The Masdar Institute of Science and Technology will award more than 90 master's degrees to Emirati students today.
The institution focuses on education and research in clean energy and climate change, a part of Abu Dhabi's mandate to position itself as a knowledge hub and engine for socioeconomic growth.
Student research projects have included work on improving the efficiency of solar power, tracking sustainable development and emissions-reduction projects, and securing a sustainable water supply for the UAE.
Their work has been recognised on an international scale, with papers presented at conferences and published in the Journal of Applied Physics and in journals published by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
Aaesha Al Nuaimi, whose research focused on solar cells, said there was a need to develop additional sources of electricity to ensure the country's development.
"I have become more motivated to contribute to the field of photovoltaics and gain knowledge that will allow me to address challenges and find the best solutions in solar energy," she said.
Students also learnt that sustainability was more than a science, it was a life choice.
"Sustainable development depends on my own decisions," said Wael Al Maeeni, an engineering and systems management student.
Sultan Al Awadhi, another engineering and systems management student, agreed.
"I have changed into a sustainability ambassador within my family and friends after joining Masdar Institute," he said.
"It has taught me ways to influence my community and to spread the green knowledge.
"I am glad now my influence has reached many people trough social-networking platforms such as Twitter and Facebook."
Ms Al Nuaimi added: "Recycling and turning off lights when they are not needed, conserving water and using stairs instead of elevators are a few things I have learned from living at the Masdar Institute.
"They have now become part of my daily life."
