As announced
recently, the UAE launched the UAE Platform for Scientific Laboratories to drive
the investment in scientific research and development (R&D). The move aims
to allow researchers and scientists access the most advanced laboratory
equipment, and create an environment for scientists to exchange knowledge,
expertise and scientific results.
The
platform, which represents a gathering of major research institutions in the
country, aims to provide an advanced research environment and outstanding infrastructure
to improve scientific sectors in the country by reducing the cost of research
activities by 30%.
In
line with UAE Vision 2021 and Centennial 2071, the UAE Platform for Scientific Laboratories is an
initiative of the Emirates Scientists
Council (ESC), an organisation that is tasked to create a supportive
environment for research and scientists as part of the UAE Advanced Science
Agenda 2031, which was launched in early April 2018.
“The UAE is offering a leading global model
for the perfect investment in human potential and providing a scientific
environment and research infrastructure that allows great minds to innovate
pre-emptive solutions to major challenges facing humanity, constituting a
knowledgeable addition to the region and greater world,” said Vice President
and Prime Minister of the UAE Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
The
initiative also aims to establish an integrated working system that is based on
a solid foundation of activities by scientific research institutions through
effective partnerships with leading international research centres.
The Platform
will attract and encourage highly qualified scientists and motivate
individuals, including students and all those interested in science to
participate in the development of scientific research methods and empower
researchers to find cooperation opportunities in the field.
It
will also link state laboratories to scientists and experts to ensure the
production of knowledge in the country’s investment in specialised laboratories
to raise the productivity of research institutions. The platform will work to
increase the proportion of operating scientific devices and unifying research
capacity in the UAE.
Six
major research institutions in the UAE featured including the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre, Khalifa University, UAE University, American University of Sharjah (AUS), the Abu Dhabi Department of Energy, and the International Centre for Biosaline
Agriculture (ICBA).
The
platform offers an opportunity for the scientific community in the UAE to have
direct and quick access to more than 150 research devices throughout the
country. It gives scientists access to world-class research equipment, with the
aim of enhancing local research effort, supporting researchers and academics,
and encouraging scientific research and development of scientific and
technological capacity in the UAE.
“We urge our scientists to continue research and
advancement so as to consolidate our achievements and restore the region’s role
as an essential partner in knowledge production, raise the intellectual level
and pursue scientific efforts to raise the UAE’s scientific stature on the
global stage,” said the Vice President and Prime Minister.