Fun, competition and solidarity: AUS' Get Active for Education supports student scholarships

Amidst a whirlwind of fun, competition and community spirit, the recent Get Active for Education event hosted by American University of Sharjah (AUS) as part of the Together in Advancement, Stronger in Solidarity campaign proved to be more than just a day of excitement.

Get Active for Education is part of a series of fundraising events AUS has held since the start of this year in support of the AUS Advancement and Solidarity Fund, which was established to support and empower bright students facing social changes within their communities, helping them receive quality education at AUS. The proceeds from this year's fund will ensure that deserving students, particularly those from Palestine facing financial difficulties amid the crises, have the opportunity to pursue their dreams of higher education at AUS.

Throughout the event, AUS corporate partners, alumni, students, faculty and staff participated in a range of exciting challenges, from a four-kilometer walkathon to tug of war competitions and football and basketball matches.

"Get Active for Education embodied our strategic commitment to advancing student opportunities and fortifying community solidarity. The participants’ enthusiastic engagement not only propelled us toward our goals, but also underscored the strategic impact of collective involvement in shaping the educational landscape for generations to come," said Reem Bardan, Executive Director of the AUS Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs

Mechanical engineering student Abdullah Abdulkader noted that the event was highly beneficial, from the sports activities conducted to the complete allocation of donations from purchases. "This event played a crucial role in raising awareness about the significance of education and the importance of donating to those in need," he said.

Alumnus and 2013 class graduate with a bachelor's degree in design management Ali Lootah, who currently serves as the President of the AUS Alumni Association, praised the "Get Active for Education" event. "This event is vital as it highlights the unity among all those connected to AUS, including students, alumni, faculty, and sponsors. It demonstrates a strong bond within our community. Moreover, promoting health and fun for a great cause is truly remarkable," he said.

Organized by the AUS Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs at AUS, the Get Active for Education event was supported by main sponsors Crescent Petroleum, Alef Group and Sharjah National Oil Corporation (SNOC), as well as community partner Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). 

“We are delighted to have partnered with the American University in Sharjah in different events, including the Annual AUS Alumni Reunion, Get Active for Education, AUS Benefit Suhoor and the AUS Giving Day event, all for a greater cause,” said Issa Ataya, Chief Executive Officer of Alef Group.

“It was truly an honor to participate in Get Active for Education and represent Crescent Petroleum in such a meaningful and impactful initiative. Our team was grateful for the opportunity to showcase our talents and compete alongside other esteemed companies for an enriching and fulfilling experience,” said members of the Crescent Group team.

To learn more about the AUS Advancement and Solidarity Scholarship Fund, visit info.aus.edu/giving.