Sharjah Tatweer Forum Announces The Launch Of Life Sciences Trends And Opportunities Conference

HE Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi Biotechnology Expert Juan Enriquez And

Sharjah Tatweer Forum has announced its launch of "Life Sciences- Trends & Opportunities Conference". It will be held at the Medical Centre Hall, Sharjah University, on November 15, 2007, under the royal patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, The Ruler of Sharjah, and the Honorary Chairman of Sharjah Tatweer Forum.

The event aims to raise awareness and inspire entrepreneurship in biotechnology-related industries. The main speakers of the conference are Juan Enriquez, an authority on the economic and political impact of biotechnology, HE Sheikha Lubna Bint Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Economy, and Sheikh Tareq Bin Faisal Al Qasimi, Chairman of Emirates Investment Group.

Biotechnology has been defined as “the use of cellular and molecular processes to solve problems or make products.” Its applications have been widespread, ranging from agriculture (e.g., genetically engineered crops) to crime prevention (e.g., DNA fingerprinting). The developments in applied biotechnology are directed towards economic production of new and unconventional products for widespread use. It continues to revolutionize treatments of many diseases, and is used to provide pollution-free technologies and to deal with environmental problems. To be part of the biotech revolution that transforms business and life in general, it is imperative to create an environment that welcomes entrepreneurship with open arms.

The author of the global bestseller As the Future Catches You, Juan Enriquez is a fine speaker with a unique message that he adapts to each industry and gives strategic insights into how to turn the biotechnology revolution to its advantage. He is chairman and CEO of Biotechonomy, a company that researches and funds startups that are working to develop the promise of the genomic revolution. “The dynamic and rapidly growing biotechnology industry demands the attention of top decision-makers in governments, corporate, and social organizations, many of whom now should be brought up-to-date with extensive knowledge of contemporary science issues,” says Mr. Enriquez.

An icon of the emerging Arab woman, Sheikha Lubna has academic credentials both in science and management. “Regionally, the biotech industry is growing by leaps and bounds, and our economy can’t afford to be aloof to such an all encompassing change. We have the resources to build vibrant biotechnology parks. But competing with more advanced global biotech centers and building a thriving research culture is the real challenge. With a progressive and time-bound strategy, I am sure, we will achieve that goal as well,” Sheikha Lubna expresses her vision of the biotech revolution.

Sheikh Tariq Bin Faisal Al Qasimi, chairman of Emirates Investment Group is optimistic about embracing biotechnology industries in the emirates. “Biotechnology is perceived as an extremely promising business. However, so far the sector is barely popular among GCC nations unlike Information Technology. By leveraging our potential for investment and proximity to huge regional markets, major global players could find this country the ideal base for R&D as well as manufacturing,” Sheikh Tareq points out.

Hussain Al Mahmoudi, chairman of Sharjah Tatweer Forum, says, “The event will definitely impart a vision of developments and opportunities in the biotechnology industry and will enable the participants to knowledgeably view the scientific issues in these industries and interact confidently with new technologies. Tatweer Forum is all geared up to play a critical role in enlightening the business fraternity of the great prospects that lie ahead in biotechnology industries.”

Tatweer Forum is Sharjah’s initiative to respond to the challenges of emerging global business trends. Established by a Royal Decree of His Royal Highness The Ruler of Sharjah, the forum has been conceived as “a non-profit professional organization deploying dynamic business leadership and optimal resources to meet the challenges of the Emirate and the nation in transition.” During the past year, Tatweer Forum has conducted a number of workshops, seminars and events aimed to encourage leadership and competitive entrepreneurship in the emirate.
 

View News Headlines