Masdar Honors Sir Robert Swan and Two Masdar Institute Students for Successful Antarctica Expedition
Abu Dhabi-UAE: 22 April, 2012 – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, an independent, research-driven graduate-level university focused on advanced energy and sustainable technologies, represents what humanity is capable of achieving by being proactive sustainably, said Sir Robert Swan, the first person in history to walk both the North and South Poles.
Sir Robert Swan’s remarks came during a welcome reception at the campus where he was received by Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Chief Executive Officer of Masdar and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Board of Trustees of Masdar Institute, Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, Dr. Lamya Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, and other officials.
After the welcome remarks by Dr. Moavenzadeh, a video featuring the16-day experience of two students – Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi – was presented. Al Kaabi and Al Junaibi were part of Sir Robert Swan’s International Antarctic Expedition (IAE) 2012 team that completed the voyage on 12 March.
After acknowledging the exemplary role of Sir Robert Swan who led the expedition, Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber presented them with mementos, in honor and recognition of their feat.
The renowned environmentalist acknowledged the sustainability features that have gone into the construction of such a widely recognized academic institution distinguished for its research activities in clean energy and advanced technologies.
After his presentation on sustainability, Sir Robert Swan said: “The Masdar Institute campus stands out distinctly as an example for sustainable living. The design orientation and other architectural concepts inform us how much we can adapt our lives without harming the environment. It is essential for the global community to emulate such striking illustration of the need to remain environmentally-responsible in all walks of life. To me, Masdar Institute represents what humanity could achieve by being proactive sustainably.
“It is no wonder then that Maitha Al Kaabi and Reem Al Junaibi showed remarkable adaptation skills during their expedition to Antarctica. I congratulate Masdar Institute for nurturing the students with adequate knowledge in sustainability, renewable energy and advanced technologies.”
Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber said: “We are privileged to welcome Sir Robert Swan who has consistently shown the world the need to remain sustainably conscious. These are the same ideals that concur with Masdar’s mission to advance the development, commercialisation and deployment of renewable energy technologies and solutions.
“We also take this opportunity to commend our two students who completed this awareness raising expedition, carrying with great pride the UAE National Flag and the Masdar insignia to the southern continent. We hope the expedition enabled them to experience the real life benefits of sustainability and renewable energy, while considerably enriching their perspective and expanding their knowledge horizon. We thank the UAE’s wise leadership for their support in establishing an institution that continues to receive global acclaim.”
Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh said: “The visit of the prominent environmental campaigner endorses the status of Masdar Institute as an academic environment that attracts scientists, researchers, ecologists and conservationists who support initiatives that help tackle the impacts of global warming. Masdar Institute is honored to welcome such a renowned individual and offers support to his advocacy of the preservation of natural resources. It was also the right occasion to express our acknowledgement and appreciation of the two students whose expedition has brought international acclaim to Masdar Institute. We thank Sir Robert Swan for his inspiration that encouraged our students to take on the journey and we look forward to more such achievements from all our students.”
Sir Robert is well-known in the UAE for his passion and concern for the environment, and hosting several Emiratis on his previous expeditions to Antarctica. Through his organization 2041, Sir Robert has dedicated his life to preserving Antarctica by promoting recycling, renewable energy and sustainability to combat the effects of climate change.
Sir Robert Swan has devoted himself to work alongside industry and business in education and inspiring young people. He has removed 1,500 tons of rubbish from the Antarctica, has reached out to over 35,000 African youth and taken more than 550 young people, teachers and corporate heads on his Antarctic journeys.
Masdar Institute provides students an unparalleled opportunity in the entire spectrum of research, from theory to applied research to commercialization in a single location. With its best-in-class amenities for research and development in clean technologies, it aims to help drive economic diversification through human capital and technological innovation.
