Professor Dr Hassan Shaker Majdi, President of Al-Mustaqbal University, conducted an extensive field tour of the Bristol Robotics Laboratory (BRL) at the University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) to explore the latest scientific research and advanced technologies in artificial intelligence, robotics, and intelligent systems, as well as research projects undertaken by postgraduate students and researchers in collaboration with leading global companies and institutions.
The tour covered a number of specialized laboratories and research projects, including:
1. Healthcare Robotics and Smart Living
Professor Dr Majdi visited the Personalised Assisted Living Studio, where he explored advanced applications of assistive robotics, home-based care, and smart services, particularly those designed to support the healthcare sector, assist older adults, and enhance quality of life.
2. Autonomous Driving Systems and Intelligent Vehicles
The tour included an overview of research projects focused on developing autonomous vehicle technologies and intelligent autonomous systems, including projects such as VENTURER, implemented in collaboration with industrial partners.
3. Advanced Manufacturing and Robotic Arms
Professor Dr Majdi also reviewed cutting-edge research in smart manufacturing and hybrid additive manufacturing, including the use of advanced industrial robotic arms, such as KUKA robots, in manufacturing automation and industrial applications.
4. Human-Robot Interaction, Artificial Intelligence, and Advanced Robotics
The tour also featured research projects involving quadruped robots and interactive humanoid robots, with a focus on integrating artificial intelligence into sensing, movement, and interaction with the surrounding environment. The projects also highlighted applied research undertaken by postgraduate students and researchers.
During the tour, Professor Dr Hassan Shaker Majdi emphasized the importance of engaging with leading international research centres and laboratories and benefiting from their expertise and experience in knowledge transfer and the localisation of advanced technologies. Such engagement, he noted, contributes to strengthening research and scientific capabilities and fostering innovation at Al-Mustaqbal University.
He also highlighted the importance of providing postgraduate students and researchers with an advanced research environment that enables them to explore the latest global developments in artificial intelligence, robotics, and emerging technologies, while strengthening their capacity to develop applied research projects that respond to future needs and labour-market requirements.
The visit forms part of Al-Mustaqbal University’s efforts to strengthen international engagement and cooperation with leading research institutions and centres, advance its educational and research ecosystem, and promote the use of advanced technologies and artificial intelligence in education, scientific research, and sustainable development.
SDG 4 – Quality Education: Advancing the educational and research environment and providing opportunities for experiential learning and exposure to emerging technologies.
SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: Supporting scientific research, innovation, advanced technologies, and intelligent systems.
SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth: Developing technical and research skills that enhance students’ and graduates’ readiness for future labour-market requirements.
SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals: Strengthening international cooperation and knowledge exchange with leading global research institutions and centres.