Students from the AUS Student Leadership Program (SLP) attended the first annual Water and Energy Congress (WE WEEK) held by Alleem Knowledge Center on February 16, 2016 in Sharjah.

The event addressed the key global goals on sustainable management of water and sanitation for all and ensuring access to affordable, reliable and sustainable modern energy. The forum identified state-of-the-art water solutions and built a sustainable pathway.

"My experience at the Water and Energy Congress was enlightening. I met some well-respected researchers and listened to their ideas on how to become more sustainable," said Nada Mourad, a senior majoring in finance. "The congress motivated me to come up with different ways to use water and energy more efficiently. Also, I was very inspired by Dr. Rashid Alleem, who has contributed to our society in many great ways. During the congress he informed us about the Global Goals for Sustainable Development. He encouraged us to start working on at least five of the 17 goals in order to make a difference in this world and leave behind a legacy that we would be remembered for."

According to Rania Almadi, a freshman majoring in chemical engineering, "Attending an event like WE WEEK and hearing professionals speak of such a major issue as that of climate change inspired me to want to volunteer and work in order to make a difference. I learned that the issue of climate change is in fact a very urgent one, and it must be handled immediately. In order to be able to resolve this problem, everyone must pitch in; it requires a combined effort from humanity as a whole in order to be able to restore our planet to its former state."

"The congress focused on the importance of finding sustainable solutions to water conservation, which is a global dilemma. Students were exposed to ideas and solutions that will aid in maintaining a safe future for generations to come. We are pleased that our students found the congress beneficial, and we encourage more students to take advantage of the opportunities provided by SLP," said Dr. Moza Al Shehhi, Dean of Students.