WEBDESK, July 25, 2025 — In a historic ceremony at the University of Exeter, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah and alumnus, was presented with the first‑ever Honorary President’s Medal, marking the institution’s inaugural award of this distinction. The honour was conferred in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to education, research, and sustained collaboration with the university.
The award ceremony — held at Reed Hall and overseen by Sir Michael Barber, Honorary President of the University — took place in the presence of notable dignitaries, including Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the American University of Sharjah (wam.ae).
In a heartfelt address, His Highness reflected on his enduring connection to Exeter, saying:
“This distinguished institution welcomed me as a student over forty years ago… and it remains a lasting part of my academic journey and cherished memories ever since” (wam.ae).
Unveiling the Al Qasimi Building
Coinciding with the medal presentation, His Highness officially unveiled the foundation stone for the new Al Qasimi Building — a landmark expansion of the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies. Designed as a hub for teaching and research, the building’s architectural vision blends modern academic spaces with symbolic elements of Arab and Islamic design.
A new publication corner was also inaugurated within the institute’s library, featuring a comprehensive collection of Sheikh Sultan’s works — more than 118 titles translated into over 20 languages — alongside rare historical archives and a special edition of the Historical Dictionary of the Arabic Language (wam.ae).
Strengthening Educational Partnerships
During the visit, a formal cooperation agreement was signed between the Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research (SCHESR) and the University of Exeter. This agreement launches the “Leadership Compass” programme, aimed at grooming future university leaders from Sharjah with governance, inclusion, and strategic skills. It further cements long‑standing academic alliances across fields such as marine sciences, geology, environmental studies, and special education.
The University Chancellor, Professor Lisa Roberts, praised His Highness as a visionary whose generosity and leadership have shaped world-class educational institutions in the UAE. She described the partnership between Exeter and Sharjah — which stretches back over four decades and includes landmark joint programmes — as a model of international academic collaboration.
Students and alumni also shared their appreciation. Martha Holden, representing graduates of the Institute of Arab and Islamic Studies, expressed heartfelt gratitude:
“I sincerely thank Your Highness for your generous support… It enriched my study of the Arabic language in meaningful ways”.
Significance & Legacy
- Exeter Medal: First awarded in 2025, honouring an alumnus whose influence spans education, culture, and international collaboration.
- Al Qasimi Building: A flagship project reflecting a shared vision to invest in knowledge and cross‑cultural scholarship.
- Strategic Collaborations: Innovations in marine research, inclusive education, and leadership development reflect deep ties between Exeter and Sharjah.
His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi’s return to Exeter — where he earned his PhD in history in 1985 — underlines a deeply personal and academic bond. The ceremony and accompanying initiatives stand as symbols of his lifelong commitment to advancing education, culture, and global dialogue.
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