Professor Scott Richardson, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, Les Roches, UAE
Regional Focus
Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, UAE
Volume 4
June 2025
Multilingual Global Exclusive
Regional Focus
Professor Shehzad Ashraf Chaudhry, Abu Dhabi University, UAE
Student Voice
Ameer Alhashemi, University of Birmingham Dubai, UAE
Leen Mohammed Jamal Zaid, American University of Ras Al Khaimah, UAE
Academic Perspectives
Beyond
the PHD: Diverse Skillsets, Unbounded Possibilities
Dr. Tarika Sankar, Brown University, US
Table Of Contents
Welcome to UniNewsletter
By Laura Vasquez Bass Editor in Chief
Academic Perspectives
Beyond the PhD: Reimagining Academic Labor in the Digital Age
By Dr. Tarika Sankar, Digital Humanities Librarian, Brown University, United States (US)
Leadership Spotlight
A Unique Blend: Combining Esteemed Swiss Educational Traditions and Cutting Edge Innovation in a Global Hospitality Hub
An Interview with Dr. Scott Richardson, Academic Dean, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, Les Roches, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Special Topics
Addressing Skills Shortages in UK Fashion Manufacturing
By Virginia Grouse Head of the School of Arts at the University of Westminster, London, UK
Regional Focus Regional Focus
Goodbye Ivory Tower: Building a Borderless, Inclusive Future at Ajman University
By Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
A Safer Sky for Smarter Deliveries: Securing the Future of Drone-Based Logistics
By Dr. Shehzad Ashraf Chaudhry, Associate Professor of Cybersecurity Engineering, Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Student Voice Student Voice
Building Life-Saving Construction Equipment, Or—What If the Helmet Knew First?
By Ameer Alhashemi, M.Eng. Computer Science and Software Engineering, Student Association President, University of Birmingham Dubai, United Arab Emirates(UAE)
From Ras Al Khaimah to the World: My Journey Through Science and Self-Discovery
By Leen Mohammed Jamal Zaid, BSc Biotechnology, AURAK, United Arab Emirates(UAE)
Welcome to UniNewsletter
A Note from the Editor in Chief
“ “
Placing Dr. Sankar’s article in our Academic Perspectives section was a very deliberate decision to problematize what exactly we mean when we reference “alternative-academic” work, a question her article centralizes.
One of the most exciting things about academic life today is how the boundaries around it are constantly in flux. Nowhere is this more apparent than in the ongoing redefinition of what counts as a “career in academia.” This issue’s title is inspired by the contribution of Dr. Tarika Sankar, Digital Humanities Librarian at Brown University (US), whose article appears in our Academic Perspectives section. Placing Dr. Sankar’s article in our Academic Perspectives section was a very deliberate decision to problematize what exactly we mean when we reference “alternative-academic” work, a question her article centralizes. She shares her trajectory from completing her PhD in English with a concentration in the Digital Humanities to becoming Brown University’s Digital Humanities Librarian a role that requires the diverse skillset obtained during the rigor of doctoral study, despite being a staff position. Against the backdrop of a changing academic job market, where new technologies and institutional expectations require more of PhDs, we must, too, shift our imagination of academic labor itself.
Laura Vasquez Bass
This spirit of practical reinvention is echoed in our Special Topics section by Virginia Grouse, Head of the School of Arts at the University of Westminster, UK. Her article addresses a pressing and often overlooked issue: the skills gap in the UK’s fashion manufacturing sector. Through the lens of higher education, she considers how universities, specifically highlighting the University of Westminster’s Fashion Manufacturing MA, can bridge knowledge and production. She concludes that investing institutional resources in addressing the skills gap not only promises to thus revitalize local industry, but also prepare students for tangible, impactful work.
For this issue’s Leadership Spotlight we are honored to have interviewed Professor Scott Richardson, Academic Dean at Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, Les Roches, UAE. Drawing from his over two-decade career in hospitality and hospitality education, Professor Richardson makes the case for cultivating industry-ready graduates through deeply experiential, globally minded programming. His wealth of experience and knowledge of the industry’s dramatic shifts over time make truly valuable reading for students, faculty and leaders alike in the hospitality sector.
This issue’s Regional Focus section features two very different but equally forward-thinking con tributions. Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University (AU) in the UAE, discusses the universi ty’s truly revolutionary approach to inclusive education. AU’s new boundary-breaking project literally involves removing all of the walls that separate the campus from the wider community. He demonstrates AU’s advocacy for a more inclusive, borderless university ethos—one where access, relevance and internationalism are cen tral to institutional identity. Meanwhile, Dr. She hzad Ashraf Chaudhry, Associate Professor of Cybersecurity Engineering at Abu Dhabi Universi ty (ADU), UAE, turns our attention skyward. His article explores the cybersecurity challenges and policy frameworks needed to support safe, smart drone-based logistics systems in the region and the world. Highlighting what he calls “the vision ary leadership of UAE, with [its] openness to inno vation,” he discusses how researchers at ADU, in line with national trends, are undertaking the truly groundbreaking task of making drone tech nology more secure, thus more widely trusted for future widespread use.
We also welcome two remarkably talented contributors in our Student Voice section. Ameer Alhashemi, M.Eng. Computer Science and Software Engineering student and Student Association President at the University of Birmingham Dubai, UAE, presents a compelling idea to the construction industry: what if your hard hat could sense danger before you could? His work on intelligent, life-saving construction headgear exemplifies the next wave of student-led innovation. Equally inspiring is Leen Mohammed Jamal Zaid, a BSc Biotechnology student at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), UAE, whose deeply personal narrative traces a scientific journey beginning in a family health crisis. Graduating as AURAK’s valedictorian of the Class of 2025, she explores how her diverse experiences were underpinned by a mantra to “think globally and act locally.” As she prepares for graduate study, Leen tracks how AURAK’s faculty and wider academic community continue to support her in reaching for her goals as an ambitious biotechnologist.
As always, we hope the perspectives in this issue challenge you, inspire you and help you reimagine what higher education makes possible.
Apply and join one of the top 50 universities in the world !
Dr. Tarika Sankar
Digital Humanities Librarian Brown University, United States (US)
Beyond the PhD:
Reimagining Academic Labor in the Digital Age
One of the most powerful aspects of digital humanities (DH) as a field is the way it makes certain forms of academic labor more visible. While the “traditional” model of humanities scholarship typically evokes an image of the lone scholar immersed in the archive, surrounded by books and manuscripts, digital humanists collaborate, code and create from websites, to databases, to digital archives. To me, building a digital project is not just “technical work,” but as much a scholarly praxis as the writing of a journal article or monograph. As the Digital Humanities Librarian at Brown University, I engage in many different types of work that might not traditionally be considered “academic,” but
nonetheless meaningfully contribute to scholarship through project management, teaching workshops, data management, building digital projects and library collection development.
During the course of my work at Brown’s Center for Digital Scholarship, I am responsible for managing a number of faculty-led digital scholarship projects, providing instruction and expertise on DH tools and methods (through standalone workshops, class visits, individual consultations and our summer intensive DH institute) and acting as the subject expert librarian for digital scholarship. The latter involves purchasing books and creating
“ As the Digital Humanities Librarian at Brown University, I engage in many different types of work that might not traditionally be considered “academic,” but nonetheless meaningfully contribute to scholarship through project management, teaching workshops, data management, building digital projects and library collection development. “
library guides for digital humanities resources at the library. My role could be considered an “alt-ac” position depending on how you define this term because I have a PhD and it’s a non-tenure-track, staff role; while most librarians have a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree rather than a PhD, my job requires a PhD.
I more or less stumbled into the field of DH as a doctoral student in English literature at the University of Miami. My arrival on campus coincided with a cluster hire of faculty specializing in DH in the English and Modern Languages and Literatures Departments, who quickly began offering DH courses. I was immediately drawn to the way that DH as a field forced me to think differently about infrastructures of labor at the university as well as broke down disciplinary siloes between the sciences, social sciences and humanities. I enrolled in and completed the then-new Doctoral Certificate in Digital Humanities and had the chance to work as a graduate research assistant for the multi-institutional, Mellon Foundation-funded DH project, WhatEvery1Says. The project examines public discourse about the humanities, again demonstrating the deep connection between DH and thinking critically about academic disciplines and public
engagement. My route into DH, thus, is a testament to remaining open to exploring a variety of fields of intellectual inquiry and diverse skillsets beyond the path I had initially imagined my PhD might take.
My three years of experience with WhatEvery1Says, where I was able to contribute to everything from shaping research questions, acting as UMiami’s graduate project manager, to the analysis and presentation of our research results, was definitely instrumental in securing my current role as Digital Humanities Librarian. My biggest piece of advice for students interested in careers in DH is to gain a similar experience to mine and work on a collaborative DH project. In DH, the best way to learn is doing. Nothing is more educational than the hands-on experience of getting messy with learning to read and adapt code, wrangling data and working through failure as you try to answer humanistic research questions with digital methods.
However, it doesn’t just take programming skills to bring a DH project to life. In fact, I have no formal training in computer science or programming, and consider myself code literate (able to read, understand and modify code), but not at all a proficient programmer. Instead, a lot of my role involves acting as a translator between humanities scholars and technically-skilled staff, helping each to understand the methods and concerns of the other. A lot of what I do in the Center for Digital Scholarship involves project management—drafting scope of work documents for projects, creating timelines, assembling a team, scheduling project meetings and overall coordination of the work so that the project progresses smoothly. It may not always be glamorous work that gets a lot of recognition, but it’s absolutely essential for digital scholarship to be produced.
“I was immediately drawn to the way that DH as a field forced me to think differently about infrastructures of labor at the university as well as broke down disciplinary siloes between the sciences, social sciences and humanities.”
In
DH, the best way to learn is doing. Nothing is more educational than the hands-on experience of getting messy with learning to read and adapt code, wrangling data and working through failure as you try to answer humanistic research questions with digital methods.
“When applying to this role, I drew on my experience as a student leader within the graduate student government at University of Miami, where I managed a budget, a team of elected officers and carried out projects like social events for graduate students. This was not a strictly “academic” experience, but it showcased my leadership, interpersonal and communication skills, which are all very important for managing a project. My takeaway from this is that as a student, you can gain skills relevant to an alt-ac role from a variety of different experiences, not just research and teaching.
The most important thing I want the academic community to know about DH and “alternative” jobs for PhDs like my own is that we are very much engaged in creating and sharing original research. The Center for Digital Scholarship is not just a service that produces a website for a faculty member’s research, but a thought partner and intellectual collaborator. Every “technical” decision that we make in a project, from how to clean the data, to determining controlled vocabularies, to choosing a digital platform for the project, involves critical thinking and scholarly thought.
For example, in our project “Stolen Relations: Recovering Stories of Indigenous Enslavement in the Americas,” our team created a complex data model to catalogue thousands of enslaved Indigenous individuals found in archival documents and put their information into a searchable database. When determining the controlled vocabulary for “race,” we had many in-depth discussions as a team about how to define race and how to ethically and sensitively assign races to individuals in the database, understanding that race is a complex, socially and historically constructed lived experience. Ultimately, we tried to communicate that our data model merely provides a simplified representation of the irreducible complexities of race in order to make individuals findable and discoverable in the database. We do not attempt to define others’ identities for them. Although assigning individuals to racial categories is an imperfect process, if we avoided the question of race out of fear of misrepresenting people, we would risk making those individuals invisible in the database. This provides just one example of the scholarly thought that goes into creating a DH project. This kind of work goes on behind the scenes, but it is essential labor that advances research and scholarly knowledge in the humanities, and I’m proud to be a part of the collaborative teams that do this meaningful work.
“The Center for Digital Scholarship is not just a service that produces a website for a faculty member’s research, but a thought partner and intellectual collaborator. Every “technical” decision that we make in a project, from how to clean the data, to determining controlled vocabularies, to choosing a digital platform for the project, involves critical thinking and scholarly thought. “
A Unique Blend: Combining Esteemed Swiss Educational Traditions and Cutting Edge Innovation in a Global Hospitality Hub
An Interview with Professor Scott Richardson, Academic Dean, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, Les Roches United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Dr. Richardson, I’d like to start by offering you our warmest thanks for talking with us today for this June issue of UniNewsletter. Please introduce yourself to our readers, including how you came to your current role.
Thank you for this opportunity to connect with UniNewsletter readers. I am Professor Scott Richardson, and I am privileged to serve as the Founding Academic Dean at the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy Les Roches. My journey in hospitality education spans over two decades and multiple countries (Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and the UAE (Dubai and Abu Dhabi). I have been part of the leadership team at four institutions that have featured in the top 20 institutions in the field of hospitality and leisure management ranked by QS, including the roles of Director of Academic Affairs at Blue Mountains International Hotel Management School, Associate Dean Research and Development at Taylors University, Acting Managing Director and Executive Dean at Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management and now Founding Dean at Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy Les Roches. I have authored more than 50 publications in leading tourism and hospitality journals and conference proceedings, and I am Deputy Chair of the College of Fellows for the International Center for Excellence in Tourism and Hospitality Education. Prior to my academic career, I spent more than a decade in various roles in the tourism and hospitality industry in Australia. My diverse experiences thus far have allowed me to witness the industry’s evolution and understand the critical role education plays in shaping its future leaders.
On that note, given your extensive international experience in hospitality education over the last 20 years or so, how exactly has your perspective on the industry and its evolving needs changed over that time?
My perspective has shifted significantly. Initially, the focus was heavily on traditional service and operational skills. However, the industry’s needs have evolved dramatically. We now see a greater emphasis on technology, data analysis, sustainability and dynamic leadership. The increased emphasis on technology means that students now need skills in areas like revenue management systems, online booking platforms and customer relationship management (CRM) software. The focus on sustainability requires an understanding of green building practices, waste reduction strategies and responsible sourcing. In an increasingly diverse global workforce, dynamic leadership is also paramount within the rapidly evolving hospitality sector. The ability to adapt to diverse cultural norms, values and communication styles is a crucial skillset for fostering effective collaboration and maximizing team potential, which should not be underestimated. Leaders must demonstrate cultural intelligence, empathy and flexibility to navigate the complexities of a multicultural workforce. This involves not only understanding and respecting cultural differences but also leveraging them to drive innovation, enhance problem-solving and create a more inclusive and harmonious work environment. In essence, dynamic leadership is about building bridges, promoting understanding and inspiring collective success across diverse groups of people.
Professor Scott Richardson Academic Dean, Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy, Les Roches
United Arab Emirates (UAE)
“The ability to adapt to diverse cultural norms, values and communication styles is a crucial skillset for fostering effective collaboration and maximizing team potential, which should not be underestimated. Leaders must demonstrate cultural intelligence, empathy and flexibility to navigate the complexities of a multicultural workforce. “
In addition, the industry is seeking graduates who are not only skilled in service but also adaptable, innovative and globally conscious. In an era of unprecedented change, marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving industries in 2025, a graduate who is not future-proofed is a graduate unprepared for the very world they are about to enter. Equipping oneself with adaptable skills, a growth mindset and a commitment to lifelong learning is no longer a luxury, but the very foundation for relevance and success in the years to come.
Given these transformations, how is Les Roches Abu Dhabi uniquely positioning itself to meet both student expectations and emerging industry demands?
Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy Les Roches is uniquely positioned by combining the esteemed Swiss hospitality education model with a forward-thinking approach tailored to the specific dynamics of the country and region. We are integrating cutting-edge technologies into our curriculum, fostering strategic partnerships with local and international businesses and emphasizing sustainability and cultural intelligence, while incorporating the Emirati hospitality identity into everything we do. This ensures our graduates are well-prepared to exceed both industry expec tations of graduates and simultaneously be prepared for the evolving demands of the industry.
Studying hospitality provides graduates with a distinct advantage in the evolving job market. While some degrees might prepare students for roles susceptible to automation through AI, hospitality emphasizes irreplaceable human
interaction and personalized service. The industry's reliance on empathy, communication and problem-solving in face-to-face settings creates a demand for skilled professionals that AI cannot fully replicate. Furthermore, the hospitality sector’s growth, particularly in regions like the UAE, ensures a continued need for qualified individuals to fill diverse roles across the plethora of hospitality and customer service-oriented organizations. This combination of human-centric skills and industry expansion contributes to the strong employability of hospitality graduates.
Could you elaborate on how the unique blend of Swiss hospitality values and forward-looking innovation come to life on the Abu Dhabi Les Roches’ campus?
That blended philosophy is central to our identity here. We uphold the Swiss values of excellence, precision and a strong service ethic in everything we do. Swiss values are reflected in our rigorous academic standards, emphasis on attention to detail in service and focus on operational efficiency. At the same time, we embrace innovation by incorporating the latest industry trends, technologies and pedagogical approaches. You can see this through our state-of-the-art facilities, our curriculum’s relevance and our commitment to developing
“
In an era of unprecedented change, marked by rapid technological advancements and evolving industries in 2025, a graduate who is not future-proofed is a graduate unprepared for the very world they are about to enter. “
Les Roches aims to create a dynamic ecosystem where innovation is nurtured, new technologies are explored and future leaders in the hospitality industry are equipped with an entrepreneurial mindset and a deep understanding of technological advancements. It goes beyond traditional hospitality education by actively engaging with the industry to shape its future.
The UAE has rapidly emerged as a global hospitality hub. How does this regional context shape the learning experience and opportunities for students in Abu Dhabi?
Over the past five years, Abu Dhabi has witnessed significant and sustained growth in its hospitality and tourism sectors, solidifying its position as a premier global destination. Despite global disruptions, the emirate has demonstrated remarkable resilience and a forward-looking approach. A key driver of this growth has been the implementation of the ambitious Tourism Strategy 2030, which set clear targets for increasing visitor numbers, GDP contribution and job creation within the sector. This strategy has focused on diversifying Abu Dhabi’s offerings, enhancing its cultural attractions, expanding its global marketing efforts and improving infrastructure and connectivity including the development of Zayed International Airport and the
vention centers in the region and a world leading airport and airline all within 20 minutes of our campus. Add to this the exciting announcement that Disney will build their first theme park in the region on Yas Island, as well as access to the various international sporting and cultural events such as the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship Golf, Mubadala Open Tennis and the Saadiyat Nights concert series, Abu Dhabi priovides unparalleled opportunities for internships, networking and future employment, shaping a truly global perspective.
As you’ve touched on, sustainability is increasingly central to hospitality worldwide. How are you embedding environmental and social responsibility into your academic programs?
Sustainability is a core priority with Les Roches integrating sustainability into its curriculum and non-curricular activities through a multifaceted approach, aiming to cultivate environmentally and socially responsible future leaders in the
“Studying hospitality provides graduates with a distinct advantage in the evolving job market. While some degrees might prepare students for roles susceptible to automation through AI, hospitality emphasizes irreplaceable human interaction and personalized service. The industry's reliance on empathy, communication
The UAE’s status as a global hospitality hub significantly enriches the learning experience. Students have access to a dynamic and diverse industry landscape, with exposure to world-class hotels, restaurants and tourism ventures. In Abu Dhabi alone there are almost 50 five-star hotels, world class theme parks, one of the largest convention centers in the region and a world leading airport and airline—all within 20 minutes of our campus.
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hospitality industry. We are integrating envi ronmental and social responsibility into our curriculum through dedicated courses, case studies and industry projects. Sustainability principles are not confined to specific courses but are also integrated into other relevant sub jects like operations management, marketing and finance, demonstrating its interconnectedness within the industry. We emphasize sustainable practices in operations, resource management and community engagement in order to prepare our students to be responsible leaders who prioritize the planet and its people.
Hands-on experience is crucial in this field. How are you reimagining the traditional internship or practicum model to better prepare students for today’s global and tech-driven workforce?
Les Roches has always strategically integrated internships into its curriculum, often including multiple placements throughout a student’s academic journey. This structured approach ensures that students are not only academically prepared but also possess the practical
opportunities with leading hospitality brands worldwide. We are constantly reimagining the traditional internship model by focusing on providing more strategic and diverse experiences. This includes international placements, cross-functional training and exposure to technology-driven roles. Students are encouraged to seek internship opportunities that will allow them to rotate through various departments (e.g., front office, food & beverage, housekeeping, marketing events), to gain a holistic understanding of how different functions interrelate and contribute to the overall guest experience. We also emphasize mentorship and reflective learning to ensure students gain maximum value from their hands-on experiences and are ready for the complexities of today’s workforce. All graduates of the Bachelor program will graduate with a minimum of 12 months full-time work experience integrated into their program. By immersing
competitive hospitality sector.
For students entering hospitality in 2025 and beyond, what leadership qualities and career strategies do you believe will set them apart in a competitive landscape?
Looking ahead, several leadership qualities and career strategies will be crucial. I think most important are the skills/qualities of adaptability, resilience and a global mindset. Adaptability is key because the hospitality industry is constantly evolving due to technological advancements, economic fluctuations and changing customer preferences. Strong digital literacy, data analysis skills and an entrepreneurial spirit will also be essential. By cultivating an entrepreneurial spirit in our graduates, they can lead the development of new hospitality concepts or innovative solutions to industry challenges. Students who prioritize continuous learning, embrace diversity and
“All graduates of the Bachelor program will graduate with a minimum of 12 months full-time work experience integrated into their program. By immersing themselves in real-world settings, graduates gain a deeper understanding of industry nuances, build confidence and significantly enhance their employability”
Addressing Skills Shortages in UK Fashion Manufacturing
The Landscape of UK Fashion Manufacturing
For centuries, the UK was at the forefront of textile and garment production. British textiles were synonymous with quality and craftsmanship from the cotton and woollen mills of the north of England, the knitwear mills of Scotland and lace producers of Nottingham, to the shoemakers and milliners of the midlands and the renowned tailors of London’s Savile Row.
However, in the last few decades, combined macro pressures of globalization, offshoring, economic pressures, shifting fashion retail models to online selling and the impact of Brexit have steadily eroded the UK’s manufacturing power. Subsequently, retailers moved their production overseas in search of lower cost and high-volume production, despite the shorter lead times and transparency for retailers producing close to home.
IIn spite of all this, the fashion supply chain and skills in this area have emerged as a crucial area of success for fashion retailers.
Virginia Grouse Head of the School of Arts at the University of Westminster, London,
UK
According to a report from the UK Fashion and Textiles Organization (UKFT) from October 2023, “The fashion and textile industry contributed to an astounding £62 billion to the UK’s GDP in 2021, supporting 1.3 million jobs across the country and generating over £2.3 billion in tax revenues. This translates to £1 in every £34 of the UK’s total Gross Value Added (GVA) contribution, one in every 25 jobs in the UK and £1 in every £30 of HMRC’s total tax receipts.
Skills Shortages in UK Clothing Production
In addition to sewing and manufacturing skills there is a shortage of the skills required to manage the supply chain. These include sourcing fabrics and manufacturing textiles and clothing. The training needs to appreciate the importance of skills such as factory auditing, risk management and ways to cost apparel and write technical specifications ready for manufacturers to follow.
There is a widely recognized skills shortage in the UK fashion and textiles industry and fash-
In the last few decades, combined macro pressures of globalization, offshoring, economic pressures, shifting fashion retail models to online selling and the impact of Brexit have steadily eroded the UK’s manufacturing power.
ion courses in both further education and higher education have not always adequately addressed these in recent years. Nevertheless, the fashion and textile industry is one that is valuable and integral to the UK economy and the cultural identity of the UK..
The UK is home to specialist and high-quality manufacturing, particularly in woollen textiles such as Harris Tweed and Linton Tweed, both suppliers to the luxury industry via brands such as Chanel, Alexander McQueen and Vivienne Westwood. In addition, other manufacturers of fine wool, such as Abraham Moon and Hainsworth in Yorkshire, all manufacture their products in the UK and export globally. In Scotland there is a luxury knitwear industry that requires specialist skills in knitwear manufacturing and the repair of quality fashion items in the wider supply chain—a reinvention through skills training is required to address this.
The UK textile and apparel manufacturing sector is already facing skills shortages with an aging workforce, and there is an opportunity to attract a new workforce and bring new talent to a renewed industry.
The future fashion industry talent will have to be both circularity and technology ready. New roles that will drive circular textile and apparel manu-
facturing will add value to the business, such as working closely with AI technologies to plan production efficiently and to manage repair labs in the manufacturing units.
Repair of durable quality fashion and the skills needed to keep clothing in circulation longer are required by retailers and manufacturers alike to adhere to new legislation in 2025 with the EU’s Waste Framework Directive an area of the industry which will only increase in the future. There is a growing need for academia and industry to create synergies between education and the skills gaps. We need to ensure we have training programmes at all levels from apprenticeships at 16+ to postgraduates so that education is more aligned with the textile and apparel industry. Understanding where these skills gaps exist will help students be industry-ready once they graduate. In this vein, internship programmes and paid placement opportunities for students provided by the UK fashion industry are essential. These educational skills include sustainability and technology and present an added value to their professional skills.
In the current environment of rapidly changing trade tariffs and barriers to overseas production from some parts of the globe, manufacturing closer to home in the UK is even more important.
“There is a widely recognized skills shortage in the UK fashion and textiles industry and fashion courses in both further education and higher education have not always adequately addressed these in recent years.”
“ In the current environment of rapidly changing trade tariffs and barriers to overseas
production
from some parts of the globe, manufacturing closer to home in the UK is even more important.
“
A recent Mintel report noted, the Maximising Resources, Minimising Waste (MRMW) program launched in the UK in July 2023. It brought together a breadth of measures to ensure durable textile products are kept in circulation for longer through increasing reuse, repair and remanufacture. This programme includes plans for large retailers to offer in-store take-back facilities and prohibits the disposal of sorted textiles in landfills. Textiles have been identified as a priority waste stream given the impact on the UN’s net zero goals , driving actions such as consulting on collections of textile waste from businesses and supporting voluntary actions taken by industry through Textiles 2030.
The MRMW programme should send a strong signal to the UK retail sector highlighting the opportunities for sustainable UK manufacturing, something which can create a further competitive edge for the industry.
At the University of Westminster, we wanted to address the skills gap and attract new talent to UK manufacturing. We thus conceived the Fashion Manufacturing MA and made the decision to enter into an innovative collaboration with the UKFT. This partnership
informs and supports UK fashion manufacturing and creates student employment opportunities in the course. It is a unique MA program, the first type of postgraduate study partnership directly connected to and devised with the UKFT, emphasizing the most current course content and offering support for students in terms of both internships and future career prospects.
“At the University of Westminster, we wanted to address the skills gap and attract new talent to UK manufacturing”
The MA supports knowledge and expertise through academics and industry guests working together. The goal is to challenge traditional fashion manufacturing by creating systems change; emphasize technology and design, combined with blending specialist skills for manufacturing; and help graduates become a new breed of professionals capable of driving innovation in the industry. The course explores new production models and advanced processes and offers hands-on industry engagement, ensuring graduates are prepared for leadership roles with future-ready skills in prototype manufacturing technical specifications and garment production.
Conclusion
To ensure UK fashion manufacturing remains competitive on the global stage, educators, retailers and manufacturers must make a determined effort to address the skills shortage together which risks undermining the potential in the industry. By reforming the further education system and continually innovating in higher education provision such as in postgraduate programs we can create a transition for proficient talent to influence and secure the sustainable and circular future of fashion and textiles in the UK.
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By reforming the further education system and continually innovating in higher education provisionsuch as in postgraduate programmes we can create a transition for proficient talent to influence and secure the sustainable and circular future of fashion and textiles in the UK.
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Image courtesy of UK Fashion and Textiles Organization (UKFT)
Dr. Karim Seghir
Chancellor of Ajman University United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Goodbye Ivory Tower: Building a Borderless, Inclusive Future at Ajman University
The age-old adage of higher education as an Ivory Tower is being dismantled to pave the way for a future of inclusive and interconnected learning. So-called elite groups of thinkers, housed in academic silos on hilltops, are no longer regarded as virtuous or valuable. The accurate measure of an institution now depends on its ability to break down barriers between the campus and the community in pursuit of mutually beneficial outcomes.
At Ajman University, we are embracing a new truth: the road to knowledge is a two-way path. Thus, from the heart of the beautiful
Emirate we represent, we are creating a university without borders in every sense. Our prime location in the UAE, just a four-hour flight from one-third of the world’s population, is highly conducive to Edupreneurship—an integrated landscape of educators, researchers, trailblazers and changemakers, many of whom fall into more than one category. So why cling to segmented ideas, spaces and places?
To foster a genuine openness to the world beyond our walls, we are dismantling the physical barriers that hinder our collaborative efforts. By removing these obstacles surround-
ing our perimeter, we demonstrate that we genuinely mean what we say at AU. Nothing should impede access for new generations of thinkers and new iterations of thinking.
The demolition of our exterior walls signifies the first step in a broader project with the Ajman Municipality & Planning Department, ultimately aimed at creating a public pathway around our entire city block. Once completed, our neighbors can join us for a jog, bike ride or stroll among the gardens and trees, enjoying an unobstructed view of our historic and beautiful campus. Our 360-degree perspective of the city will constantly remind us of what and who matters.
Ultimately, community members will gain access to more spaces at AU, including the library, industry incubator, innovation hub, sports fields and more. Similarly, our students will spend more time outside the classroom, engaging in on-site, hands-on learning experiences. Every moment that stakeholders can share boosts opportunities for meaningful social impact—AU’s raison d’être.
Tearing Down All the Walls Between Us
Tearing down walls at AU refers to all of them: the figurative barriers that obstruct multi-disciplinary research and impede society-centered innova-
“tion, as well as the literal ones that divide and separate us from the communities we exist to serve. We prioritize open access in all its forms—intertwining people and purpose in pursuit of a better future for all.
What does this philosophy look like in practice? Every day, in every way, we strive to bring the outside in and vice versa. A prime example is our mobile dental clinic, which offers free preventive and restorative dental treatments to at-risk populations. Equipped with state-of-the-art dental technology, including dental chairs and X-ray units, the clinic aims to ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, can maintain good oral health.
In recent years, our students and faculty on wheels have supported over 3,000 patients in residential care facilities, labor camps, correctional institutions and other remote settings across the UAE. Back on campus, our free dental clinic—a vibrant hub for healthcare, research and innovation—brings smiles to 500 local patients each day.
The sound of doors opening echoes across our campus and beyond. Once a month, our CXO Connect initiative invites high-level executives to campus for public discussions on the role of
To foster a genuine openness to the world beyond our walls, we are dismantling the physical barriers that hinder our collaborative efforts. By removing these obstacles surrounding our perimeter, we demonstrate that we genuinely mean what we say at AU. Nothing should impede access for new generations of thinkers and new iterations of thinking.
higher education in developing future-ready talent, research and innovation. And, notably, our administration’s meeting rooms feature glass walls, representing true transparency. Each one of these rooms is named after a core value—excellence, inclusiveness, integrity, innovation and social responsibility—ensuring that what matters most is always present in our minds as well as our work.
On the Ajman shoreline, students frequently collaborate with community volunteers on AU’s mangrove replanting project, which is one aspect of our comprehensive commitment to sustainability. These remarkable trees protect coastlines from erosion, provide essential habitats for fish and other marine life and absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide. So far, AU students and the Ajman community have planted 3,370 young mangrove trees together.
“Tearing down walls at AU refers to all of them: the
figurative
barriers
that obstruct multi-disciplinary research and impede society-centered innovation, as well as the literal ones that divide and separate us from the communities we exist to serve. We prioritize open access in all its forms—intertwining people and purpose in pursuit of a better future for all. “
Building a Better World Together
AU’s pioneering spirit took root in 1988 when we opened as the first private university in the GCC to accept expatriate students. Last year, in a rare move for our region, we made the bold decision to become a non-profit entity. Our vision and values compel us to ensure that higher education is accessible to a broader population and accountable to the public interest. By reinvesting every dirham back into our university, we can empower more students and promote research that benefits society.
Our endowed scholarship fund opens new doors for deserving young minds, ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of talent! Of our 7,000+ cohorts, 65% receive financial aid. Donors and partners are now coming together to support an Endowed Chair in Artificial Intelligence, an integrated mobile healthcare clinic (encompassing dental, medical and pharmacy services), and our 40th Anniversary Scholarship Fund, among other bespoke initiatives.
Ultimately, the most significant measure of Ajman University’s success will be our ability to foster social change and nurture the changemakers who will drive it forward. We believe AU is more than historic and pioneering; we are a movement dedicated to breaking down barriers and building a better world for everyone to share.
“Ultimately, the
most significant measure of Ajman University’s success will be our ability to foster social change and nurture the changemakers who will drive it forward. We believe AU is more than historic and pioneering; we are a movement
dedicated to breaking down barriers and building a better world for everyone to share.
“
Dr. Shehzad Ashraf Chaudhry Associate Professor of Cybersecurity Engineering Abu Dhabi University, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
A Safer Sky for Smarter Deliveries:
Securing the Future of Drone-Based Logistics
Not too long ago, the idea of packages flying through the air to reach our homes might have seemed like science fiction. Today, that vision is rapidly becoming reality. Delivery drones are no longer experimental—they are at the forefront of transforming how goods are moved in modern cities and remote areas alike.
Researching drone communication systems, we focus on the most critical yet often overlooked aspects of this transfor-
mation: how to ensure drone deliveries are safe, secure, and trustworthy. While their potential is vast, drones also open up new vulnerabilities—primarily when they rely on wireless networks for coordination and control.
This article aims to explain why securing drone communication matters and what risks we need to guard against to enable safe and efficient drone-based deliveries—especially in forward-thinking nations like the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
“Drones are rapidly becoming essential tools in logistics, healthcare, public safety and commerce. Their ability to fly over traffic, reach remote and difficult-to-reach locations, and deliver items without human contact makes them incredibly useful, especially in urgent or time-sensitive situations.“
The Ever-Increasing Delivery-Drone Security Landscape
Drones are rapidly becoming essential tools in logistics, healthcare, public safety and commerce. Their ability to fly over traffic, reach remote and difficult-to-reach locations, and deliver items without human contact makes them incredibly useful, especially in urgent or time-sensitive situations. Giant
corporations like Amazon and Google have been testing drone deliveries for groceries, medicines and small parcels. Moreover, Drones are being used to deliver medical supplies to hard-to-reach locations. Even restaurants and coffee shops in some cities have begun using drones to serve customers in outdoor areas.
The UAE has long positioned itself as a global hub for innovation, and drones play a central role in its vision for smart cities and futuristic transportation. Several pilot projects have been launched to integrate drones into public transportation, deliveries and related sectors of public interest. The issuance of Law No. (4) of 2020, by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, regulates drone operations in the Emirates. The ‘Dubai Sky Dome’ initiative aims to transform Dubai into a virtual airspace for drones, enabling them to connect places, buildings and miniature airports across the city. In May 2023, Fakeeh University Hospital successfully completed its first medical delivery to a patient. The trial was conducted within a 10-km radius of the hospital, and the medicine was delivered to Cedre Villas, Dubai Silicon Oasis. Emirates Post Group (EPG) and SkyGo, an aerial logistics provider, had also signed an agreement for the provision of drone-powered logistics and delivery services between designated locations in Abu Dhabi.
With the country’s long-standing commitment to sustainability and efficiency, drones also support green logistics, reducing road congestion and lowering carbon emissions. Yet, for drones to truly take flight at scale, we must first ensure that they operate securely.
The security of drones is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Without security and privacy, drones that rely on businesses, individuals, and infrastructure could be exposed to unacceptable risks. “ “
The Drone Security Matters
Every drone relies on digital communication for sending and receiving data about its location, route, mission and even the packages it carries. Such information could be intercepted, altered or even blocked by malicious insiders or outsiders.
Imagine a scenario where a drone carrying life-saving drugs is hijacked before reaching the destination, or hackers intercept and alter delivery instructions. This can create privacy concerns and may result in lost or delayed packages. These are genuine risks in a connected world. Hence, the security of drones is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Without security and privacy, drones that rely on businesses, individuals, and infrastructure could be exposed to unacceptable risks.
Drone-aided Secure and Efficient Smart Logistics Systems
To address this challenge, we at Abu Dhabi University (ADU), along with collaborators from Taiwan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, are working towards secure and
efficient smart logistics systems. Two separate frameworks for secure drone communication have been developed: one uses only lightweight hash functions to provide a secure and timely last-mile delivery, and the alternative framework could be more viable for 5G-based communication architecture to extend hardware-based challenge-response mechanisms for the provision of security and privacy in the drone communications model. Both systems aim to ensure security and privacy in complex resource-limited drone environments. Rather than using conventional, resource-hungry Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) based security methods, both approaches use more lightweight and efficient primitives to provide a secure handshake between three main parties: the drone itself, a ground station that monitors and routes the drone and a central control system that oversees operations and handles sensitive instructions. Extending mutual authentication and identity verification, these frameworks are well-suited for lightweight drone deliveries and can be deployed in both urban and rural areas.
Real-World Benefits: Trust, Speed and Safety
The drone communication frameworks not only prevent unauthorized listening and hijacking but also unlock the full potential of drone delivery systems. The systems could be used to deliver critical medical supplies securely and in a timely manner to remote locations and healthcare providers. It can be applied to e-commerce to gain competitive advantages and build customer confidence. In addition, it may have delivery applications for government services.
In countries like the UAE, where the government is investing heavily in smart applications and infrastructure, drone security will be essential for scaling up these services. We can envision a future emirate where deliveries of medications, urgent court documents and government documents are protected by a robust and invisible layer of digital security, ensuring businesses are safeguarded.
Building Public Confidence in Smart Skies
One of the most significant barriers to widespread drone adoption isn't technology—it’s
trust. People need to believe that these systems are safe, reliable and respectful of their privacy.
A drone buzzing overhead delivering lunch or a prescription should not raise concerns about who might be watching or whether the package will arrive at all. By embedding strong security mechanisms into the communication process from the outset, we can establish trust in both the technology and the organizations that deploy it.
The Path Ahead
The visionary leadership of UAE, with openness to innovation, is perfectly positioned to lead the world in trustworthy and safer drone integration. However, leadership comes with responsibility. The realization of such innovation requires that security must be part of the design for any autonomous delivery system it could not be an afterthought.
Our contributions are small steps toward that goal: a model that blends efficiency with protection, tailored for a world where drones are not just helpful tools but trusted agents in our daily lives.
The sky is no longer the limit; it’s the next frontier. And if we secure it wisely, drones can become the foundation for a smarter, safer and more connected world.
“We can envision a future emirate where deliveries of medications, urgent court documents and government documents are protected by a robust and invisible layer of digital security, ensuring businesses are safeguarded.“
“The visionary leadership of UAE, with openness to innovation, is perfectly positioned to lead the world in trustworthy and safer drone integration “
Are you ready to embark on a journey of excellence? The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) is more than just a university – AURAK is a story of excellence.
versity in the UAE to attain the esteemed QS Five Star Plus rating. We set the bar high and continue to raise it.
Business and Management:
Excel in a dynamic business world with enhanced skills.
Engineering: Lead in innovative engineering solutions and advancements through our unique programs
Education: Inspire and educate the next generation.
Computing: Explore technology's boundless possibilities through our advanced curriculum.
Architecture: Shape the world with our cutting-edge program.
Mass Communications: Dive into the media industry with advanced skills.
Biotechnology: Learn to use biology to improve human health and society.
Psychology: Work across diverse settings to help individuals and communities.
Building Life-Saving Construction Equipment
Or—What If the Helmet Knew First?
“ As a Software Engineering student, I’ve always been drawn to systems that don’t just respond, but anticipate. “
Where Safety Falls Short
Listening to the Voices That Matter
Construction workers build the cities we live in. They lift skylines into existence, often under harsh conditions: toxic fumes, extreme temperatures and unstable scaffolds. Yet despite the dangers, their protection systems haven’t evolved fast enough. When I visited active worksites across the UAE during a student project, it became uncomfortably clear that the people risking the most had the least real-time protection. That was the moment Hemayah—a smart safety helmet designed for construction and industrial workers began to take shape. Its design was not merely a technical exercise, but a promise.
As a Software Engineering student, I’ve always been drawn to systems that don’t just respond, but anticipate. But what Hemayah taught me was that designing for safety isn’t just about writing code or connecting sensors. It’s about building trust. Developed across two of my final-year modules—Human-Computer Interaction and Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing—Hemayah became more than a requirement. It became the space where I could bring together embedded systems, app design and stakeholder insight into something that felt real, necessary and urgent
Hemayah, which means “protection” in Arabic, was specifically designed for construction and industrial workers in high-risk zones. Our aim was to transform personal protective equipment from passive wear into active life lines, capable of detecting gas leaks, falls and signs of heat stress before they become fatal.
Throughout the development process, we didn’t start with features. Rather, we started with voices. I spoke with supervisors who had lost workers to preventable accidents. I visited construction sites where 50°C heat was treated as normal. I helped lead the user research process, asking questions, testing early assumptions and most importantly, listening. What we heard over and over again was that traditional safety systems react too late. Workers collapsing from heat exhaustion were sometimes only noticed when they stopped moving. Gas leaks weren’t detected until symptoms appeared. Falls triggered no alarms. These weren’t gaps in technology, they were failures of empathy.
“Throughout the development process, we didn’t start with features. Rather, we started with voices. I spoke with supervisors who had lost workers to preventable accidents. I visited construction sites where 50°C heat was treated as normal. I helped lead the user research process, asking questions, testing early assumptions and most importantly, listening ”
What began as a student prototype evolved into a full ecosystem. We first pitched it internally at the University of Birmingham Dubai, where it sparked conversations among students and staff about the future of workplace safety.
So we designed Hemayah with urgency in mind. The helmet integrates health sensors to track heart rate and body temperature, a motion-based fall detection system, and gas sensors that detect carbon monoxide, methane and hydrogen sulfide. If a danger is detected, the helmet vibrates and flashes red, even in the loudest environments. Simultaneously, it sends an alert with the exact GPS location to a central dashboard monitored by supervisors. Every second saved could be the difference between a near miss and a tragedy.
But even the best technology fails if people won’t use it. One of the hardest challenges we faced wasn’t in the code or the electronics—it was in comfort. Workers told us emphatically that they wouldn’t wear anything heavy, hot or complicated. We iterated through sketches, tested materials and built ergonomic padding systems. We scrapped some features, like live audio alerts and solar panels, because they made the helmet too bulky or unreliable. What remained was a refined, practical device that could run 8 to 12 hours on a single charge and felt as light as a regular hard hat.
Not every step in development went smoothly. During an early round of prototyping, we accidentally shorted one of our Arduino boards,
bringing the entire system down a night before testing. It was a moment that reminded us innovation promises progress, but also requires patience. We had to rewire, reflash the firmware and rethink how we managed power and connections. In hindsight, it became one of the most valuable learning curves of the process, forcing us to double down on reliability and resilience.
From Experimentations to Real Conversations
Alongside the hardware, I helped lead the design of the companion app, a streamlined interface that allows supervisors to monitor helmet status, worker vitals and safety alerts in real time. It shows when helmets are active, inactive, disconnected or faulty. Over time, the system generates reports on safety incidents, trends in environmental hazards and compliance. What began as a student prototype evolved into a full ecosystem. We first pitched it internally at the University of Birmingham Dubai, where it sparked conversations among students and staff about the future of workplace safety. I also had the opportunity to present it to EuroTech ME, where I spoke directly with professionals in the safety technology and industrial equipment space. These weren’t just academic demos, they were real-world conversations that helped shape how we framed Hemayah’s impact.
Throughout development, we were mindful of balancing innovation with feasibility. Not everything made it through. We avoided features that required cloud-based AI inference due to data privacy concerns and latency. We prioritized real-time processing and local redundancy. Our design decisions weren’t about what was trendy. They were about what would work on a noisy, sun-scorched, fast-moving site.
A Smarter Future Starts at the Ground Level
What stayed with me most weren’t the specs or dashboards. It was the feedback from the people we designed for. During one of our tests, a supervisor looked at the fall detection alert and said, “This could’ve made all the difference last month.” That moment stayed with me. We weren’t just building a system. We were trying to fill a silence that too often follows an emergency that isn’t recognized until it’s too late.
Hemayah has changed the way I think about engineering. It taught me that the most impactful technology isn’t always the most complex. It’s the most considerate. Sometimes, innovation means restraint. The people closest to danger often have the clearest idea of what safety should feel like. We didn’t just design a
product. We tried to build dignity into every wire, alert and vibration.
As I look to the future, I see Hemayah as more than a university project. I see it as a prototype of possibility, one where young engineers can collaborate with communities; where technology serves humanity with precision and care; and where every hard hat on every site is connected, aware and ready.
We often talk about smart cities, but Hemayah made me ask—why not smart workers? Why shouldn’t the very people who lay the foundations for our world have access to the same intelligence we expect from our homes and cars? If we can build towers that touch the clouds, surely we can build helmets that save lives on the ground.
“Hemayah has
changed the way I
think about engineering. It taught me that the most impactful technology isn’t always the most complex. It’s the most considerate. Sometimes, innovation means restraint. ”
From Ras Al Khaimah to the World: My Journey Through Science and Self-Discovery
Leen Mohammed Jamal Zaid BSc Biotechnology
American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) United Arab Emirates (UAE)
As I prepare to graduate as the valedictorian of the Class of 2025 at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK), I find myself reflecting on a journey defined by academic discovery, international exposure and a growing commitment to advancing biomedical science. With a GPA of 3.98, a concentration in cell and molecular biology and the honors of Summa Cum
Laude, I look back on my years at AURAK not only with pride but with gratitude for how this place helped shape my path.
I remember the first time I held a micropipette—nervous, cautious and completely captivated. It was in one of AURAK’s biology labs during my first semester, and though it was just
a simple experiment, something clicked. I realized science wasn’t just a subject I loved; it was a language I wanted to speak fluently.
Now, standing at the threshold of graduation, I carry that same sense of wonder—this time, grounded in experience and purpose from a journey that’s taken me far beyond the class room.
Where It All Began
“Your mom has been diagnosed with leukemia.”
That sentence shattered the life I knew. My mind became a whirlpool of questions—about her prognosis, treatment and the science behind the disease consuming our world. I made the difficult choice to pause my studies and spend a semes ter by her side. It was a time of helplessness, fear and painful clarity. Knowing about illness is one thing; watching it dismantle someone you love is something else entirely.
But that experience forged something in me—a sense of direction. I realized I didn’t just want to understand disease; I wanted to help fight it. I knew then I would dedicate my life to molecular biotechnology. Thus, when my mother entered remission, I joined an internship at the King Hus sein Cancer Center (KHCC) in Amman, Jordan—the same hospital where I had once sat in waiting rooms, clinging to hope. This time, I wasn’t just a loved one. I was part of the team. I worked alongside clinicians and researchers who inspired me daily. It wasn’t just professional—it was deeply personal.
“ I realized science wasn’t just a subject I loved; it was a language I wanted to speak fluently.
“
I realized I didn’t just want to understand disease; I wanted to help fight it. I knew then I would dedicate my life to molecular biotechnology. “ “
A Passion Years in the Making
My passion for science began long before that chapter. Since childhood, I’ve pushed myself to excel academically. That dedication was recognized when I received the Sheikha Fatima Bint Mubarak Award for Excellence in 2016. At AURAK, that drive carried me through challenging courses, late-night experiments and research obstacles. I found my home in the lab and my voice in scientific inquiry.
I chose biotechnology not because I had all the answers—but because I had all the questions. Why do cells misbehave in cancer? How can we design smarter therapies? What’s the next frontier in healing? At AURAK, these questions weren’t just welcomed—they were expected. From day one, the university gave me more than lectures, it gave me mentorship, open lab doors and the confidence to go deeper, ask harder questions and embrace complexity.
Research That Made Me
Research has been the heart of my academic life. My senior project examined the cytoprotec-
tive effect of the antioxidant EGCG (from green tea and matcha) on fibroblast and kidney cells exposed to doxorubicin. It was an immersive introduction to cellular response and oxidative stress. I spent long hours re-running MTT assays, troubleshooting Western blots and poring over PCR results. Those hours weren’t
“Seeing my name in an international journal wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a testament to AURAK’s research environment.”
“
just work—they were a rehearsal for the kind of scientist I hope to become.
Another milestone was co-authoring a peer-reviewed paper titled “Identified and potential internalization signals involved in trafficking and regulation of Na+/K+ATPase activity.” It deepened my understanding of cellular transport and introduced me to the collaborative world of scientific publishing. Seeing my name in an international journal wasn’t just a personal achievement—it was a testament to AURAK’s research environment.
AURAK: A Launchpad for Global Experiences
My journey wasn’t limited to campus. I was fortunate to complete an international internship at KHCC, one of the region’s leading institutions in cancer research. Working alongside clinicians and researchers, I witnessed how molecular diagnostics intersect with patient care. That experience sharpened my technical skills and deepened my passion for oncology.
Just months later, I found myself in the savannas of South Africa, participating in a wildlife forensics
“ AURAK isn’t a place where students compete to stand out—it’s where they collaborate to move forward. The faculty don’t just teach—they invest in you. The labs don’t just function — they inspire. And the students don’t just pass through—they shape the university in meaningful ways. “
course. On paper, it might seem unrelated to molecular oncology, but the core principle was the same: using biology to protect life. Whether analyzing animal DNA to trace illegal poaching or understanding genetic resistance in tumor cells, science remains a powerful tool for justice and preservation. That experience reminded me that biotechnology knows no borders—it touches every corner of the living world.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Beyond research, I took on leadership roles as a teaching assistant in biochemistry, where I designed interactive activities to reinforce complex concepts. That role taught me patience, empathy and the power of collaborative learning. It also helped me become a better communicator, listener and learner.
Through it all, I came to appreciate the power of academic community. AURAK isn’t a place where students compete to stand out—it’s where they collaborate to move forward. The faculty don’t just teach—they invest in you. The labs don’t just function—they inspire. And the students don’t just pass through—they shape the university in meaningful ways.
A Future Rooted in Purpose
Now, I prepare to pursue graduate studies in Molecular Medicine, with the goal of contribut-
ing to cancer research and precision medicine. I’m particularly interested in chemoresistance and the development of targeted therapies. My undergraduate training at AURAK has equipped me with the scientific foundation and research skills to thrive in a PhD program.
What drives me is more than ambition—it’s purpose. AURAK gave me the foundation, but life’s hardships gave me direction. I am, above all, an enthusiastic biotechnologist grounded in molecular biology and inspired by the complexity of life. Understanding that complexity—and using it to heal—is the mission I carry forward.
AURAK: Where Ambitions Take Root
My story is just one of many at AURAK. Located in the dynamic emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, the university brings together students from around the world in a culturally rich and intellectually stimulating environment. With accredited programs, a commitment to research and strong ties to global institutions, AURAK empowers students to think globally and act locally. For me, AURAK has been more than a university—it has been a home. A place that challenged me, supported me and celebrated every milestone. I leave its halls with confidence, curiosity and the conviction to make a difference. And for that, I will always be grateful.
AURAK gave me the foundation, but life’s hardships gave me direction. I am, above all, an enthusiastic biotechnologist grounded in molecular biology and inspired by the complexity of life. Understanding that complexity—and using it to heal—is the mission I carry forward.
