Sheikha Badr Al Qasimi Awarded First Honorary Professorship by University of Leicester

Sheikha Badr Al Qasim

 Sheikha Badr Al Qasimi Awarded First Honorary Professorship by University of Leicester

Sheikha Badr Al Qasimi has been honored with the prestigious title of Honorary Professor by the University of Leicester, marking a significant milestone in her multifaceted career. This recognition reflects her outstanding contributions to academia, women’s empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic development across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Since her appointment as President of the American University of Sharjah (AUS) in 2023, Sheikha Badr has championed female leadership by enhancing women’s representation in senior academic and administrative positions. Under her leadership, AUS established the pioneering “Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi Chair for Women’s Leadership” in collaboration with Nama’a Foundation. This is the first academic chair in the UAE exclusively dedicated to female leadership and professional development in higher education.

Sheikha Badr has also spearheaded the launch of six cutting-edge research centers in fields including artificial intelligence, sustainability, and Arabic and Islamic studies. Additionally, she expanded scholarship programs for students with disabilities and those from financially challenged backgrounds.

Beyond academia, her influence extends to entrepreneurship and innovation. As Chairperson of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), she has supported over 150 startups, helping them secure $128 million in investments and creating more than 1,400 jobs. Leading Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, she has driven strategic projects in tourism, healthcare, sustainability, and the creative economy.

Sheikha Badr also oversees a $150 million innovation initiative at Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park, attracting over 2,000 companies and investing more than $100 million in renewable energy, smart agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and immersive technologies.

Holding a Bachelor’s degree with honors from the University of Cambridge and a Master’s in Medical Anthropology from University College London, Sheikha Badr embodies a unique blend of academic excellence, cultural leadership, and community service. Her dedication continues to elevate Sharjah’s global standing and cement the American University of Sharjah’s reputation as a hub of scientific research and holistic excellence.