Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has graduated the Class of 2022 at its 12th convocation staged at the iconic Dubai Opera. Held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan, Cabinet Member and UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the ceremony celebrated the talent and achievements of the next generation of CUD alumni, under the banner ‘The Future Pioneers Leading the Way’.

Representing the University’s four faculties: Management; Architecture and Interior Design; Communication, Arts and Sciences; and Engineering, Applied Science and Technology, this year over 300 graduates took to the stage to receive their degree certificates from Sheikh Nahayan bin Mabarak Al Nahayan.

In his graduation address, Sheikh Nahayan paid tribute to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan,  President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. He emphasized that the Canadian University Dubai graduation ceremony serves as a unifying link that brings everyone together annually, celebrating the university’s noteworthy contributions to education, scientific research, and service to the environment and society.

Sheikh Nahayan went on to highlight the university’s commitment to prioritizing its students in all its activities and events, facilitating their growth and development so that they can effectively serve their families, communities, country, and the world. Additionally, Sheikh Nahayan thanked the members of the university family for their dedication and efforts, which have helped establish the institution as a model for successful performance and continuous achievements in serving the students and the wider community.

Presiding over the ceremony were the University Chancellor and Chair of the University Board of Trustees, Buti Saeed Al Ghandi; President and Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Karim Chelli; and members of the Canadian University Dubai Board of Trustees.

Admitting the graduates to the Class of 2022, Prof. Chelli said, “Canadian University Dubai has come a long way since its first graduation in 2011, contributing to the vision of the UAE Centennial 2071 set out by the country’s visionary leaders. I encourage all of you graduating today to go forward and use your education to build networks and collaborations that will bring a positive impact on the world. You are the pioneers that will be safeguarding a future built upon peace, coexistence, and co-prosperity for all.”

Delivering the speech on behalf of the graduating students, Bachelor of Business Administration in International Business graduate, Rowdah Buti Saeed Al Ghandi, said “As the university’s first graduating class following the United Arab Emirates Golden Jubilee, we are inspired to reimagine the upcoming fifty years. As the world advances at an accelerating pace, we merge our enlightened minds, together with innovative technology, to shape our society positively. It is now our time to transform from dreamers to doers! Let us step into the world to become future pioneers, leading the way!”