Alfaisal University celebrates the successful participation of two students, Mohamed Umair Aleem, a medical student from the College of Medicine, and Omar Bin Suwedan, a fourth-year Software Engineering student from the College of Engineering and Advanced Computing, in the 2026 United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR) – Ureka International Project Program.
Their participation in the July 2026 cohort builds on Alfaisal University’s growing engagement with the program and provides students with opportunities to develop professional and interdisciplinary capabilities through international learning and collaboration.
The UNITAR–Ureka International Project Program convenes students and young professionals from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds to explore global challenges and develop skills in diplomacy, policy, innovation, leadership, and global development. The program combines virtual learning, collaborative activities, expert-led sessions, and an immersive experience in Geneva, including visits to international organizations and institutions.
For Mohamed Umair Aleem, the experience offered an opportunity to explore the intersection of healthcare, international collaboration, policy, and leadership beyond the clinical environment. As a medical student involved with the Medical Students’ Association, the Surgery Interest Group, and the Office of International Clinical Affairs at Alfaisal University, Umair found particular value in understanding how international partnerships are developed and sustained.
During the program, Umair visited several leading international institutions, including the United Nations Office at the Palais des Nations, the International Labour Organization, the International Committee of the Red Cross, CERN, and the World Health Organization. These visits provided insight into how international organizations approach complex global challenges.
A negotiation skills workshop was another highlight. Through an interactive strategic exercise, participants explored the importance of communication, trust, cooperation, and understanding different stakeholder interests.
For Omar Bin Suwedan, the program broadened his perspective beyond software engineering while strengthening skills in communication, leadership, teamwork, project management, and presenting ideas effectively.
A highlight was the visit to CERN, where he saw a particle accelerator and learned more about the science and technology behind one of the world’s leading scientific research institutions. As an engineering student, the visit offered a valuable perspective on how large-scale scientific research brings together technology, engineering, and scientific expertise.
Omar also valued working alongside participants from different countries and academic backgrounds. Participating alongside his close friend and fellow Alfaisal student, Umair Aleem, highlighted the value of interdisciplinary exchange, with their backgrounds in healthcare and engineering bringing different perspectives to shared discussions.
Their participation demonstrates the opportunities created through Dimensions Startup Studios, Alfaisal University’s hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and design thinking. Through initiatives that extend learning beyond the classroom, Dimensions supports students in developing their capabilities and engaging with international communities.
Following Deema Wael AlKattan’s successful participation in the April 2026 cohort, the July cohort marks another step in Alfaisal University’s engagement with the UNITAR–Ureka International Project Program.
