This took place during the fourth meeting of the Board of Trustees of the University of Kalba, held at the university's headquarters on Thursday. His Highness reaffirmed his unwavering support for the development of the sports sector through the establishment of sports facilities and the training of professionals to advance various sports disciplines.
Encouragement for sports disciplines
His Highness urged students to focus on diverse sports specializations offered by the university, particularly sports medicine, which is globally recognised for its importance and rarity in universities worldwide. He encouraged students to pursue knowledge and expressed hope that this specialisation would significantly benefit the university.
University reputation and partnerships
His Highness noted that the University of Kalba has gained a distinguished reputation in sports among major universities, revealing that prestigious institutions are eager to collaborate and sign agreements to enhance academic offerings in sports disciplines.
Academic progress and initiatives
The Board of Trustees discussed several agenda items related to monitoring academic work at the university to enhance various academic programmes. They reviewed a report from Dr. Najwa Al Hosani, Director of University of Kalba, detailing achievements and initiatives that reflect the university's efforts to strengthen its academic standing and community service.
Establishment of a center for educational excellence
The council discussed the establishment of a Center for Educational Excellence, which has been approved in the new structure of Kalba University. This initiative aligns with the university's strong commitment to academic excellence and the development of the educational process, serving as a central platform for educational innovation and enhancing the quality of education in line with its strategic vision and mission.
The center aims to empower faculty members and improve teaching and learning practices according to the latest global standards. It is based on several core objectives, including: providing specialized professional development programs in modern teaching methods and educational technology, promoting evidence-based teaching practices, and fostering a culture of collaboration and experience sharing among faculty members, while encouraging educational innovation and adopting innovative teaching strategies.
New initiatives and academic collaboration
The board also approved the creation of a nursery for University of Kalba , the restructuring of academic programmes in the College of Business Administration and the College of Arts and Sciences, and the redesign of the university's general education framework.
International academic collaboration
The board reviewed a report on international academic cooperation and the expansion of the University's global partnerships through strategic relationships with renowned academic institutions. Meetings with senior academic leaders worldwide discussed opportunities for collaboration in various fields, including joint academic programmes and scientific research. The report addressed the exchange of experiences in designing and developing academic infrastructure, as well as comprehensive visits and field tours of educational and sports facilities. The aim was to observe best global practices and models of innovation in higher education institutions.
Subcommittee reports
The board examined reports from subcommittees, including academic, financial, compliance, and resource development committees, focusing on recommendations to accelerate scientific and academic advancement within the university.
Visit to motion analysis laboratory
During the meeting, His Highness visited the Motion Analysis Laboratory, which evaluates the movement and functional performance of athletes through detailed analysis. The lab features advanced equipment for muscle electrical planning and optical motion capture systems.
Overview of the sports complex
His Highness reviewed the design of the University’s sports complex, the largest in the region, which aims to provide an ideal environment for students to enhance their learning and skills. The complex will include a gym, indoor running track, and various sports facilities that meet global standards.
The complex will also include two semi-Olympic swimming pools, a wellness center, training halls, and sports laboratories, in addition to a football field, an outdoor running track, and recreational areas. These facilities will serve the students of the University of Kalba and others interested in sports.
Attendees at the Meeting
The meeting was attended by several dignitaries alongside His Highness, including Dr. Abdulaziz bin Butti Al Muhairi, Chairman of Sharjah Health Authority; Abdullah Ibrahim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Human Resources; Issa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of Sharjah Sports Council; Ali Ahmed Al Hosani, Director General of Sharjah Private Education Authority; Dr. Najwa Al Hosani, Director of University of Kalba; Dr. Suleiman bin Sarhan Al Zaabi, former Head of the Municipal Affairs Department; Dr. Abdullah Saleh Al Suwaiji, Executive Director of the Higher Colleges of Technology in Fujairah; Dr. Mariam Salem Al Marashda, former Dean of Student Affairs at the University of the Emirates; Dr. Justin Peter O'Connor, Associate Professor in Sports Science and Measurement at Monash University; Faisal Jassim Al Midfa, Head of Business Financing at Sharjah Islamic Bank; Aisha Redha Al Bayraq, former member of the Federal National Council; and Bashayer Hassan Al Mansoori, Director of the Public Works Department branch in Kalba.