Sharjah24: The University of Sharjah discussed the general features of the strategic plan for the Sharjah Oasis for Technology, and Innovation (SOTI). His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohamed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Sharjah, and President of the University laid the foundation stone for it on an area of more than 93 hectares on the outskirts of Sharjah and Khorfakkan. This with the aim of becoming a convenient center that attracts pioneering scientific research activities, the production of technological innovations, the development of knowledge-based economic projects, and the establishment of partnerships with universities, institutions, and related sectors.

This took place during a special workshop held remotely in the presence of members of the University of Sharjah’s Board of Trustees.

Dr. Obaid Al Muhairi, Former Executive Dean of Arabic Language and UAE Studies - Higher Colleges of Technology and Board of Trustees member, chaired the workshop. His Excellency Prof. Hamid M.K. Al Naimiy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, attended the workshop along with all the University’s Board of Trustees. 

During the meeting, the Chancellor of the University and Chairman of the SOTI Committee, presented an introductory overview of the Sharjah Oasis for Technology, and Innovation, and its distinguished geographical location. He indicated that it is a free zone wholly owned by the University of Sharjah. It has a center for research, innovation, and development, providing an inspiring opportunity for our society, industry, and business sectors. It also provides new knowledge and advanced skills for graduates, and supporting pioneering applied research in the areas of quality of life and the sustainability of our society.

The strategic plan of SOTI, he added, has been set among its priorities to be an entity in which the government, industrial, academic and community sectors meet to work on developing a harmonious system for applied research that combines scientific research and industrial activities to achieve societal and economic well-being. The Oasis will also promote the development of products and services - digital and technological - as it is intended to include several centers, facilities, and infrastructure to serve the targeted scientific disciplines, the most important of which are information and communication technology, artificial intelligence, and robotics. It also covers the technological developments related to next-generation technologies, such as sustainable technology for sustainable consumption and production patterns, renewable energy production, storage and distribution and ensuring access to modern sustainable energy. As well as work on medical advances in devices, drugs, vaccines, procedures, and systems, to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.

Dr. David Carter, Director of the Office of Strategic Planning of the University of Sharjah, reviewed the basic components of the strategic plan for SOTI for 2021-2030, explaining a set of main pillars that will be worked on during the next stage. Those include cooperation, entrepreneurship, establishing an advanced and innovative smart city, and sustainability. The same healthy and natural systems that aim to form a realistic environment that provides innovative solutions aimed at governmental, industrial, academic and community institutions. He added that the strategic plan also includes a set of general objectives, including the establishment of a research ecosystem based on innovation and creativity to serve different aspects of life, and the promotion and development of technology and sustainable development. The plan also specified the time frame for action at the various local, Gulf, regional and international levels.

The members of the University’s Board of Trustees presented a set of proposals and recommendations that would contribute to developing an integrated vision for work within SOTI.