Latest news with #SUAD
Al Etihad
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Timeless songs of Umm Kulthum come to life at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi concert
18 Apr 2025 15:57 AYSHA SHAAYA (ABU DHABI)Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) on Wednesday hosted a concert by Tunisian-Belgian singer Ghalia Benali in tribute to the Arab world's legendary diva Umm Kulthum and in celebration of women's achievements in education, research and the Adhoum on oud, Khaled Abouhegaze on drums and Vincent Noiret on cello accompanied Benali in delivering an immersive musical experience in front of an audience of over 450 at the Zayed Theatre that included Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of State at the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Sheikha Alia bint Khalid Al Qassimi, Managing Director of the UAE National Orchestra. Known for her expressive voice and powerful performances, Benali uses her multicultural influences to fuse classical Arabic music with contemporary genres such as Arabo-flamenco, jazz and world in Belgium and raised in Tunisia, her adoration for the iconic Egyptian singer began in her childhood. "I thought Umm Kulthum was my grandmother. Her presence was always felt in our home, through her music, and the many photos of her hanging on our walls. She is one of us," Benali told Aletihad . Her performance included excerpts of Umm Kulthum's classic Arabic poetry and famous Egyptian Benali's appreciation for Umm Kulthum's work grew, she decided to honour her legacy with her own unique rendition and style of music."I am not singing for Umm Kulthum. I am telling her story through her songs, sharing what she taught me, and what became part of me from her. "When I sing her songs, it is like I am returning to my roots, as if I am yearning to speak to my grandmother," Benali a fan of Ghalia, said: "We have known Ghalia in Tunisia for more than 20 years. She has a unique take on Umm Kulthum's songs." Using only oud, percussion and cello, she rendered an unforgettable performance, he from all ages were taken on a journey of nostalgia, singing along with her and applauding her powerful tribute."Many people say that singing Umm Kulthum's work is hard, but Ghalia is an exception," shared one of Benali's Al Hakim, Chief of Staff at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, told Aletihad the concert aligns with the university's mission of empowering women."Celebrating an icon who was bold in her choices, loved by the public and honoured by all in the Arab world and beyond, gives a strong message to our students about the role that women can play in shaping society, and to pursue their dreams in a world that has considerably evolved," Al Hakim part of the tribute, SUAD officially renamed its iconic Oval Room in honour of Umm Kulthum, designating it as Umm Kulthum Hall, in recognition of her lasting influence as a cultural and artistic icon.
Al Etihad
16-04-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Charm of diversity, cultural exchange shines at Sorbonne University's International Day
17 Apr 2025 00:47 AYSHA SHAAYA (ABU DHABI)Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) on Monday marked International Day, an annual event that celebrates the rich diversity and cultures of its students, faculty, and staff. With colourful displays of cultural performances, traditional attire, music, authentic cuisine and interactive activities, the event brought the community together and showcased the charm of cultural exchange. "Our university is a symbol of cultural diversity. We have more than 1,400 students representing more than 60 nationalities. Today is an occasion to reinforce the mutual understanding between the people and to work together despite the differences," said Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, in her opening in 2006, the university attracts students from all over the world, and its motto "A bridge between civilisations", reflects its emphasis on connecting cultures."What I enjoy the most about International Day at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi is how it brings everyone together to celebrate different cultures," said Maryam Alblooshi, a Record Management and Archival Science student at from celebrating its diversity, the university provided a space for students with private businesses to participate in the event. From handmade crafts to food products, many students sought the opportunity to present their unique ideas and share their passion with their peers."Participating in the event helped me promote my business. People get to see how an Emirati woman can promote her business through authentic work. I believe many people here appreciate this aspect," said Alya Alzaabi, an Applied Foreign Languages student at Raghad Almazroei, a Record Management and Archival Science student at SUAD, the event offered a platform to promote her chocolate business."It helped me gain exposure among my colleagues in the university. The fact that they see the name means it will stay at the back of their heads, even if they don't buy it now," Almazroei Marieme SOW, a Senegalese student studying Applied Foreign Languages at Sorbonne University, said studying in the UAE broadens her horizons. "It helped me have a very open mindset. It showed me that being in a multicultural setting can help someone grow and learn from others. It also showed me that coming from different backgrounds, what unites us is learning from each other's differences."
Al Etihad
10-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrates nation's rich heritage with ‘Threads of Heritage' exhibition
10 Apr 2025 16:20 ABU DHABI (WAM)In a celebration of cultural identity, scholarship, and artistic evolution, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD), in collaboration with the National Library and Archives, the Observatoire des patrimoines de l'Alliance Sorbonne Université, and Dubai Culture, officially opened its cultural exhibition, 'Threads of Heritage: Emirati Women's Traditional Fashion and Jewellery', at the university's as part of the UAE's 2025 Year of Community initiative, the exhibition celebrates UAE's cultural heritage and solidifies its power in instilling collective identity, preserving material culture, and promoting intergenerational to the public until May 3, 2025, the exhibition offers a journey through the rich legacy of Emirati women's attire – from ancient traditions to contemporary interpretations – through a captivating showcase of garments, jewellery, poetry, and historical exhibition has been developed by Dr Christophe Moulherat, Associate Professor in the History of Art & Archaeology Department and textiles specialist in collaboration with archaeologists, heritage scholars, and literary is curated around four main components, showing how the evolution of women's traditional fashion and jewellery is linked to the socioeconomic and historical evolutions of the UAE and how it remains a strong marker of identity.A chronological display of garments & jewellery from the early 20th century to the present day with particular attention to the 1970's as a historical turning point, carefully paired with archaeological artefacts and contextual records to highlight their cultural exhibition also showcases rare archaeological finds of Emirati jewellery and ornaments, complemented by visual documentation that sheds light on their craftsmanship and cultural significance.A third component of the exhibition highlights documentary archives –travelogues, diplomatic records, and personal manuscripts that offer a window into the social and cultural settings in which these garments were poetic reflections are woven throughout the exhibition, featuring excerpts from Emirati poets and classical Arabic literature that celebrates traditional Emirati clothing, enriched by thoughtfully paired artefacts and visuals that add emotional depth and a lyrical layer to the experience. Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, commented, 'At Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, we believe cultural heritage is a living thread that connects the past to the present. Through Threads of Heritage, we are proud to provide a space where the public can engage with the stories, styles, and traditions that have shaped Emirati identity. In the spirit of the UAE's 2025 Year of Community, this exhibition reflects our ongoing mission to celebrate diversity, preserve culture, and spark meaningful dialogue.'
Al Etihad
09-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrates Women's Month with music, art and mentorship
10 Apr 2025 01:36 ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD) Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) has launched a series of initiatives to celebrate women's achievements in education, research and the in line with the university's commitment to promoting gender equality in science and the academic research and art exhibitions to global mentoring programmes and musical tributes, organised under the theme 'For ALL Women and Girls: Rights, Equality, and Empowerment', the university will be hosting a series of engaging events during March and April.• The university will dedicate its iconic Oval Room to the legendary Umm Kulthum. Revered as one of the greatest voices of the Arab world, Umm Kulthum's music transcended borders and generations, standing as a symbol of resilience, artistry, and empowerment. She will be the fifth woman to join the university's pantheon after Olympe de Gouges, Simone de Beauvoir, Germaine Tillion, and Marie Curie as Sorbonne Abu Dhabi honours trailblazing women whose achievements, contributions and lasting impact have shaped history. To honour her legacy and mark the 50th anniversary of her passing, SUAD will host a special tribute concert by renowned artist Ghalia Benali on April 16 at Zayed Theatre, performed by Belgian-Tunisian singer Ghalia Benali and musicians Moufadhel Adhoum (oud), Nasreddine Chebly (drums), and Vincent Noiret (cello).• Running until March 29, the 'Lumières de Femmes' art exhibition at SUAD's Atrium showcases the creativity, resilience and cultural expressions of 23 French and Francophone women artists based in the UAE. Featuring French artists and Emirati artist Khulood Al Jabri, the exhibition is a tribute to women's contributions to the arts, offering a captivating experience for art enthusiasts, students and the wider community. The exhibition is supported by esteemed arts patrons and friends of Sorbonne Abu Dhabi, Fairouz and Jean-Paul Villain.• The university also announced that five outstanding students have been selected for the prestigious Women@Dior & UNESCO Mentoring and Education Programme for 2025-2026. This global programme nurtures female leaders by providing mentorship, leadership training, and access to exclusive Dior & UNESCO educational resources on sustainability, self-awareness, and celebration of International Women's Day, the university has launched a call for proposals, inviting scholars, artists and researchers to explore women's contributions, rights, and empowerment across academic and creative are encouraged to submit proposals focusing on advancing women's rights through research or empowering women through cultural and community-based initiatives. Selected projects will receive funding, mentorship, and institutional support, with expected outcomes including research papers, policy recommendations, digital archives, exhibitions and submission deadline is April 15, with projects set to commence in September 2025. Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, commented: 'At Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, we believe that education and research are a powerful agent of change, capable of breaking barriers and shaping a more equitable society. This month, we honour the voices of the past, celebrate the achievements of today, and invest in the change-makers of tomorrow.'
Web Release
02-03-2025
- Business
- Web Release
Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi Hosts "Lumière of Knowledge – A gala for the future" Celebrating Knowledge, Innovation and Science-based Collaboration
Under the esteemed patronage of Her Excellency Reem Bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Chair of the Board of Trustees of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD) and UAE Minister of State for International Cooperation, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi hosted the 'Lumière of Knowledge: A Gala for the Future' in the Germaine Tillion university garden. The event reinforced Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi's commitment to participating in building a sustainable, interconnected and flourishing ecosystem in which academic excellence, groundbreaking research and community engagement foster the spirit of innovation and collaboration. The Gala welcomed over 35 strategic stakeholders from the UAE's public and private sectors, to engage in cross-sectoral discussions to advance the challenges of today and tomorrow's world in research, education and culture. In her opening remarks, Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of SUAD, emphasized the new ambitions of the university, highlighting the importance of excellence and rigor in research, and education, and strategic themes that guide the institution, as a key to success and the pioneering role the university can play in bridging the gap between academia and industries. Professor Martial-Braz stated: 'Our journey goes beyond education. In a record time, we have established a thriving ecosystem for research and development. We are proud to bring to the region Europe's first marine university, pioneering research in AI since 2019 with the first advanced AI laboratory in the UAE.' During the gala, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrated excellence by presenting several prestigious awards: the Pioneering Research Chair Award to the two industries holding the Chairs of Excellence at the Sorbonne Centre for Artificial Intelligence (SCAI), The Empowering Future Leaders Award to its historic partner Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), and the Excellence in Environmental Collaboration Award to the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD). She added: 'Our collaborations, our innovations, and our excellence are recognized globally, and we continue to strive for greater heights. The University and its key partnering institutions can make a difference in the ecosystem to build a better tomorrow.' As Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi moves forward, it remains committed to foster the next generation of thinkers and decision makers through education, research, and community partnerships, fostering an environment where knowledge thrives and inspires positive change.
