Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates: Today, Sheikh Khalid bin Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Investment and Development Office in Ras Al Khaimah, witnessed the graduation ceremony of the twelfth batch of students from the American University of Ras Al Khaimah who hold bachelor’s and postgraduate degrees, numbering 186 male and female students from various backgrounds. Colleges and academic majors.

Sheikh Khalid bin Saud Al Qasimi expressed his best wishes to the graduates for continued success in all their future endeavors, encouraging them to persevere in their studies to achieve their personal goals, and urging them to assume leadership positions through which they can meaningfully contribute to the progress and growth of their countries and communities.

Sheikh Khalid awarded diplomas to 186 male and female students - 148 bachelor's degree holders and 37 master's and graduate certificate graduates in education - with the US Ambassador to the UAE, Her Excellency Martina Strong, as guest of honor.

Nearly 50 percent of the graduating class of 2023 at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah were female students.

Dr. David Schmidt, president of AURAK, urged graduates to “value and appreciate the love, support, and friendship of colleagues and parents, as well as the role of mentors—members of AURAK’s faculty—who “inspired your intellectual curiosity, stimulated your learning, and provided Academic support, and they often lent a helping hand.”

“As you embark on this new chapter of your life, I hope that your time at AURAK will be reflected back fondly more often,” he added. Although today marks the end of your journey at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, you will always be part of the university's continuing story. You will now move forward as a legacy of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah and contribute to your community and community as proud alumni and global citizens.

“Because it will soon be your responsibility to create opportunities, provide support, show kindness, and extend a helping hand to others. Be the “beacon” that lights the way for others.”

The graduates received their certificates in the presence of His Excellency Salem Ali Al Sharhan, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, and members of the Board of Directors. Her Excellency Martina Strong, Ambassador of the United States of America to the United Arab Emirates. Her Excellency Megan Grigonis, Consul General of the United States of America in the United Arab Emirates. President of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah, David Schmidt; The university’s administrative leadership team and faculty members.

In her speech at the graduation ceremony, Her Excellency US Ambassador Martina Strong focused on the challenges and opportunities awaiting graduates of the American University of Ras Al Khaimah in relation to the historic deliberations taking place at COP28 in Dubai.

She singled out five lessons from COP28 - always lead with courage and conviction. Remember that in every challenge and in every problem, there lies an opportunity. Don't leave anyone out or leave anyone behind. Never lose sight of the big picture and what and who really matters in your life.

“You may be wondering why the lessons from a conference are so relevant to you and the life you hope to live,” the Ambassador said. “The answer is very simple. The decisions and actions taken by COP28 will directly impact almost everything that is important to your future. The economy, health, environment, climate, stability and security of every system.” Almost international, all of it will be shaped by this consequential event.”

Mr. Mohamed Rabie Aziz delivered the valedictorian speech, saying: “Looking back on our ‘eventful’ journey with ups and downs, we have learned how to deal with the worst and how to soar high when the best is happening. We have learned a world-class education from equally excellent teachers with potential.” Access to first-class tools to help them... I am a firm believer in what the late Sheikh Zayed said about education: ‘It is like a lantern that lights your way in a dark alley.’ Let us make it our mission to shine light on the world with lanterns in our hands.”

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