UOS, Skoltech launch Global Center for Future Technologies

January 20, 2026 / 11:23 AM

Sharjah24: The University of Sharjah (UOS) has signed a landmark agreement with Russia’s Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech) to establish the Global Center for Future Technologies (GCFT), which will be based at the University of Sharjah campus.

The agreement was signed by His Excellency Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah, and His Excellency Prof. Alexander Kuleshov, President of Skoltech, marking a major step towards strengthening international collaboration in scientific research, innovation and education.

Focus on critical future domains

The GCFT is envisioned as a dynamic international platform that brings together institutions dedicated to advancing science and cutting-edge technologies. The centre will focus on five priority domains, including artificial intelligence, biomedical and healthcare advances, renewable energy and energy storage, and food and water security, with additional fields to be incorporated in future phases.

Four strategic pillars

The centre’s work will be structured around four core pillars: scientific research, education and professional training, innovation, and global outreach. Activities will include collaborative research projects, policy consultations, youth fellowship programmes, seasonal research camps, industry-focused upskilling, start-up incubation, technology transfer, and the organisation of international conferences and forums.

Supporting a sustainable knowledge economy

Prof. Agamy said the partnership elevates Sharjah’s position as a regional and global hub for research and innovation, noting that the centre’s focus aligns with the UAE’s strategic vision for a sustainable, knowledge-based economy. He added that GCFT will provide global opportunities for students and researchers to engage in advanced research, fellowships and innovation initiatives, fostering creativity and impactful solutions to future global challenges.