Education

Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has strengthened its academic and research partnerships with leading German institutions following a high-level visit to Munich, aimed at expanding collaboration in smart learning, artificial intelligence (AI), innovation, scientific research and business incubation.

The delegation, led by His Excellency Dr Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU, held a series of strategic meetings with the Bavarian University of Business and Technology and representatives of the Bavarian Industry Association to explore opportunities for joint research, academic cooperation and stronger links between higher education and industry.

The delegation also included Dr Fahad Alsaadi, Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs; Professor Dr Ahmed Ankit, Dean of Scientific Research and Doctoral Studies; and Dr Shaima Al Harmoodi, Associate Professor at the School of Business and Quality Management.

During the visit, Dr Mansoor Al Awar presented HBMSU's academic strategy, highlighting the university's adoption of smart learning methodologies, digital education and programmes designed to equip students with the skills needed for the evolving global labour market.

Discussions focused on exchanging expertise in smart education, scientific research, innovation ecosystems and business incubation, while exploring modern teaching models, university-industry collaboration and opportunities to launch joint research initiatives.

The meetings were also attended by His Excellency Dr Ahmed Albanna, UAE Ambassador and Member of the Board of Directors of the German-Arab Friendship Association, who reaffirmed his support for strengthening academic and economic cooperation between the UAE and Germany.

He described the collaboration between HBMSU and the Bavarian University of Business and Technology as an important platform for promoting knowledge exchange, innovation and talent development between the two countries.

As part of the visit, the two universities presented their institutional strategies and areas of expertise before signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for future academic and research collaboration.

Dr Mansoor Al Awar said international partnerships have become essential for building education systems capable of responding to rapid technological and economic transformation.

He noted that the collaboration with German academic and industrial institutions supports the development of more flexible education models, strengthens applied scientific research and prepares graduates for the future economy.

He added that emerging technologies and artificial intelligence are reshaping education and employment, making it increasingly important for universities to collaborate closely with industry while encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship.

Dr Shaima Al Harmoodi said the visit provided valuable opportunities to exchange expertise in innovation, business incubation and university-industry partnerships, while opening new avenues for collaborative scientific research and support for start-ups.

She added that stronger international cooperation and knowledge exchange are essential to preparing future talent capable of transforming innovative ideas into solutions with lasting economic and societal impact.

The delegation also met with senior representatives from the Bavarian Industry Association and German business leaders to explore opportunities for deeper cooperation between academia, industry and scientific research.

According to HBMSU, the visit reinforces the university's commitment to expanding its global partnerships while supporting the UAE's vision for innovation, talent development and international competitiveness through stronger collaboration between higher education, industry and emerging technologies.

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