PROMISING ACADEMIC VISION FROM SHARJAH TO THE WORLD UKF IN THE THIRD UNITED NATIONS OCEAN CONFERENCE

Reaffirming its advanced academic standing and active role in supporting global environmental efforts, University of Khorfakkan (UKF) emerged as a key scientific participant in the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), held in Nice, France. This major global forum is dedicated to the protection of marine environments and the promotion of ocean sustainability, bringing together representatives from governments, policy-makers, experts, and academics from around the world. The university’s participation reflects its commitment to leading academic and research efforts in developing innovative scientific solutions for marine conservation, exchanging knowledge, and building international partnerships to address the challenges facing life below water. Through its distinguished College of Marine Sciences and Aquatic Biology, the University plays a pivotal role in preparing specialized national talent in marine sciences and biodiversity. The University was represented by its Chancellor Professor Ali Hilal Alnaqbi, and Dr. Henrik Stahl, Dean of the College of Marine Sciences and Aquatic Biology. Both took part in key scientific dialogue sessions at the conference, focusing on the role of universities in supporting the blue economy. They also highlighted the University’s efforts in coral reef restoration, marine pollution monitoring, and the role of Sharjah Marine Science Research Centre in advancing sustainability, applied research, and environmental policy development. The University delegation also showcased UKF’s strategies for ocean investment, the application of artificial intelligence to monitor marine biodiversity, and the University’s expanding network of international research collaborations aligned with Sharjah’s vision for sustainable environmental development. The conference welcomed several high-profile attendees, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, and Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, who participated in several dialogue sessions, scientific workshops, and accompanying events. At the conclusion of the conference, the University delegation presented key recommendations, including, Establishing a solidarity fund to support research in marine and social sciences, Developing interdisciplinary academic tracks to foster educational integration, Promoting environmental awareness among school and university students, and Forming specialized national teams to expand marine studies across the UAE. These initiatives aim to strengthen sustainable environmental culture both within the UAE and across the region.