AUS recognizes student excellence in academics and leadership with Sheikh Khalifa Scholarships

American University of Sharjah (AUS) has awarded the highly competitive Sheikh Khalifa Scholarship to four exceptional students for the Academic Year 2024–2025 in recognition of their outstanding academic and personal achievements. 

The recipients are Omar Darwish from the College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD);
Manal Nadeem from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS); Omar Al-Khazali from the College of Engineering (CEN); and Kareem Hijazi from the School of Business Administration (SBA).

"I am immensely proud of these scholars, who have not only excelled academically but also demonstrated remarkable initiative and commitment to their communities. Their achievements embody the core values of our university—intellectual curiosity, ethics and civic responsibility. This scholarship not only acknowledges their past contributions but also supports their potential to impact the future positively. As we celebrate their success, we are reminded of the importance of nurturing such talents, who will undoubtedly lead and innovate in their respective fields,” said Dr. Tod A. Laursen, Chancellor of AUS.

During his time at AUS, Darwish has excelled in the field of architecture and design. He co-founded The Student Collective, a platform that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration among CAAD students. He has interned at notable architectural firms like Menis Arquitectos and has been actively involved in research, particularly with MABNAI, a non-governmental entity focused on educating the public about positive practices in the built environment. His work has led him to engage in projects with regional impact and to co-curate exhibitions like Mapping Abu Dhabi organized by MiZa Abu Dhabi, an emerging neighborhood for entrepreneurs and creatives.

"I am honored to receive the Sheikh Khalifa Scholarship. This wouldn't have been possible without the support of my family, friends and professors. The scholarship will support my current research toward securing the necessary equipment, licenses, materials and archival documentation. My ultimate goal is to transform the research findings into a publication that benefits the UAE and contributes to understanding the region's architecture and urban evolution," he said.

International studies student Nadeem has an impressive record of achievements. She served as a Global Youth Statement Volunteer for the 18th Conference of Youth—the largest youth conference on multilateral UN climate processes—and a COP28 UAE Youth Climate Delegate. She currently serves as Chief Editor of the Wellbeing Economics Club blog and Co-Head of Research at the Higher Education Climate Dialogues. A recipient of the CAS Undergraduate Research Grant, she will be presenting her research titled "Deconstructing Dichotomies: Exploring Contemporary South Asian Emigration Beyond Economics" at Cambridge University. 

"Since I joined AUS in September 2021, the university has fostered my intellectual development and allowed me to delve into my varied interests—from climate advocacy to academic research on Gulf migrants. Looking ahead, I plan to pursue graduate studies in sociology to explore themes like migration, citizenship and belonging. Ultimately, I aspire to give back to the AUS community, extending the incredible opportunity this scholarship has provided me," she said.

Al-Khazali, who is double majoring in computer science and mathematics, has made innovative contributions to graph theory and quantum computing, receiving accolades for his work, including first place and Audience Choice at the New York University Abu Dhabi Quantum Computing Hackathon. His internships at the Center for Quantum and Topological Systems and extensive extracurricular involvement, including leadership roles in the Mathematics Club and participation in the AUS Arabic Music Ensemble, highlight his diverse talents.

"When tackling challenges, don't limit yourself to one tool. Innovate, adapt, create the very tool that will unravel the knot of your problem," he said.

Hijazi, studying finance, has shown exceptional leadership and initiative within the School of Business Administration. He serves as the business development manager for the Dean's Business Team and has organized many events that enhance SBA’s representation. Kareem graduated as valedictorian from his high school and has continued to excel academically at AUS, consistently receiving the Dean's and Chancellor's List Scholarships.

"I am truly grateful for this wonderful opportunity of being named the Sheikh Khalifa Scholarship recipient for the School of Business Administration. The scholarship is a testament to the hard work I have put in since the first day I joined AUS. I am thankful for the support from SBA's faculty and staff, which has equipped me as a student with the right skills and portfolio," he said.

The Sheikh Khalifa Scholarship is awarded through a two-stage competition that involves applications being reviewed by committees within each college/school and by a university-wide committee. For more information on the wide range of scholarships and financial grants offered at AUS, visit www.aus.edu/scholarship.