Sharjah24: The University of Sharjah’s College of Pharmacy concluded its second annual student conference, “Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Pharmacy,” a two-day event held at Al Razi Hall in the university’s Medical and Health Sciences campus. The conference aimed to bridge academic learning with industry demands while equipping students with insights into evolving opportunities within the UAE’s pharmaceutical sector.
The event featured interactive workshops, research presentations, and competitions designed to hone practical skills. Attendees participated in contests such as scientific poster displays, pharmaceutical advisory simulations, and awareness video productions, highlighting innovative solutions to contemporary challenges in drug development and patient care. Over 10 UAE-based universities, including UAE University, Ajman University, Al Ain University, Higher Colleges of Technology, Dubai Medical University, Gulf Medical University, Fatima College of Health Sciences, and Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University, competed in these categories, with winners recognized by a panel of industry and academic experts.
Supported by Modern Pharmaceutical Company (MPC), the conference emphasized collaboration between students and professionals. Participating firms offered free medical screenings, fostering health awareness while showcasing career pathways in clinical practice, research, and entrepreneurship. Keynote speakers included Dr. Wael Al-Naim, Clinical Pharmacy Residency Program Director at Abu Dhabi Health Services (SEHA) and Director of the Pharmacy Department at Sheikh Khalifa Medical City in Abu Dhabi; Dr. Laila Yousfi from Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi; Dr. Kholoud Al-Sayegh, Head of the Clinical Standards and Guidelines Department at the Dubai Health Authority; Engineer Rafif Fayed, Professional Trainer; Dr. Anas Majed Hanini, Clinical Pharmacist at the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi Pharmacy; and Dr. Carlos Rangel of Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, who discussed advancements in personalized medicine and AI-driven drug discovery.
In an inspiring opening address, Prof. Qutayba Hamid, Vice Chancellor for Medical and Health Sciences Colleges at the University of Sharjah, underscored the vital role of innovation and cross-institutional collaboration in shaping the future of pharmacy and healthcare in the UAE. Speaking at the opening session of the conference, Prof. Hamid described the event as a prime opportunity to strengthen ties between academic institutions across the Emirates. He highlighted the importance of innovation in pharmaceutical sciences, calling it a driving force behind advancements in drug development and modern medicine. He emphasized that such gatherings are more than academic exercises—they are strategic platforms designed to cultivate both scientific knowledge and hands-on expertise among students. “Our aim,” he said, “is to inspire the next generation of pharmacy leaders and guide them toward pioneering roles in an evolving job market.”
Prof. Hamid also noted that the university and its College of Pharmacy are fully equipped to support students through interdisciplinary education, offering a wide range of tools and resources to help them thrive. He extended his heartfelt appreciation to the faculty for their unwavering commitment to delivering dynamic academic programs, which, he said, play a crucial role in preparing graduates to lead with innovation and excellence in their professional fields.
Prof. Karem Al-Zoubi, Dean of the College of Pharmacy, praised sponsors and participants for their role in elevating pharmaceutical education, noting that such initiatives “prepare students to lead in a rapidly transforming global industry.”
In a heartfelt address on behalf of the pharmacy students, Aryam Al-Saadi expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support and opportunities provided by the University of Sharjah. She spoke proudly of her affiliation with an institution that, in her words, “fosters achievement and empowers student potential in alignment with the university’s visionary mission.”
Al-Saadi described the conference as a testament to the university’s ongoing commitment to student development, calling it a direct result of the nurturing environment cultivated on campus. “This event is not just an academic milestone,” she said, “but a reflection of our shared pursuit of a brighter future that echoes the aspirations of our nation’s leadership.”
She praised the conference as a vibrant, interactive platform for exchanging ideas and exploring the latest advances in pharmacy. Showcasing cutting-edge developments, she added, opens exciting new horizons for students and contributes meaningfully to enhancing both their scientific knowledge and practical expertise.
For an optimal experience, please
