ABU DHABI, 24th May, 2017 (WAM) -- New York University Abu Dhabi celebrated its fourth graduation ceremony today honouring the exemplary achievement, intellectual passion, and initiative of the Class of 2017. 165 students from 64 countries were conferred degrees at the ceremony that took place on the University’s campus on Saadiyat Island.

In the presence of H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras al-Khaimah, H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Council, and Sheikh Sultan bin Hamdan Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President, NYU Board Chair William R. Berkley, NYU President Andrew Hamilton, and NYU Abu Dhabi Vice Chancellor Al Bloom officiated at the Commencement, which was attended by approximately 1,300 guests.

Sheikha Lubna bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of State for Tolerance, offered remarks to the graduating class and was presented with the NYU Abu Dhabi Global Leadership Award, recognising her outstanding commitment to the University and to society.

Sheikha Lubna said, "As I look at this region, and the world today, I ask you to be courageous. To have the courage to coexist, while others seek division. To have the courage to believe in a positive future, even while others are fatalist. I ask you to be ambassadors for tolerance, wherever you are."

The Minister added, "You have more opportunity than any generation before to understand the world, to engage the world, and to change the world. Be ready to use this smartphone superpower you all have not just to be connected, but to truly connect. And never let anyone say you can't do what you set your heart on. You have received an exceptional education in global citizenship. It is now how you use it that makes a difference."