Sharjah University and Virinova Forge Research Collaboration: Advancing Academic Partnerships

The University of Sharjah has signed a partnership deal with GE Vernova to collaborate on training, education, and research projects. This agreement connects one of the UAE's major universities with a global energy technology company, creating new opportunities for students and researchers in critical fields like power grid technology and artificial intelligence.

Dr. Salah Taher Al-Haj, the university's vice chancellor for community affairs, signed the agreement alongside Bejah Modaresi, GE Vernova's general manager for the Middle East and North Africa region.

The partnership focuses on joint research between the university and GE Vernova's power grid automation division. Both sides will share information and educational materials to support research in several key areas: power grid technologies, electrical engineering, machine learning and artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and communications, and generative AI.

GE Vernova will also establish an industrial advisory committee to help develop professional skills among the university's students and researchers. This kind of industry-academia collaboration has become increasingly important as the UAE pushes to diversify its economy and build expertise in advanced technologies.

For students, this means access to real-world industry knowledge and potentially better job prospects in the energy sector. The partnership also positions the University of Sharjah as a research hub for power grid technologies, which are becoming more critical as countries transition to renewable energy sources and smart grid systems.

The timing makes sense for both parties. GE Vernova, which spun off from General Electric in 2024, is expanding its presence in the Middle East as the region invests heavily in energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, UAE universities are actively seeking partnerships with international companies to strengthen their research capabilities and graduate employment rates.