UAEU Team Secures 1st Place at Sharjah Sustainability Award in University Category

Among 235 qualitative projects, the UAEU team stood out for its commitment to promoting a culture of sustainability and collaborative environmental action

A student team from UAEU has won first place at the Sharjah Sustainability Award (SSA) in the Universities Category, for their outstanding (SURE PLUS) academic project. The winning project was titled: “GIS-Driven Risk Assessment of Stormwater Management in Al Ain’s Urban Development”. The project was presented by students Hind Abdulrahman Al Hammadi and Meera Khalfan Saeed Salem Al Shamsi, under the supervision of Dr. Mona Saad Ramadan and Ms. Shamma Al Badwawi.

Prof. Naeema Al Hosani, Chair of the Department of Geography and Urban Sustainability at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, noted that:“This accomplishment reflects the University’s commitment to promoting sustainability and advancing innovation in applied research that serves the UAE’s urban and environmental development, and aligns with the wise leadership’s vision and the country’s future agenda. This experience represents a strong motivation for university students to continue engaging in research and innovation for a sustainable and prosperous future for the UAE.”

The uniqueness of the (SURE PLUS) project lies in its academic and applied collaboration between geosciences and urban planning. The students used GIS technologies to produce accurate maps identifying flood-prone areas in Al Ain, along with a comprehensive risk assessment and practical, sustainable solutions. The project aims to support decision-makers and urban planners in enhancing infrastructure and improving cities’ responsiveness to extreme weather conditions.

The research was distinguished by its inclusive use of geographical data, field studies, and multi-source data analysis, offering an integrated perspective on the challenges and opportunities in water resource management amid rapid urban development.

The students noted that the (SURE PLUS) project has contributed significantly to enhancing their spatial data analysis skills, and their ability to work with advanced GIS tools and technologies. It also empowered them to actively engage with the scientific and professional community both within and beyond the UAE.

This win represents a crowning achievement in UAEU’s continuous academic and applied efforts to support the UAE’s agenda in sustainable development and environmental innovation.