Al Ain: This week the United Arab Emirates University celebrates World Space Week, the annual event designated by the United Nations in 1999 to mark the contribution of science and technology to improvements in human life.

His Excellency Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, University Chancellor and Cultural Adviser to His Highness the President used the occasion to praise the UAE leadership for their announcement of an Emirati mission to explore Venus and the solar system’s asteroid belt and achieve the first Arab vehicle landing.  He said, “This unprecedented initiative will be an historic achievement, adding a jewel to the UAE’s pioneering crown”.

H.E. described this initiative as an expression of the great confidence placed in the UAEU by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. “I am grateful to them for their recognition of the university’s scientific expertise and research capacity, and our ability to conduct experiments and tests necessary to this pioneering national project. I thank them for their faith in the capability of the nation to push boundaries in the fields of space science and to use advanced technology to innovate and explore new horizons. They hold a deep belief in the UAE’s potential to enhance its global competitiveness and achieve its aspirations in the space sector.

The theme of the 2021 celebration is ‘Women in Space’.  Dr. Reem Fares, Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics of the College of Science said that Emirati women have leading positions in the country, and at the forefront is the mother of the nation, Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, President of the General Women’s Union.  Dr. Reem expressed the UAEU’s pride that its alumnus Noura Al Matrooshi is one of the first Emirati astronauts. She said, “This highlights the university’s objective to foster students’ capability in scientific research by providing an innovative educational experience of the highest international standards. This year we have coordinated with the UAE Space Agency to organize our celebrations, which will be run by the College of Science, the National Center for Space Science and Technology, and student clubs.  We hope the events motivate women to participate and encourage them to choose to study science, informatics, and engineering”.

Dr. Reem described the confidence felt by the university because the UAE leadership has chosen it to participate in the mission to explore Venus and the asteroids of the solar system. “It demonstrates the integrity of the university’s objectives to provide excellent education in pure and applied science and research and to empower all its students to achieve distinction in their studies.  The university aligns its work to the nation’s strategic vision for the next fifty years.  This vision includes using scientific research and study to build the strength and potential of the nation and to prepare young people to support our progress towards leadership in all fields of endeavor”.