COINCIDING WITH (COP28) UKF AND UOE LAUNCH "WE ARE THE POSSIBLE" PROGRAM

With the aim of developing students' skills in finding appropriate innovative solutions to various environmental challenges, and raising awareness of the importance of supporting global efforts in reducing the negative effects of climate change, University of Khorfakkan (UKF), in cooperation with the University of Exeter(UOE), , launched the activities of the "We are the Possible" program, at Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai, coinciding with United Arab Emirates (UAE) hosting the 28th Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP 28) Framework. In his speech, His Excellency Prof. Ahmed Al-Shammaa, Chancellor of UKF, welcomed the attendees and participants in the program, stressing the University's awareness of the importance of raising awareness of various environmental issues and its keenness to promote the concepts of sustainability among students, and this comes in line with the directions of the country and the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah and President of University of Khorfakkan in finding sustainable and more effective solutions to improve the quality of life. He praised the efforts made by University of Khorfakkan and the University of Exeter in organizing "We are the Possible" program to link art, science, environment and health, and providing an opportunity for a large number of school and university students from UAE and United Kingdom to participate in presenting their creative ideas to protect aquatic life and advance sustainable development. For her part, Prof. Lisa Roberts, Vice Chancellor and CEO of the University of Exeter, expressed her happiness with the organization of this joint scientific and educational program between the two universities, praising the scientific, academic and research capabilities reflected by the participants, who numbered more than 500 scientists interested in the field of climate and environment, as well as a large number of students to contribute to preserving marine environment and protecting aquatic life from the effects of climate change. She also thanked all the supporting parties and institutions contributed to the success of this program. A group of scientists, researchers, artists, and specialists participated in the program in a unique opportunity to exchange experiences and inspiration. The program included a variety of theatrical and artistic performances that reflect the opinions and ideas of school and university students in various scientific, environmental and artistic fields, including a theatrical performance entitled "Bright Burning Light", various musical performances inspired by poetry anthology entitled "We are the Possible", in addition to a documentary entitled "Schools across the ocean", and poetry readings in Arabic and English entitled "We are the Ocean", in addition to an exhibition of artworks by school children. The programme is sponsored and supported by UK Embassy in the UAE, the Emirates Literature Foundation, Art for All Centre, Met Office, The Theatre of Others and BIMM Music Institute.