Under the patronage and presence of Lt. General His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, Zayed University (“ZU”) celebrated the graduation of the “Future Makers” Class of 2024. His Highness attended the final day of the ceremony and witnessed the graduation of 368 students from 7 colleges, including those who earned honors and distinction in their bachelor’s and postgraduate studies.
In total 2,086 students graduated as part of the Class of 2024 across the 3-day event, which included the 22nd cohort of female students and the 12th cohort of male students. This year’s ceremony was held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) from June 4th until June 6th. It was attended on all three days by Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei, Minister of Community Development and Chairperson of Zayed University Board of Trustees, alongside guests of honor, members of the university’s Board of Trustees, faculty and administrative staff, prominent figures, and the families of the graduates.
His Highness congratulated the graduates on their efforts and their success at this prestigious national academic institution, wishing them a prosperous future. He urged them to utilize the skills and knowledge they acquired in service to the leadership, the nation, and the community, contributing to shaping a bright future for the UAE.
At the end of the ceremony, His Highness received a gift – a sculpture made by Zayed University graduate Narjes Noor for the graduation of the Class of 2024. The artwork echoes verses from the poetry of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the UAE: “O youth of Ghatareef, embrace this joyful time. Rise with wisdom and sound judgment, carrying culture, knowledge, and perfection with you.”
During her remarks, Her Excellency Shamma bint Suhail Al Mazrouei expressed her gratitude to His Highness Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan for attending the graduation ceremony, noting that his presence represents the wisdom of the leadership and its support, care, and pride for the graduates of Zayed University.
Her Excellency congratulated the graduates and their families on their well-deserved success, describing the graduation ceremony as the beginning of a new journey, which they have been fully prepared for by Zayed University, not only on an academic level but also with instilled values of perseverance and determination to succeed. She urged the graduates to embark on this journey with a passion for learning and experimentation, viewing every challenge as an opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and building a meaningful life that positively impacts others, extending the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, and contributes to the nation’s growth and prosperity.
Addressing the graduates, she added, “A person’s values are what truly represent them, beyond any external appearances or titles. This is evident in our leaders, who exemplify the highest moral standards, their extreme sense of integrity, dedication to serving the nation, pride in our Emirati traditions, mutual support, and their mentality of abundance.” She concluded by saying, “Hold on to your authenticity, be yourselves, and become the best version of yourself. Seize these moments in your lives to leave a lasting impact that lives up to the UAE standards and mirrors its love to all of you. The future of the UAE lies in your hands.”
His Excellency Dr. Sultan Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs, who delivered last year’s graduation speech from the International Space Station, addressed this year’s graduating cohort via a virtual message. He expressed his warm wishes to the graduates and emphasized their important roles in shaping the UAE’s future. He said: “Congratulation to the Class of 2024 on your graduation! You’re the future makers and the key influencer in the future job market. I extend my congratulations to the academic and administrative staff, as well as the graduates’ families, who have worked hard over the years to help shape your future. This is not the end, and you have a lot of work to accomplish in your future. I remember sending my message to you from space last year. Today, we stand alongside you to continue the UAE’s mission. Congratulations once again, and we wish you all the success always and forever.”
During her graduation speech, Sheikha Almansoori, the first student of determination with total visual impairment to graduate from the College of Education at Zayed University, expressed her pride in joining the 2024 cohort. She said: “On behalf of myself and my fellow graduates, I would like to express my deep gratitude and pride for the university’s leadership and our professors who have been a source of support and encouragement throughout our academic journey. With them, we persevered, excelled, and raised our spirits, carrying the passion for learning and the light of knowledge to persist on the paths of success.”
She added: “I was told that Zayed University shines today in its finest form. Who said ‘I don’t see it’? But I see its beauty with a different vision, and I feel the joy of this day in every corner and detail. Zayed University has been and will remain a beacon that gives light to the future generations.”
Rawda bint Tamim, speaking on behalf of the graduate students, said: “We take pride in graduating from this university that bears the name of our founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan – may his soul rest in peace – who said: ‘The true wealth and real asset of the nation lie in the youth equipped with knowledge and science, which are the means through which this nation is built.'”
She noted that today, the graduates learned how their rich history – from which they draw their pride and heritage – reflects on their present. They learned to understand what is happening in their region and the UAE’s role in global affairs. Today, they face a future filled with opportunities and challenges. They are driven to embrace a new life, enter the labor market, and apply what they have learned in their academic journey. They are holding their heads high and carrying the vision of the UAE, a nation that has led the most important international forums with its wise leadership and enlightened vision. They are deeply grateful to their country for what they have achieved today. The UAE has sought to develop youth in all fields, which is affirmed by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who said: “The knowledge you arm yourselves with must be a real weapon so that we can compete with the countries of the world.”
She expressed her gratitude and appreciation to the faculty members for their continuous support, to the students’ parents for their patience and perseverance, and to everyone who contributed to their academic journey, enabling them to complete their graduation from this great institution.
The graduation ceremony highlighted Zayed University’s dedication to fostering and empowering talent to lead their communities, embracing diversity, and creating a dynamic intellectual environment, which align seamlessly with the national goals of UAE Centennial 2071. The university takes great pride in its graduates, who leave Zayed University equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and help deliver the UAE’s mission.
Zayed University congratulates the Class of 2024, wishing them every success. The University is committed to offering a world-class education, encouraging innovation, and developing the leaders of tomorrow.
