
President’s Message
Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President – Masdar Institute of Science and Technology
I have been fortunate enough to have been involved with the development of Masdar since its infancy. The concept of Masdar was developed to bring about the realization of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the late President of the UAE, that Abu Dhabi be a part of the solution in terms of contributing to preserve the quality of the natural environment, which is one of the major global concerns facing us today and one of the most critical challenges of the 21st century.
I believe that this is the first time that a country outside the Western Hemisphere of Europe and North America has decisively, methodically and actively engaged in becoming a leading party to the solution. This is not only commendable, but exciting and challenging; and I personally feel privileged to lead a critical component of this undertaking - the development of the intellectual human capital needed to make the vision a reality.
If you look at the spectrum of activities that Masdar has undertaken, it is comprehensive and covers the whole value chain needed to address the challenges of our time. This includes human resource development, generation of knowledge through research and development, formation of incubation centers, start-ups, venture capital, collaboration with major industries and government, attracting The International Renewable Energy Agency headquarters to Abu Dhabi, establishment of the World Future Energy Summit meetings in Abu Dhabi and providing the distinguished Zayed Future Energy Prize for Environment. Frankly, one does not see such a comprehensive and unified undertaking anywhere else. This is exciting, important and critical to the successful implementation of the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed.
Through the Masdar Institute of Science and Technology, the faculty, students and staff contribute in a significant way to the solution of this critical and challenging global problem. It is my sincere hope that, together, all of us will be moving towards a common goal and will advance Masdar Institute to contribute to this noble cause. Much has been done and much remains to be done.


