The chapter also aims to connect the wider AUS community, regardless of nationality, with Syria and create opportunities for collaboration, partnerships and contributions to the country's future.
The fund has received founding contributions from companies including Challah Enterprises and BeeOrder, with further contributions being coordinated with other organizations. A dedicated university team will manage contributions and scholarship disbursements, while the chapter will focus on mobilizing support, growing the fund and expanding its impact.
Amer Al Zaim, Board Member of Marwan Group, the event's sponsor, said Syria has long played a pivotal role in the history of civilization. He said the country needs a fundamental transformation to keep pace with rapid advances in technology, artificial intelligence and automation, developments that continue to challenge even leading nations and major corporations.
"We want an economy that goes beyond consumption to create, beyond importing to export, and beyond a limited presence in global markets to compete with strength and excellence. In this way, we can restore Syria to its rightful place on the global map. This is precisely why this chapter is so important," he said.
He added: "The alumni network can make a difference through professional mentoring, partnerships and new ventures, drawing on connections among alumni in Syria, the UAE and around the world."
The AUS Office of Advancement and Alumni Affairs helps the university's alumni stay connected and turn their shared experience into opportunities to learn from one another, grow professionally and contribute to the wider alumni community. Alumni can find out more about alumni association chapters, events, mentoring and professional development opportunities at