Guest Speakers Enrich Sustainable Architecture Course with Industry Expertise

Students in the Sustainable Architecture course at Ajman University benefited from two distinguished guest lectures featuring leading industry experts in sustainability and HVAC-R technologies.

Ms. Rola Nasreddine: Sustainability and Climate Change

Ms. Rola Nasreddine, Executive Director at Springs Global Consultancy, delivered a lecture titled "Sustainability and Climate Change." She brings over 20 years of experience in sustainability, climate change, and strategic policy development, working with governments, international organizations, and major companies across the GCC and MENA region.

Ms. Nasreddine has held key roles with Bureau Veritas, OAPEC, and GE Energy, and has contributed to several major climate initiatives, including COP18. Her lecture provided students with valuable insights into the intersection of policy, sustainability, and climate action from a practitioner's perspective.

Mr. Nabil Shahin: Cooling for a Sustainable Future

Mr. Nabil Shahin, Managing Director of AHRI MENA, presented a lecture titled "Cooling for a Sustainable Future: Connecting Global Treaties with Smarter, Efficient Buildings." With more than 25 years of experience in the HVAC-R industry, Mr. Nabil has held multiple technical and commercial leadership roles across major global HVAC companies.

His expertise covers product research and development, design, testing, manufacturing, and strategic marketing. He is highly knowledgeable in international HVAC technologies, energy efficiency, and global standards, working closely with regulatory bodies and government agencies across the US, Europe, and the MENA region. Mr. Nabil holds a Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Tennessee State University in the United States.

Dr. Ahmed Sukkar: Cultural Sustainability and Adaptive Reuse

Dr. Ahmed Sukkar, Assistant Professor at Sharjah University and a distinguished scholar in the fields of Islamic art, architecture, and urbanism, delivered a lecture titled "Cultural Sustainability and Adaptive Reuse," highlighting how architecture can preserve identity while meeting modern needs.

His research spans the history, theory, and criticism of both traditional and modern Islamic built environments, with a strong focus on architectural humanities, spirituality, philosophy, and cultural cosmology. Dr. Sukkar's work also engages deeply with critical issues such as contested cultural heritage, urban displacement, spatial justice, design ethics, and resilient urban development. In addition, he explores contemporary practices including parametric design and the emerging role of artificial intelligence in shaping future cities.

Bridging Academia and Industry

The guest lectures reflect Ajman University's commitment to connecting students with industry leaders and real-world expertise. By engaging with professionals at the forefront of sustainability and building technologies, students gained practical perspectives that complement their academic studies and prepare them for careers in sustainable architecture and engineering.