In the Media – Khalifa University Fri, 25 Apr 2025 08:00:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.6 /wp-content/uploads/2019/09/cropped-favicon-32x32.jpg In the Media – Khalifa University 32 32 The 9th International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders kicks off in Abu Dhabi /the-9th-international-conference-on-alzheimers-disease-and-related-disorders-kicks-off-in-abu-dhabi /the-9th-international-conference-on-alzheimers-disease-and-related-disorders-kicks-off-in-abu-dhabi#respond Fri, 25 Apr 2025 07:23:53 +0000 /?p=105599

The 9th International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders in the Middle East kicked off yesterday. The conference is being hosted by Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi from April 18 to 20.   This prominent scientific event brings together a select group of global leaders, researchers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates to advance a …

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The 9th International Conference on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Disorders in the Middle East kicked off yesterday. The conference is being hosted by Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi from April 18 to 20.

 

This prominent scientific event brings together a select group of global leaders, researchers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocates to advance a shared understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and develop innovative strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and care in the region.

 

Professor Marwan Sabbagh, Fellow of the American Academy of Neurology and Chair of the Alzheimer’s Disease Research Division at Arizona State University, USA, told Emirates News Agency (WAM) that this conference aims to foster dialogue among leaders, physicians, and scientists to develop new treatments for Alzheimer’s disease, a necessary development in addressing the challenges posed by the disease at the regional and global levels.

 

He added that in its early days, the conference focused on facilitating discussions among specialists. Today, it has evolved to include a deeper understanding of regional issues, ways to integrate modern technology, and the development of new tests and treatments applicable to the Middle East, thus contributing to the spread of benefits to all countries.

 

He emphasized that the primary goal of the conference is to enhance global scientific and medical cooperation to find effective and innovative solutions to address Alzheimer’s and related disorders, noting that the conference plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Alzheimer’s care in our region. By unifying efforts across disciplines and borders, we are making real progress towards improving patient outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for their families.

 

The conference is sponsored by a number of major healthcare entities in the UAE and aims to address the growing challenges associated with dementia disorders through the exchange of expertise and the promotion of cooperation and innovation.
The three-day program includes opening remarks by international experts, specialized keynote sessions, and extensive discussions within working groups.

 

The sessions focus on the latest scientific developments in the fields of early diagnosis, pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments, integrated care models, regulatory frameworks, and related health policies.

 

The conference addresses the social and economic impact of dementia disorders, explores early awareness programs, and community and cultural support for caregivers, while focusing on sustainable solutions that enhance the ability of health systems to respond to growing challenges.

 

This conference is a prestigious international platform that brings together researchers, physicians, experts, and policymakers to discuss the latest developments in Alzheimer’s research and propose practical and innovative solutions aimed at improving the quality of life for those affected and supporting their families and caregivers. It also ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝ advances in diagnosis and treatment, showcases innovations in healthcare technologies and community services, and discusses national and international policies related to neurological diseases.

 

The conference represents a significant step forward in the UAE’s efforts to strengthen its position as a global platform for medical innovation and scientific research, and to support international efforts to address the challenges of dementia and associated neurological disorders.

 

Source: Ěý

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How the Emirati Genome Project should lead to major advances in personalised medicine /how-the-emirati-genome-project-should-lead-to-major-advances-in-personalised-medicine /how-the-emirati-genome-project-should-lead-to-major-advances-in-personalised-medicine#respond Wed, 16 Apr 2025 11:32:08 +0000 /?p=105370

The Emirati Genome Project, launched in 2020, aims to analyze the genomes – a person’s complete set of genetic material – of as many UAE nationals as possible. As a researcher closely involved with the project, Prof Habiba Al Safar, Dean, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, said …

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The Emirati Genome Project, launched in 2020, aims to analyze the genomes – a person’s complete set of genetic material – of as many UAE nationals as possible. As a researcher closely involved with the project, Prof Habiba Al Safar, Dean, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, said that would “generate a comprehensive reference map of the genetic make-up of the Emirati population.”

 

More than 600,000 Emiratis have provided blood or cheek swabs so that their genomes can be sequenced, making it “the largest population-based genetic study in the region”. As well as being useful for personalized medicine, the information should be of value in understanding how human migration contributed to the genetic make-up of the Emirati population.

 

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How the Emirati Genome Project should lead to major advances in personalised medicine /how-the-emirati-genome-project-should-lead-to-major-advances-in-personalised-medicine/ /how-the-emirati-genome-project-should-lead-to-major-advances-in-personalised-medicine/#respond Wed, 16 Apr 2025 10:50:45 +0000 /?p=105358

The Emirati Genome Project, launched in 2020, aims to analyze the genomes – a person’s complete set of genetic material – of as many UAE nationals as possible. As a researcher closely involved with the project, Prof Habiba Al Safar, Dean, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, said …

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The Emirati Genome Project, launched in 2020, aims to analyze the genomes – a person’s complete set of genetic material – of as many UAE nationals as possible. As a researcher closely involved with the project, Prof Habiba Al Safar, Dean, College of Medicine and Health Sciences (CMHS) at Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi, said that would “generate a comprehensive reference map of the genetic make-up of the Emirati population.”

More than 600,000 Emiratis have provided blood or cheek swabs so that their genomes can be sequenced, making it “the largest population-based genetic study in the region”. As well as being useful for personalized medicine, the information should be of value in understanding how human migration contributed to the genetic make-up of the Emirati population.

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Khalifa University among Key Global Institutions Supporting New GSMA Group to Improve AI in Telecom /khalifa-university-among-key-global-institutions-supporting-new-gsma-group-to-improve-ai-in-telecom /khalifa-university-among-key-global-institutions-supporting-new-gsma-group-to-improve-ai-in-telecom#respond Thu, 27 Feb 2025 08:42:18 +0000 /?p=103732

Khalifa University is among a few major global technology and research institutions that support Open-Telco LLM Benchmarks – a new community launched by mobile industry body GSMA that aims to improve the performance of AI models for telecom-specific applications.   The community is also supported by Hugging Face, and The Linux Foundation, along with a …

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Khalifa University is among a few major global technology and research institutions that support Open-Telco LLM Benchmarks – a new community launched by mobile industry body GSMA that aims to improve the performance of AI models for telecom-specific applications.

 

The community is also supported by Hugging Face, and The Linux Foundation, along with a host of telecoms operators, including Deutsche Telekom, LG Uplus, SK Telecom, Turkcell, and telecom vendor Huawei.

 

The benchmark aims to provide an open-source evaluation framework to assess AI models in the telecom industry.

 

The framework will focus on real-world performance, and holistic AI assessment. In the UAE, Khalifa University already leads the committee established by the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) to expedite adoption of 6G.

 

This committee also includes manufacturers, and telecom operators, and is expected to facilitate scientific studies, research, and the development of technical standards and specifications for 6G.

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UAE scientists’ role in astrophysics breakthrough ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝ growing appeal of space sector /uae-scientists-role-in-astrophysics-breakthrough-ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝-growing-appeal-of-space-sector /uae-scientists-role-in-astrophysics-breakthrough-ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝-growing-appeal-of-space-sector#respond Mon, 24 Feb 2025 06:42:10 +0000 /?p=103627

Khalifa University researchers part of a major international collaboration that has identified an ultra-high-energy particle called a neutrino   Khalifa University researchers are integral to a groundbreaking international collaboration that has identified an ultra-high-energy neutrino, a discovery that ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝ the UAE’s growing influence in the global space sector. Using data from the Cubic Kilometre Neutrino …

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Khalifa University researchers part of a major international collaboration that has identified an ultra-high-energy particle called a neutrino

 

Khalifa University researchers are integral to a groundbreaking international collaboration that has identified an ultra-high-energy neutrino, a discovery that ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝ the UAE’s growing influence in the global space sector. Using data from the Cubic Kilometre Neutrino Telescope (KM3NeT) in the Mediterranean Sea, scientists have detected a neutrino with energy levels 30 times greater than any previously observed, as published in Nature. This discovery opens new avenues for studying the universe and understanding the propagation of ultra-high-energy rays. Khalifa University became a full member of the KM3NeT collaboration in 2021, with Dr. Satyendra Thoudam playing a key role in advancing research in astrophysics. The UAE’s commitment to space exploration is further evidenced by projects like the Hope Mars orbiter, plans to explore the asteroid belt, and aspirations to land an Emirati on the Moon. Emirati PhD student Abdulrahman Alhebsi exemplifies the new wave of talent in this field, engaging in complex data analysis under the guidance of Dr. Thoudam and Dr. Arjen van Vliet. The UAE’s burgeoning interest in space research is mirrored by the expansion of its commercial space sector, aligning with global players like SpaceX and Blue Origin.

 

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Khalifa University Highlights AI’s Role in Education at UAE Forum /khalifa-university-ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝-ais-role-in-education-at-uae-forum /khalifa-university-ĐÇżŐ´«Ă˝-ais-role-in-education-at-uae-forum#respond Fri, 21 Feb 2025 09:15:50 +0000 /?p=103617

Khalifa University Highlights AI’s Role in Education at UAE Forum   His Excellency Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, emphasized the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education during a recent UAE forum. Addressing concerns about educators’ reluctance to adopt AI, he highlighted the importance of upskilling and establishing clear guidelines to …

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Khalifa University Highlights AI’s Role in Education at UAE Forum

 

His Excellency Prof. Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, emphasized the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education during a recent UAE forum. Addressing concerns about educators’ reluctance to adopt AI, he highlighted the importance of upskilling and establishing clear guidelines to maximize its benefits. As a leading institution in technological innovation, Khalifa University continues to champion AI-driven advancements, equipping students and faculty with the necessary tools to navigate the evolving academic landscape.

 

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EU and Khalifa University Host Career Talk on Women Shaping Emerging Technologies /eu-and-khalifa-university-host-career-talk-on-women-shaping-emerging-technologies /eu-and-khalifa-university-host-career-talk-on-women-shaping-emerging-technologies#respond Thu, 20 Feb 2025 12:01:49 +0000 /?p=103590

This event is the third in a series of Career Talks organised by the EU Delegation to the UAE following last year’s successful talks on Women in Engineering and Women in Defence.   The European Union Delegation to the UAE, in partnership with Khalifa University, hosted an inspiring career talk on Women in Emerging Technologies. …

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This event is the third in a series of Career Talks organised by the EU Delegation to the UAE following last year’s successful talks on Women in Engineering and Women in Defence.

 

The European Union Delegation to the UAE, in partnership with Khalifa University, hosted an inspiring career talk on Women in Emerging Technologies. The event brought together female leaders from the European Union and the UAE at Khalifa University to empower and guide the next generation of women contributing to emerging technology and science including AI, robotics, health technology and biotechnology.

 

Her Excellency Lucie Berger, EU Ambassador to the UAE, and His Excellency Ray Johnson, Senior Advisor to the President of Khalifa University, opened the event highlighting the crucial role of women in leading and shaping the future of technology and welcoming the distinguished female leaders from the EU and the UAE: Her Excellency Dr Mariam Matar, a Genomics & Biotech pioneer, Dr Kinda Khalaf, Leader in Robotics & HealthTech, Dr Giulia de Masi, Senior Expert in Robotics & AI, Dr Maria de Fatima Domingues, HealthTech Innovator & Biomedical Engineer, and the moderator, Miss Ferial Abuhantash, Bio-engineering PhD candidate. The panel shared their personal experience, achievements and career advice to the Khalifa University students.

 

This event is the third in a series of Career Talks organized by the EU Delegation to the UAE, following last year’s successful talks on Women in Engineering and Women in Defence. The Career Talks initiative reflects the EU’s ongoing commitment to fostering international collaboration in gender equality and women’s empowerment.

 

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Building Smart, Sustainable Cities: Pioneering Role In Ai-driven Development With Robots /building-smart-sustainable-cities-pioneering-role-in-ai-driven-development-with-robots /building-smart-sustainable-cities-pioneering-role-in-ai-driven-development-with-robots#respond Tue, 15 Oct 2024 11:53:46 +0000 /?p=98666

Features the world shifts towards a future where sustainability and technological innovation go hand in hand, smart cities are emerging as a key solution to address growing urban challenges. In the heart of this transformation, the UAE is taking the lead by embracing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and robotics …

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Features the world shifts towards a future where sustainability and technological innovation go hand in hand, smart cities are emerging as a key solution to address growing urban challenges. In the heart of this transformation, the UAE is taking the lead by embracing advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and robotics to build cities that are not only intelligent but also sustainable.

 

At the forefront of this endeavour is Khalifa University of Science and Technology, a leading research-intensive and innovation-oriented higher education institution in the UAE, which is spearheading groundbreaking research in AI, ML, and Robotics. The university remains instrumental in realizing the vision of smart, sustainable cities-cities that harness technology to improve the quality of life for citizens while minimizing environmental impact. The forefront of these efforts, with researchers developing AI-driven robotic systems that can predict and act, solving issues in real time. For example, AI algorithms are being used to analyse pedestrian patterns and optimize transportation systems, reducing congestion and lowering vehicle emissions.

 

Abu Dhabi is hosting the 36th edition of IEEE/ RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024), one of the world’s most prestigious conferences in the field of robotics and AI. This event is coming to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region for the first time. Organized by Khalifa University, it will provide a global platform for researchers, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore the latest innovations in smart city technologies.

 

A key focus of IROS 2024 will be the role of AI and robotics in creating sustainable environments. Through workshops, keynote speeches, and panel discussions, the conference will highlight how AI-driven technologies can address critical challenges such as climate change, resource management, and safety in cities around the world.

 

IROS 2024 will also showcase cutting-edge research, offering insights into how AI and robotics are being applied to improve urban mobility, mobility efficiency, and environmental sustainability. The conference will not only foster collaboration among global experts but also provide a platform for sharing best practices in smart city development.

 

As the General Chair of IROS 2024, I am excited to highlight how this global event, hosted by Khalifa University, will showcase the critical role of AI and robotics in driving this smart city revolution.

 

Khalifa University plays a critical role in advancing smart city technologies in the UAE. Through its cutting-edge research and partnerships with government and industry, the university is helping to transform the UAE’s urban landscape into a model for future cities. Its projects align with the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, which aims to position the country as a global leader in artificial intelligence by 2031.

 

Researchers at Khalifa University are developing autonomous systems that can enhance urban transportation by integrating AI into vehicle management and vehicle control systems. By enabling vehicles to communicate with each other and interact with city infrastructure, AI-powered smart mobility systems can reduce traffic congestion, improve road safety, and lower carbon emissions. These systems use real-time data to monitor energy use and automatically adjust heating, cooling, and lighting to reduce waste. This not only lowers energy costs but also contributes to the UAE’s broader sustainability goals.

 

Moreover, Khalifa University’s work in AI-powered public safety systems is helping to create safer urban environments. These systems use AI and ML to analyze data from surveillance cameras and other sensors, enabling authorities to respond quickly to potential threats or emergencies. By enhancing the efficiency of public safety operations, AI technologies are helping to build cities that are not only smarter but also safer for their citizens.

 

AI and Robotics technologies are also being used to promote green mobility. Autonomous vehicles and AI-driven traffic management systems help reduce congestion and emissions, making urban transportation more sustainable. By integrating AI and Robotics into every aspect of city development and management, the UAE is building cities that are not only intelligent but also environmentally responsible.

 

As the UAE continues its journey toward becoming a global leader in AI, Robotics and smart city technologies, Khalifa University’s contributions are proving to be invaluable. Through its research, partnerships, and leadership in events like IROS 2024, the university is driving innovation that will shape the cities of the future-cities that are smarter, safer, and more sustainable. As the world looks to the future, the IROS 2024 in Abu Dhabi will lead the way of turning the vision of smart, sustainable cities into a reality.

 

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Falcon monitoring challenge unites tech, conservation /falcon-monitoring-challenge-unites-tech-conservation /falcon-monitoring-challenge-unites-tech-conservation#respond Tue, 15 Oct 2024 05:32:02 +0000 /?p=98586

IROS 2024 fosters collab between AI innovators and wildlife experts to protect species   In recent years, the field of wildlife conservation has seen advancements driven by technology and artificial intelligence. From drone surveillance to camera traps and data management tools, these innovations are transforming how we monitor and protect endangered species while prioritising non-invasive …

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IROS 2024 fosters collab between AI innovators and wildlife experts to protect species

 

In recent years, the field of wildlife conservation has seen advancements driven by technology and artificial intelligence. From drone surveillance to camera traps and data management tools, these innovations are transforming how we monitor and protect endangered species while prioritising non-invasive methods.

 

In the wild, these advanced techniques must effectively rub shoulders with traditional practices and the people who implement them, ensuring we respect natural habitats.

 

It is crucial that we recognise this synergy, as a significant gap remains between tech innovators and traditional conservationists — one that the Falcon Monitoring Challenge in the 36th edition of the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024), in Abu Dhabi — has the potential to bridge.

 

Traditional conservationists possess invaluable knowledge about
ecosystems, species behaviour, and the intricacies of habitat management and their experience is essential for developing effective preservation strategies. Yet, they often operate within constraints, relying on methods that can be outdated or invasive. On the other hand, innovators possess the tools to gather and analyse data, often lacking the ecological context and understanding of wildlife needs.

 

Falcon Monitoring Challenge The Falcon Monitoring Challenge, part of IROS 2024 being held from 14-18 October 2024 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), presents a unique opportunity to foster collaboration. By bringing together robotics experts, computer vision specialists, and seasoned conservationists, the challenge encourages a dialogue that can lead to innovative solutions tailored to the needs of wildlife conservation in the UAE and the world.

 

Participants at the Challenge will design, develop, and deploy sophisticated non-invasive systems to track the movement of falcons, within a large enclosure, promoting innovation in wildlife monitoring technology. The challenge will take place in a purpose-built arena in Abu Dhabi during IROS 2024 where the full challenge includes prototyping the solution with hardware and custom software.

 

Participants can also take part in a partial challenge where teams or individuals propose custom software using cameras to monitor falcons in realistic and dynamic environments, focusing on precision, innovation, and the ability to analyse complex behaviours.

 

Leverage cutting-edge technology
The challenge could result in robots designed to track falcons in real-time, which can help wildlife biologists understand the bird’s hunting patterns and social dynamics. Such a partnership can yield technologies that are not only advanced but aligned with the ecological realities that conservationists face every day.

 

A prime example of this progress can be seen at Khalifa University, which has made significant contributions to wildlife conservation through its innovative research and interdisciplinary approach. Faculty members are actively engaged in projects that leverage cutting-edge technology to monitor ecosystems and protect the houbara species.

 

By collaborating with the International Fund for Houbara Conservation (IFHC), Khalifa University focuses on scientific research and training including robotics, intelligent systems, genetics and genomics in breeding projects, implementing practical solutions to conservation challenges.

 

Khalifa University’s commitment to world-class learning and research fosters a new generation of conservationists, equipped with the skills necessary to address the complexities of wildlife preservation in a rapidly changing world.

By allowing tech developers to gain insights into the on-ground challenges faced by conservationists, the challenge also serves as a platform for shared learning through several workshops, seminars, exhibitions and conferences at IROS 2024.

 

When conservationists are actively involved in the design and
implementation of technological tools, they are more likely to advocate for their use and ensure that these innovations are employed ethically and responsibly.

 

As we face unprecedented biodiversity loss, we must harness the strengths of innovation and traditional methods to create a comprehensive approach to wildlife preservation. The Falcon Monitoring Challenge at IROS 2024 represents a critical step in this direction, and it is imperative we unite these two vital forces for conservation.

 

Dr. Hamad Karki is the Competitions Local Chair at IROS 2024
Competitions Technical Committee and Associate Professor at the
Department of Mechanical and Nuclear Engineering, Khalifa University.

 

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KUCARS set to showcase rich portfolio of research projects at IROS 2024 /kucars-set-to-showcase-rich-portfolio-of-research-projects-at-iros-2024 /kucars-set-to-showcase-rich-portfolio-of-research-projects-at-iros-2024#respond Mon, 14 Oct 2024 10:28:07 +0000 /?p=98581

The Khalifa University Centre for Robotics and Autonomous Systems (KUCARS) is set to showcase its rich portfolio of research projects in the field of robotics at the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024).   The event is expected to further cement the UAE’s position as a global hub for research and …

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The Khalifa University Centre for Robotics and Autonomous Systems (KUCARS) is set to showcase its rich portfolio of research projects in the field of robotics at the IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems (IROS 2024).

 

The event is expected to further cement the UAE’s position as a global hub for research and innovation in robotics and Al, said Prof. Lakmal Seneviratne, the founding Director of KUCARS at Khalifa University, in an exclusive interview with Aletihad.

 

Advancing National Goals

Prof. Seneviratne shared insights into the university’s pivotal role in this transformative field and its alignment with the UAE’s broader goals.

 

“Robotics and Al play a prominent role in the UAE’s national vision for innovation and technological advancement,” he said. Prof. Seneviratne added that KUCARS is one of the top robotics research centres in the region with a vibrant community of 80+ multi-disciplinary researchers, state-of-the-art labs, and an established international reputation, “as evidenced by the award to host IROS 2024”.

 

He noted that KUCARS’s contributions to research, innovation and education uniquely position it to play a crucial role in advancing the UAE’s vision of becoming a technology hub for robotics and AI.

 

A First in the Middle East

Hosted for the first time in the Middle East by Khalifa University of Science and Technology (Khalifa University), the 36th edition of IROS runs from October 14 to 18, at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. The event not only marks a significant achievement for Khalifa University but also a defining moment for the UAE’s research community.

 

Prof. Seneviratne said: “IROS has been in operation for 35 years now and this will be the first time IROS will be held in the Middle East and outside Europe, North America and the far east. This is a great achievement for KU and the UAE, and testament to the strong international reputation in robotics at KUCARS.”

 

Sustainability Focus

Sustainability is a key focus area for KUCARS. Prof. Seneviratne noted that IROS 2024 will delve into how robotics and Al can be leveraged to further the UN’s 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs). KUCARS is currently leading research projects related to robotics and SDGs in areas of food security, smart cities, manufacturing, conservation, ocean monitoring and education, he added.

 

Innovative Al Applications

According to Prof. Seneviratne, IROS 2024 will also showcase how AI is revolutionizing various industries and everyday life, from autonomous vehicles and UAV taxis in transport to robotic surgeons and telemedicine solutions in healthcare, factory automation in manufacturing, home robots for domestic chores, marine robots for underwater exploration, Agri robotics, robotics for smart cities, space rovers, conservation robotics, and climate change mitigation robotics.

 

“Robotics and Al is the engine of the 4th industrial revolution now underway. These technologies will transform the way we live and work. They will have a wide range of impacts in all spheres of life,” said Prof. Seneviratne.

 

Under the theme “Robotics for Sustainable Development”, IROS 2024 will gather researchers, academics, leading corporate majors, and industry professionals from around the globe. The event provides a platform for the international robotics community to exchange knowledge and ideas about the latest advances in intelligent robots and smart machines.

 

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Khalifa University and Abu Dhabi Investment Office to develop largest student accommodation project in GCC /abu-dhabi-investment-office-and-khalifa-university-to-develop-largest-student-accommodation-project-in-gcc /abu-dhabi-investment-office-and-khalifa-university-to-develop-largest-student-accommodation-project-in-gcc#respond Wed, 31 Jul 2024 09:36:51 +0000 /?p=96952

Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), in collaboration withĚýKhalifa University of Science and Technology (Khalifa University), has awarded KUnnected Living, a multinational consortium led by Plenary Group, BESIX Group and Mazrui International, a project to develop world-class student accommodation facilities in Abu Dhabi. The project has now successfully reached commercial close.   The development is the …

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, in collaboration withĚý, has awarded KUnnected Living, a multinational consortium led by Plenary Group, BESIX Group and Mazrui International, a project to develop world-class student accommodation facilities in Abu Dhabi. The project has now successfully reached commercial close.

 

The development is the largest student accommodation project in the GCC be developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, and includes a 23-year concession to design, build, finance and maintain 3,260 student rooms and communal facilities located across Khalifa University’s Main Campus and its Sas Al Nakhl (SAN) Campus.

 

A signing ceremony took place atĚýĚýto mark the commencement of the PPP concession period and the on-site construction activities.

 

The student accommodation project is being implemented through Abu Dhabi’s proven and successful Public Private Partnership Programme, which seeks to expand the role of the private sector in delivering major public sector infrastructure and services. ADIO is the central Abu Dhabi Government authority responsible for the facilitation, development and procurement of all infrastructure projects delivered through the PPP framework.

 

The project underpins Khalifa University’s commitment to provide world-class accommodation solutions that promote a vibrant on-campus student living experience, alongside a rich and inclusive social environment, for local and international students alike. Designed to meet international best practices, the new facilities will offer technology-enabled ensuite rooms for undergraduates and ensuite studios for post-graduate students, as well as expansive communal spaces that include support services, central study areas, fitness studios, a gym, and commercial and retail areas.

 

The new student accommodation facilities form a key part of Khalifa University’s 10-year strategic growth plan to enhance and modernise its teaching, research and living offerings. The research, enterprise and innovation-oriented university remains top ranked in the UAE and is placed 202nd worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2024.

 

The PPP project is set to boost Abu Dhabi’s economy through the attraction of foreign direct investment, and will support of local suppliers and manufacturers by drawing local content and products from the national supply chain for the purposes of development and operation.

 

Plenary, one of the key partners in the KUnnected Living consortium, is an independent long-term investor, developer and manager of public infrastructure that specialises in PPPs and has recently been awarded a US$3.3 billion investment project for La Trobe University in Australia. BESIX Group is a major Belgian-French construction and property developer, with PPP concession experience in the education sector that has been operating in the region for 50 years. Mazrui International is a privately held diversified holding company that operates across numerous industries and asset classes.

 

Yaser Al Nuaimi, Acting Head – Infrastructure Partnerships at ADIO, said: “In Abu Dhabi, we are committed to ensuring that the private sector can play a significant role in strategic infrastructure projects that will create impact and value across the emirate. The Khalifa University accommodation project is a leading example of this: it demonstrates efficient PPP delivery through an effective commercial partnership that supports the development of premier facilities for students choosing to pursue their studies and research in our top-ranked educational facilities.”

 

Dr Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office to award the student accommodation public-private partnership contract to the consortium comprising BESIX, Plenary Group, and Mazrui International. This initiative is part of our strategy to provide improved campus facilities and accommodation for an enhanced student living experience, and it seeks to enhance our reputation as one of the leading universities in the region with high-quality infrastructure megaprojects in the education sector.”

 

David Lamming, CEO at Plenary Group, said: “The KUnnected Living consortium is honoured to be selected to deliver the largest on-campus student accommodation developments in the GCC region. We commend the Abu Dhabi Government on its impressive, continued programme of infrastructure development and look forward to working in partnership with ADIO and Khalifa University of Science and Technology to deliver this world-class integrated precinct.”

 

All PPP tenders in Abu Dhabi follow a competitive, transparent and efficient evaluation process in accordance with Abu Dhabi’s PPP Law, and ADIO’s Partnership Projects Guidebook and Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy.

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Khalifa University And Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge launch STEM programme /abu-dhabi-department-of-education-and-knowledge-and-khalifa-university-launch-stem-programme /abu-dhabi-department-of-education-and-knowledge-and-khalifa-university-launch-stem-programme#respond Wed, 03 Jul 2024 11:25:58 +0000 /?p=96058

Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK)ĚýandĚýKhalifa University of Science and TechnologyĚýhave collaborated to shape future-ready STEM leaders by elevating the skills and knowledge of teachers and 11th grade students in Abu Dhabi’sĚýCharter Schools.   The dual-focused programme will enhance STEM teaching capacities while facilitating students’ transition from high school to university, preparing them …

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ĚýandĚýĚýhave collaborated to shape future-ready STEM leaders by elevating the skills and knowledge of teachers and 11th grade students in Abu Dhabi’sĚý.

 

The dual-focused programme will enhance STEM teaching capacities while facilitating students’ transition from high school to university, preparing them for academic excellence.

 

The comprehensive one-year programme will see teachers across charter schools in the emirate undergo in-depth training provided by a world-class faculty from Khalifa University. The programme includes peer mentorship, which involves Khalifa University faculty and students providing personalised support and guidance to charter school students.

 

Dr Ahmed Sultan Alshoaibi, Acting Executive Director of the Higher Education Sector at ADEK, said: “Joining forces with Khalifa University, we reaffirm our commitment to establish robust, purpose-driven partnerships that bridge the gap between academia and industry. Through this initiative, our goal is to provide students with upskilling opportunities at any stage of their academic journey, ensuring they are equipped to join top higher education institutions. Our collaborative programme sets the stage for success in these pivotal disciplines, nurturing the foundational assets of Abu Dhabi’s human-knowledge capital.”

 

Teachers undergoing the one-year specialised training will gain insights into student’s proficiency levels, allowing them to effectively tailor learning environments according to each student’s level. They will also learn how to fully integrate and adapt new teaching methodologies using technology and various digital platforms.

 

The peer mentorship model is designed to foster a supportive environment that encourages curiosity, a sense of belonging and enhanced learning experiences, all while drawing inspiration from accomplished role models in the STEM field. Eligible students will be selected based on their academic performance in mathematics, as evidenced by MAP Growth study results and teachers’ recommendations.

 

Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President at Khalifa University, said: “We are delighted to collaborate with Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge on this transformative programme to elevate STEM education across Charter Schools in Abu Dhabi. Aligning with the directives of the UAE’s wise leadership to boost human capital development, we aim to equip the next generation of Emirati leaders with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in STEM fields through world-class training for teachers and personalised mentorship to students. Alongside facilitating a seamless transition from high school to university, we aim to create a lasting impact, inspiring a lifelong interest for mathematics and the sciences among participants, preparing students for the academic excellence we foster at Khalifa University.”

 

The programme has started at Al Ghad School – Charter Schools as an inaugural phase to enhance problem-solving skills and empower students to apply mathematical concepts in real-life situations adeptly. Ultimately, it will help them boost EmSAT math scores, master test-taking strategies through the ALEKS online assessment platform, strengthen academic skills, cultivate personal growth, develop communication and teamwork abilities, and foster interest in mathematics by introducing the inaugural Musabaqat math competition for high school students.

 

With a one-year timeline, the pilot programme will utilise diverse teaching methodologies, catering to the diverse learning needs of participating students by combining a rigorous math curriculum with hands-on exercises, as well as leveraging innovative tools and techniques, including ALEKS and peer mentoring.

 

Following the pilot phase, the programme will be implemented across all Abu Dhabi Charter Schools at a later stage.

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