University of Sharjah Achieves Platinum Sustainability Rating: A Historic Milestone for Higher Education in the Middle East
Sharjah, UAE – In a significant achievement for higher education in the region, the University of Sharjah (UoS) has become the first institution in the Middle East to be awarded a Platinum Rating under the Sustainability Tracking, Assessment & Rating System (STARS), a benchmark for sustainability in higher education administered by the Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE). This prestigious recognition places UoS among an elite group of institutions worldwide, joining the ranks of just 14 other universities globally that have attained this highest level of sustainability accreditation.
His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and President of the University of Sharjah, expressed his pride in this landmark achievement. “This recognition not only highlights the university’s commitment to sustainable education and research but also underscores our broader aspirations to excel on the global stage,” he remarked, emphasizing the university’s role in shaping future leaders who are conscious of environmental responsibilities.
The STARS Platinum Rating is awarded to institutions that demonstrate exceptional performance across multiple sustainability criteria. Notably, UoS achieved a perfect score of 100 percent in the category of sustainable education and research, showcasing its robust framework for integrating sustainability into its academic offerings. This not only enhances the learning environment for students but also promotes a culture of sustainability within the broader community.
This accolade comes on the heels of UoS’s progressive journey through the STARS program, having initially earned a Silver rating in 2021, followed by a Gold rating in 2022. The university has made considerable strides in enhancing its operations, planning, and educational methodologies to incorporate sustainable practices fully. It serves as a compelling model for other institutions in the region, illustrating the tangible benefits of embracing sustainability as a core institutional value.
The recognition from STARS aligns smoothly with the UAE and Sharjah’s strategic objectives to foster a knowledge-based economy that prioritizes sustainability and innovation. The UAE Vision 2021 and Sharjah’s own economic aspirations emphasize the importance of creating sustainable practices across various sectors, particularly in education and research. With the Platinum rating, UoS is well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to these strategic goals.
The success of this venture is a reflection of the unwavering support from the university’s leadership. HH Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed extended his congratulations to the board of trustees, university administrators, faculty, staff, and students for their collective efforts in achieving this historic milestone. “This accomplishment is a testament to our collaborative spirit and commitment to academic excellence and community engagement,” he added, asserting that this achievement will propel UoS to further heights of educational and research excellence.
The university’s focus on fostering an enriching academic environment encompasses various enhancements in curriculum development, student engagement, support for innovative research, and improvements in faculty quality. These components are critical in nurturing an educational ecosystem that is not only concerned with academic success but also with instilling values of sustainability and social responsibility among students.
The implications of UoS’s Platinum rating extend beyond academia. As the university now stands as a model of sustainability, it invites potential collaborations with industries and other sectors that are striving to meet their own sustainability goals. Such partnerships could lead to a vibrant exchange of ideas and resources, further amplifying the impact of UoS’s sustainability initiatives across wider spheres.
In conclusion, the University of Sharjah’s journey to achieving the Platinum Rating under the STARS framework is not merely an isolated success; it represents a profound commitment to ensuring that future generations of leaders are equipped not just with knowledge but also with the ethical underpinnings of sustainability and environmental stewardship. This achievement heralds a new chapter in the development of higher education in the Middle East, setting a precedent for other universities in the region to aspire towards.
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