Engaging Sharakah events at AUS inspire learning, cultural exchange and student development

February at American University of Sharjah (AUS) was filled with exploration, inspiration and connection as the AUS Office of Enrollment Management (OEM)-Sharakah Program hosted a series of vibrant events designed to support educators, spark curiosity in young minds and celebrate cultural diversity and leadership.

Through four flagship events—the Sharakah Professional Development Workshop, Sharakah Cultural Day, Physics Open Day–FZX 2025 and Sharakah Women's Day, AUS provided development opportunities to teachers and students from its Sharakah partner schools. 

February 13 | Sharakah Professional Development Workshop 2025: Supporting educators

Over 70 counselors and teachers from 24 partner schools gathered at AUS for the Sharakah Professional Development Workshop 2025, aimed at enhancing their ability to guide students in making informed academic and career choices.

The workshop featured expert-led sessions from the Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs, the Academic Support Center, the University Library and the College of Arts and Sciences. Topics covered included career and university counseling strategies, student decision-making, brain-based learning techniques and the growing impact of AI on career readiness. Educators engaged in discussions that explored innovative approaches to student support and expanded their professional networks.

February 19 | Sharakah Cultural Day 2025: A journey across cultures

The Sharakah Cultural Day 2025 was a vibrant showcase of international cultures, welcoming over 200 students from six Sharakah partner schools.

Students presented 25 country-themed displays, exploring traditional cuisine, famous landmarks, cultural attire, geography and travel recommendations. Through interactive presentations, participants developed their communication skills while building cultural awareness.The event’s awards ceremony recognized outstanding posters, presentations and booth decorations, judged by the Sharakah Team for creativity, research and presentation quality.

February 20 | Physics Open Day–FZX 2025: A celebration of science

The ninth annual Physics Open Day–FZX 2025, held in the AUS Main Building’s Rotunda, was a hub of scientific exploration, where high school students showcased their creativity and passion for physics.

A collaboration between the Office of Enrollment Management-Sharakah Program and the Department of Physics at the College of Arts and Sciences, the event welcomed more than 500 participants, including 176 student exhibitors, 36 supervisors, and representatives from 25 schools. The day featured 52 student-led projects that demonstrated creativity, scientific curiosity and real-world applications of physics. Attendees participated in hands-on experiments, explored high school student competition projects evaluated for scientific accuracy and creativity, and enjoyed a special lecture that provided deeper insights into physics. One-on-one sessions with AUS faculty offered students guidance on the physics major, research opportunities and career pathways. The event concluded with the much-anticipated liquid nitrogen-cooled ice cream demonstration, offering a fun and interactive way to explore physics in action.

February 26 | Sharakah Women's Day 2025: Honoring women’s strength and leadership

The month ended with an afternoon dedicated to celebration, empowerment and inspiration as more than 120 educators and counselors from Sharakah partner schools came together for Sharakah Women’s Day 2025.

The event featured a keynote address by Dr. Amani Al-Othman, Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering and Petrofac Research Chair for Renewable Energy at AUS, who spoke on women’s leadership and the role of education in cultivating change. The program also included engaging activities and networking sessions that enabled meaningful connections and professional growth.

A lasting impact

"The Sharakah Program is about creating meaningful engagement between AUS and our partner schools. These events provide educators with valuable tools, give students opportunities to explore their potential and strengthen connections within our academic community. Through initiatives like these, we aim to support learning in ways that extend beyond the classroom, encouraging growth, collaboration and long-term impact," said Hala Al Jundi, Sharakah Program Officer at AUS.

For further information about the AUS Sharakah Program, please visit www.aus.edu/sharakah.