AUS and Sharjah Civil Defence launch Fire Safety Engineering Training Certificate Program

American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Sharjah Civil Defence launched a joint Fire Safety Engineering Training Certificate Program recently.

The introduction of one of the top fire safety training programs in the Middle East follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last year between AUS and Sharjah Civil Defence to collaborate closely on training, executive education and internship programs. The MoU comes as part of efforts by the university’s College of Engineering (CEN) to offer its professional expertise to  enhance community engagement. 

An introductory meeting was held recently between senior officials at CEN and the Sharjah Civil Defence to kick off the three-year program, which trains professional engineers, engineering consultants and experts working in the field of safety and fire engineering. It is open for professional organizations and companies wishing to achieve this certification.

“This is one of the top training programs in the region that prepares engineering professionals in fire safety engineering. The College of Engineering at AUS is proud to have partnered with Sharjah Civil Defence to offer this certificate program. The Sharjah Civil Defence and AUS aim to work efficiently and effectively to improve the quality of life in Sharjah’s community by offering services that come with the highest standards to protect lives and property from fire hazards,” said Dr. Rami Hawileh, Professor in Civil Engineering, Coordinator of CEN Executive Education, and program director and training focal point.

The program begins with a  placement exam, followed by online modules offered by CEN faculty members on fundamentals of fire protection, fire detection and protection systems, performance and behavior structure and occupancy in fire, and chemical process safety. Upon the completion of the training program, participants will receive a certificate in fire safety engineering.

Speaking about the agreement and training, Colonel Sami Khamis Al-Naqbi, Director General of Civil Defense in Sharjah, said this "comes in fulfillment of the principles of the Year of the 50th by investing in human capital by developing education, nurturing specialized professionals and enhancing skills. This program is the first to be offered in the country, similar to what other world universities offer, to achieve and maintain preventive safety.”

CEN boasts a strong Engineering Outreach Program that taps into the expertise of AUS faculty members and provides services to partners in industry, government and other institutions. For more information, visit www.aus.edu/cen/outreach.