A Landmark Partnership Between Academia and Industry
American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Emirates Petroleum Company PJSC (Emarat) have entered into a strategic partnership through a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration is designed to create meaningful connections between academic knowledge and real-world industry applications, enhancing opportunities for students, faculty, and professionals alike.
Signed at the AUS campus by Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS, and His Excellency Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi, CEO of Emarat, the agreement was celebrated in the presence of senior officials from both organizations. This partnership represents a shared commitment to innovation, talent development, and community-oriented initiatives in the UAE.
Bridging Education and Real-World Experience
Chancellor Laursen emphasized that the partnership goes beyond traditional collaborations. “By engaging our students in projects that study and reimagine service stations, supporting their professional growth, and investing in executive learning for Emarat teams, we are aligning academic strength with real sector needs,” he said. This approach ensures that students gain hands-on experience while contributing to practical solutions for the energy and mobility sector.
His Excellency Ali Khalifa Al Shamsi highlighted the mutual benefits of the collaboration. “This partnership brings together Emarat’s operational expertise and AUS’ academic strength to develop the next generation of talent. Real business challenges will become learning and research opportunities, shaping the future of retail energy and mobility in the UAE.” He also noted the importance of executive education, internships, and career pathways for students and alumni, reinforcing Emarat’s commitment to the nation’s youth.
Student Projects and Innovation Studios
One of the key initiatives under the MoU is the creation of a sponsored studio at the AUS College of Architecture, Art, and Design. Here, students will have the chance to study, explore, and propose concepts for the future of Emarat service stations. The studio will focus on improving operations, serving community needs, and adapting to evolving customer expectations.
This hands-on approach ensures that students can directly apply their academic skills to real-world challenges. The collaboration encourages creativity, problem-solving, and research-driven solutions that can be implemented in the energy and mobility sector.
Executive Education and Professional Growth
The partnership also emphasizes executive training and professional development for Emarat staff. Tailored programs will equip employees with advanced skills and knowledge, strengthening their capacity to innovate and lead within the organization.
By fostering continuous learning, the MoU supports Emarat’s focus on enhancing customer experiences, operational efficiency, and workforce development. This aspect of the collaboration ensures that knowledge flows both ways—from academia to industry and vice versa.
Career Opportunities and Alumni Benefits
AUS students and alumni will benefit from structured internships and employment pathways at Emarat. These opportunities will allow them to gain meaningful industry experience, build professional networks, and explore long-term career prospects in the energy sector.
Additionally, as part of the agreement, Emarat will provide AUS alumni, students, faculty, and staff with complimentary Gold tier status in the Emarat Emcan Loyalty Program. This initiative further strengthens the connection between the university community and Emarat’s operations.
Expanding Collaborative Opportunities
The MoU sets a framework for future joint initiatives, including student-led marketing projects, community engagement activities, and participation in key AUS advancement events. Both institutions are committed to exploring further areas of collaboration that promote innovation, knowledge exchange, and community impact.
This partnership reflects AUS’ ongoing commitment to building purposeful relationships with leading national institutions, while Emarat continues to focus on customer-centric innovation, workforce development, and societal contributions.
Driving Innovation and Future-Ready Talent
The AUS-Emarat collaboration is more than an academic-industry agreement. It is a forward-looking strategy to equip students and professionals with the skills and knowledge needed for the rapidly evolving energy and mobility sectors. By combining academic excellence with practical insights, both institutions are fostering innovation, leadership, and a culture of lifelong learning.
Through this partnership, AUS and Emarat aim to create an ecosystem where research, professional growth, and real-world applications intersect, benefiting students, employees, and the wider UAE community.
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