Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi celebrated the graduation of its 15th cohort in a ceremony held at Emirates Palace’s Auditorium in Abu Dhabi, according to a media release. The event was held under the patronage of Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, UAE’s Minister of State for International Cooperation and Chair of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s Board of Trustees.
The Class of 2024 honoured 217 master’s and bachelor’s graduates, marking a milestone of academic success and multicultural achievement. Degrees were awarded across various disciplines, including 146 bachelor’s degrees, 66 master’s degrees, and 5 diplomas from the Continuing Education Centre.
This year’s graduating class highlights Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s diversity, with 149 female (68.7%) and 68 male graduates representing 36 nationalities. Emirati graduates represent 51.6% of the Class of 2024, reflecting the university’s strong commitment to nurturing local talent. Whilst international students hailed from France, Egypt, Palestine, Senegal, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Morocco and other countries highlighting SUAD’s role as a global academic institution.
The Class of 2024 included graduates from Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s three schools: 91 graduates from the School of Law, Economics & Business, 81 graduates from the School of Arts and Humanities and 40 graduates from the School of Data, Science and Engineering. Additionally, the Continuing Education Centre (CEC) awarded diplomas in International Sports Management to five graduates. These various programmes contribute to SUAD’s multidisciplinary approach, preparing graduates to excel in various fields within the global job market.
In addition, Emirati equestrian rider, Omar Al Marzouqi, graduated this year with a double bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and Sociology. He made history as the first UAE national to win a medal at the Youth Olympic Games and the youngest Arab to qualify for the Olympics. Ranked in the global Top 20 under 25, he represented the UAE at the Paris Olympics, carrying the flag and finishing in the Top 20 in show jumping. Commenting on balancing his studies with participating in the Paris Olympics, he said: “Finding a balance between my academic and athletic commitments has not always been easy, but the support from my university has allowed me to pursue both successfully.”
In his commencement address, Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the President of the UAE, congratulated the graduates and said; “Today, you reap the reward of your hard work, patience and dedication. It is not the end, but rather the onset of a new journey that will shape your future and the future of the world you are living in. Hold onto the greatest tools: knowledge and a constant passion for learning. Always bear in mind that your education is not only for the development of your personal life but also for the service of society as a whole and our beloved country. Go forth with confidence, knowing that you possess the knowledge and positive values that will help you make a profound impact on other people’s lives. I wish you a future filled with achievements, excellence, and limitless opportunities.”
The 2024 graduation ceremony celebrated the achievements of students and faculty, highlighting Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s commitment to world-class education. The Class of 2024, reflecting the university’s global perspective, is now part of SUAD’s alumni network, ready to contribute to their fields and communities worldwide.
