Projects done by third and fifth year architecture students at American University of Sharjah (AUS) are part of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) President's Medals Exhibition 2017 currently on show at the AUS College of Architecture, Art and Design (CAAD). The international exhibition showcases a selection of entries in the form of large individual two-dimensional panels especially designed for the display. The Royal Institute of British Architects awards the RIBA President's Medals annually as a way to celebrate and promote excellence in the study of architecture, reward talent and encourage architectural debate worldwide.

"I am delighted that CAAD is hosting this exhibition in collaboration with RIBA's Gulf chapter," said Dr. Varkki Palathucheril, Dean of CAAD, at the opening of the exhibition. "The exhibition shows some of the best student work from parts of the world where RIBA has a presence. We value our relationship with the Gulf chapter, which dates back to its formation, as it keeps us connected with the profession," added Dr. Palathucheril.

"The RIBA President's Medals Student Awards is the largest and most prestigious awards in architectural education," said George Katodrytis, Associate Professor of Architecture and Head of the CAAD Events, Exhibitions and Lecture Committee, as well as a member of RIBA Gulf. "Three hundred and fifty institutions were invited to participate this year including AUS. This is an exhibition of winning and selected projects, including work by third and fifth year architecture students at AUS, and provides an opportunity to showcase the current status of student work globally."

First awarded in 1836 as the RIBA Silver Medal for an architectural essay, the President's Medals are the RIBA's oldest awards and are regarded as the most prestigious prize in architectural education worldwide.

Over the last few years the President's Medals exhibitions have toured to venues throughout the UK and also travelled internationally. This exhibition hosted by AUS, is in collaboration with RIBA and RIBA Gulf, as part of its Gulf-wide tour.

Also present at the exhibition were Sumaya Dabbagh, Principal, Dabbagh Architects and Chair of RIBA Gulf; as well as CAAD students and faculty and several board members of RIBA Gulf.