSPIRING IDEAS TO EMPOWER FUTURE LEADERS UKF CONCLUDES "HUNT FOR DIAMONDS" COMPETITION

University of Khorfakkan (UKF) concluded its flagship entrepreneurship competition, Hunt for Diamonds with a special awards ceremony honouring the most inspiring and innovative ideas. The initiative aligns with the university’s strategic vision to foster a culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development within the academic community. The event was held in the presence of esteemed guests, including Prof. Mohammed Baniyas, Higher Education Advisor at Sharjah Private Education Authority; H.E. Dr. Hashem Al Zaabi, Chancellor Sharjah Maritime Academy and member of the university’s Board of Trustees; H.E. Eng. Abdulrahman Al Naqbi, Director of Khorfakkan Municipality and member of the university’s Board of Trustees and Mr. Khalfan Al Harethi, Director of Branches at the Sharjah Economic Development Department, along with faculty, staff, and students. Launched in January, the competition attracted dozens of entries from students, faculty, and staff. Submissions spanned across innovative tech solutions, sustainable environmental and health projects, and impactful community initiatives. A specialized panel of experts in innovation and entrepreneurship evaluated the entries based on creativity, feasibility, and societal impact. The winners were announced during the ceremony, with the first prize awarded to Murad Ali from the Department of Sociology at the College of Arts, Sciences, and IT. The second place went to a collaborative team from the College of Marine Sciences and Aquatic Biology: Yaman Bashar, Yaseen Saleh, Mohammed Ahmed, Suleiman Khamis, and Hamdan Saif. Third place was secured by Jasem Mahboob, also from the Department of Sociology. Finalists with outstanding ideas were also recognized. In his remarks, Prof. Ali Hilal Alnaqbi, Chancellor of the University , expressed pride in the participants' high level of creativity and skill. He emphasized the university’s commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship as key pillars for shaping the future and enhancing graduates’ competitiveness in the job market. “We believe in our students’ potential and talents,” he said. “Our role as a university goes beyond education — it includes empowerment, mentorship, and providing the supportive environment necessary to transform ideas into real achievements.” He further encouraged students to be bold and innovative: “Every idea has a beginning, and every dream has a path. Start from where you are, embrace the journey, and don’t fear failure — it’s part of the road to success. Remember, you are in a university that believes in you and supports you every step of the way.” The organizing committee, represented by the Department of Research and Innovation in collaboration with the university’s colleges, announced that the winning projects will receive comprehensive support, including hands-on training and expert mentorship to bring their ideas to life. The University reaffirmed its commitment to continuing such transformative initiatives that help students develop real-world entrepreneurial skills and contribute to sustainable development locally and globally.