The American University of Ras Al Khaimah (Aurak), has signed a memorandum of understanding with Oairo Alliance, a British company specialising in smart technology and sustainability.

The agreement advocates for mutual cooperation in the sharing of expertise, research, and human capacity-building in the form of training and development.

This directly ties-in with the School of Engineering’s Al Bayt Al Kamel or Zero-energy House project, in which it will construct an entirely self-sustainable home as part of the Solar Decathlon Middle East 2018 competition.

As per the terms of the agreement, the Zero-energy House is just one of the areas in which Oairo will be actively involved, giving the university access to its software, sensors, and experienced programming staff.

Oairo will also train Aurak’s staff and students in preparation for the competition.

Prof Hassan Hamdan Al Alkim, Aurak president, signed the agreement alongside Bryan Saxby, CEO of Oairo Alliance, while Prof Mousa Mohsen, dean of the School of Engineering and director of RAK Research and Innovation Center, was also in attendance.

Aurak and Oairo have also agreed to collaborate in organising academic conferences, research in fields such as energy storage and generation, and the holistic approach to the construction of smart homes. Aurak students will also have internship opportunities at the organisation.

Aurak has been selected to take part in the prestigious Solar Decathlon Middle East 2018 competition, organised by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority, in conjunction with the US Department of Energy. – TradeArabia News Service