Ajman University Honors Winners of Applied Research Papers Award in Collaboration with Department of Finance - Ajman

Ajman University (AU) and the Department of Finance - Government of Ajman honored the winners of the Applied Research Papers Award – Spring 2026, recognizing outstanding research addressing a range of contemporary financial and economic issues. The award also seeks to strengthen the integration of academic knowledge and government expertise, helping transform research outcomes into insights and solutions with the potential for further development and practical application.

The Spring 2026 edition of the award attracted 14 research papers, reflecting students’ interest in issues related to the future of the economy, financial management, and sustainability.

The three winning papers addressed topics related to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices; financial technology and renewable energy financing; and artificial intelligence and audit quality.

The award is part of the partnership between Ajman University and the Department of Finance - Ajman, aimed at strengthening collaboration between academic institutions and government entities and providing students and researchers with opportunities to examine real-world challenges from a scientific perspective. It also encourages them to develop insights grounded in research, analysis, and evidence, contributing to the development of institutional policies and practices and enhancing the quality of decision-making.

His Excellency Marwan Ahmed Al Ali, Director General of the Department of Finance - Ajman, emphasized the Department’s belief that investing in knowledge is an investment in the ability to shape the future. He noted that applied research serves as an important bridge between academic thought and the needs of government institutions. He explained that the award was established to provide students with an opportunity to analyze real-world issues and propose insights that can contribute to the development of government financial policies and practices while supporting innovation and informed decision-making.

He added that the initiative reflects the Department’s commitment to fostering innovation, supporting a knowledge-based economy, enhancing the efficiency of financial decision-making, and advancing sustainable economic development. He also highlighted the importance of the partnership with Ajman University in bringing together academic and government expertise and reinforcing the role of scientific research in anticipating the future and creating a sustainable impact for the emirate and its community.

For his part, Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, emphasized that the partnership with the Department of Finance - Ajman demonstrates the importance of aligning education and scientific research with the needs of society and government institutions, providing students with opportunities to examine real-world issues and develop insights based on research, analysis, and evidence.

First place was awarded to the research paper titled “The Financial and Policy Impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Practices on Companies in the United Arab Emirates.” The study examined the relationship between ESG practices and financial performance, with governance emerging as the most influential factor in the research findings.

Second place went to the research paper “The Role of Financial Technology and Policy Initiatives in Financing Renewable Energy Projects in Emerging Markets.” The study highlighted the role of digital financial solutions in improving access to financing and enhancing transparency and confidence in sustainable investments, while also emphasizing the importance of regulatory frameworks and government support.

Third place was awarded to the research paper “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Sustainable Audit Quality in the United Arab Emirates.” The study explored the impact of AI adoption on enhancing the accuracy, efficiency, and reliability of auditing processes, as well as the importance of technological readiness and institutional support.

The Department of Finance - Ajman and Ajman University honored the winning students and researchers, along with faculty members and supervisors, in recognition of their efforts in guiding students, developing research projects, and enhancing the quality of research outcomes. They also commended the role of the Ajman University Innovation Center in contributing to the success of the award and strengthening the integration of government expertise and academic capabilities.