Abu dhabi: Khalifa University of Science and Technology and The Global Institute for Disease Elimination (GLIDE) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to work together on initiatives aimed at enhancing public health systems and driving global efforts to eliminate infectious diseases. This collaboration was formalized during the Khalifa University Public Health Symposium 2025, with the MoU being signed by Professor Bayan Sharif, Provost of Khalifa University, and Dr. Farida Al Hosani, Deputy CEO of GLIDE, at the university’s main campus.
According to Emirates News Agency, the partnership will focus on key areas such as knowledge exchange through GLIDE’s Disease Elimination and Eradication Course (DEEC) and the Injaz Fellowship Programme. The collaboration also includes plans for guest lectures and other joint initiatives. Professor Sharif emphasized the significance of this partnership in advancing education and research to support a robust healthcare ecosystem. He highlighted that Khalifa University’s specializations in biomedical sciences, genomics, and AI-driven healthcare align well with GLIDE’s efforts in combating infectious diseases globally.
Simon Bland, CEO of GLIDE, expressed that the collaboration is a crucial step in building expertise to eliminate infectious diseases and strengthen public health capacity both in the UAE and internationally. Dr. Al Hosani underscored the importance of collaboration in eradicating infectious diseases and noted that the MoU represents an investment in research and education while empowering future public health leaders. She also mentioned that this partnership aligns with the UAE’s goal of becoming a global hub for innovation and health.
Dr. Habiba Alsafar, Dean of College of Medicine and Health Sciences, stated that the collaboration would provide opportunities for faculty, students, and researchers to engage in programs directly addressing diseases. This initiative aims to develop the skills and solutions needed to address future health challenges.