Ajman: Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ajman, Ajman University (AU) recently hosted the second edition of the "Family and Society" conference. This landmark event highlighted the University's significant role in fostering scholarly discussions on sustainability, family resilience, and societal progress.
According to Emirates News Agency, the conference was attended by prominent figures, including Sheikh Salem bin Sultan Al Qassimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in Ras Al-Khaimah, and various Cabinet Members, deans, leading academics, and esteemed guests. It was organized by the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Centre and the College of Humanities and Sciences at Ajman University, in collaboration with the Emirates Association for Social Development in Ras Al Khaimah, Paris Cit© University, and the Tarahum Charity Foundation. The event's theme, 'Families Shaping a Sustainable Future,' underscored Ajman University's dedication to promoting knowledge that propels societal change.
The conference featured a distinguished lineup of keynote speakers, further establishing the University's status as a center for intellectual leadership and international cooperation. Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Dr. Ouidad Bouchamaoui, Professor of Diplomatic Sciences at NYU Abu Dhabi, delivered a noteworthy speech on the role of the family unit in reimagining sustainability. Professor Dennis Beach from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, provided valuable insights into educational research and community empowerment. Meanwhile, Professor Peta White from Deakin University, Australia, and Editor-in-Chief of the Conference Special Issue, addressed climate change education and the need to foster intergenerational solidarity.
Additionally, Professor Hilary Bradbury, a renowned expert on action research for sustainability, delivered a compelling keynote address, urging institutions and individuals to act as catalysts for sustainable change.
Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, remarked on the importance of the conference, stating, "We are proud to host the second edition of the Family and Society Conference, providing a vital platform for dialogue and collaboration around preserving family values in an evolving world. This conference reaffirms our mission as a non-profit institution to champion interdisciplinary research that addresses pressing societal challenges and drives lasting impact. In an age of rapid digital transformation, it is crucial to bring together thought leaders from across disciplines and regions to advance collective understanding and solutions. Through this initiative, we strengthen our commitment to academic excellence, social responsibility, and the advancement of family studies as a cornerstone of sustainable development."
Over two engaging days, the conference presented a rich program of parallel sessions and poster presentations, showcasing innovative research from Ajman University scholars and international contributors. Topics covered included digital transformation, family resilience, cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and the socio-economic empowerment of families.
The Family and Society Conference exemplifies Ajman University's relentless pursuit of academic excellence, impactful research, and societal leadership.