ABU DHABI, 7th November, 2023 (WAM) -- Mariët Westermann, Vice Chancellor and Chief Executive of New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), affirmed that the Universities Climate Network, led by NYU Abu Dhabi, serves as a supportive platform for achieving COP28 goals. It also provides young people a platform to play a pivotal role in supporting the UAE's efforts to make a significant leap in global climate action.
In a statement to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), she said, "We at New York University Abu Dhabi take pride in leading the Universities Climate Network, a coalition of universities and other higher education institutions in the UAE, to support the country's objectives at the 28th Conference of Parties."
She added, "The network currently comprises about 32 higher education institutions, providing an ideal opportunity for everyone to showcase their research capabilities in the field of climate and involve students who are deeply committed to mitigating the impacts of climate change and finding solutions to this global challenge."
Westermann emphasised that university students represent the next generation responsible for leading the way in this domain. "We need to support and collaborate with them within the framework of COP28 goals."
She reiterated that the UAE Presidency of COP28 stresses the pivotal role of youth in this prominent global event hosted by the country. She reaffirmed the vital role of the Universities Climate Network in providing students the opportunity to present their innovative initiatives, creative ideas, and research initiatives on climate-related issues.
Regarding the university's initiatives in supporting the UAE's hosting of COP28, Westermann stated that in partnership with the Arab Youth Centre in Abu Dhabi, the American University of Sharjah (AUS), and the university's "Green House" research centre, they will host the upcoming 18th UN Conference of Youth (COY18) preceding COP28. This event serves as a platform for climate activism, capacity-building, and policy development to prepare young individuals for engagement in international climate discussions and events.
She highlighted the significance of this youth-driven event in emphasising their central role in global climate action and the importance of their insights and ideas in supporting international climate policies.
Furthermore, she mentioned that the university will also host the Student Energy Summit from 29th November to 1st December on the sidelines of COP28, bringing together around 700 youth from 120 countries to focus on innovative solutions supporting energy transition efforts.
Discussing the university's research efforts, she mentioned that New York University Abu Dhabi currently houses around 80 research centres supporting global efforts to find solutions for critical global issues, including climate change, clean energy, and sustainability, among others.
Westermann noted that the university hosts students from 124 countries, with Emirati students representing 24 percent of the university population. There is a keen focus on engaging the university student community in all initiatives and research efforts carried out by the university, supporting global visions and aspirations in climate action.
She expressed her best wishes for the UAE's success in hosting COP28, highlighting the country's ambitious vision for global climate action and dedication to achieving sustainable development within communities. Higher education institutions are keen to support and strengthen these initiatives, aiming to enhance and align their efforts with these admirable aspirations.