The University of Wollongong, which has locations in Dubai and Australia, is the fortunate recipient of the impressive pavilion used by Australia during the World Expo in Dubai, pledging to utilise the space for a host of technological and sustainability projects.

For Expo 2020, huge and sustainable ‘pavilions’ were constructed for countries around the world to showcase the best of their national developments.

While most pavilions have been taken down or moved, some countries, such as Australia, held on to theirs.

However, the Australian government has decided to gift the pavilion to the University of Wollongong (UoW) in Dubai for a host of sustainability research projects and media initiatives.

A Leading Research Centre

Recently, UOW revealed plans for a research centre – the “Data Science, Discovery, and Innovation Center” in Dubai – that has the stated aim of being a home for technological and environmental innovation.

The centre, which is the repurposed Australian pavilion, aims to be a benefit for UoW, Australia and the UAE.

UoW Vice-Chancellor Patricia M. Davidson said: “Australia’s Expo Pavilion was called Blue Sky Dreaming, taking inspiration from the cumulus cloud, a feature of the diverse Australian landscape. 

“Similarly, our new Data Science Discovery and Innovation Centre will provide a space for multiple ideas and visions, unified by their pursuit of innovation and discovery.”

UoW in Dubai President Professor Mohamed Salem said: “This facility and its capabilities are unique within the region.

 “Solutions created through enquiry into data in many fields are of vital interest to governments and industries in the region and Australia.

 “We look forward to working with other NSW-based universities to facilitate collaborative opportunities as part of this initiative.”

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