Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, today announced that its newly-enrolled students were given an overview of the institution’s research, academic and scholarship offerings during a week-long orientation program.

As of 2 September 2014, Masdar Institute has offered admission to a total of 315 students – 164 international and 151 UAE nationals.

Hosted from 24-29 August at the Masdar Institute campus, the program included welcome remarks by Masdar Institute President Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, and an address on student life by Dean of Students Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf. The welcoming addresses provided an overview of the research-based institution and the vision of Abu Dhabi Emirates to create a knowledgebase on sustainability and clean energy. An introduction on graduate education and academic procedures by Dean of Academic Programs Dr. Youssef Shatilla were also part of the agenda.

A special panel discussion by the Alumni Office and the Alumni Council showcased the diverse career paths/options available to Masdar Institute students. The alumni panel members also shared their on-campus experience with the new students while inspiring and motivating them to fully immerse themselves in the sustainable lifestyle. Steve Meyers, a Mechanical Engineering Master’s graduate in 2011, shared his experience from Germany through WebEx web conference. Meyers was named in the esteemed Forbes ‘30 Under 30’ achievers list in the ‘clean energy’ category for his research in thermal and optical modelling of the ‘Beam Down’ solar thermal plant. Other national and international graduates from Masdar Institute’s various Master’s programs currently working in different industries also shared their challenges and success stories.

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The Orientation Week 2014 introduced our newly-enrolled students to on-campus life at Masdar Institute, where sustainability remains the focal point. With the support of the UAE leadership, the institution has become one of the leading centers for cutting-edge research, offering Master’s and doctorate programs in clean energy and advanced technology areas. We believe the new students will emulate the alumni in bringing honor to Masdar Institute and the UAE.”

Dr. Behjat Al Yousuf said: “For newly-enrolled students, the Orientation Week offered the right opportunity to interact with faculty and seniors, and learn about Masdar Institute in general. The events were designed to familiarize them with the new environment before they begin their academic pursuit in earnest. We hope, following the week-long program, the new entrants will also have an appreciation of the institution’s accommodating and welcoming cultural and ethnic diversity.”

The Orientation Week 2014 also included dedicated sessions on outreach programs such as the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) program, the Masdar Institute Ambassadors Program, Career Services & Internships, Student Government Association (SGA), an Introduction to the Library services, and Student Counselling.

Additionally an introduction on the on-campus safety and security measures was offered by David Dickinson, Manager-Environmental Health, Safety, and Security, Masdar Institute. Kalle Hashmi, Head of Capacity Building, International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), also presented the UN agency’s contributory role to developing human capital through scholarships at Masdar Institute.

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