New Jersey, April 17, 2026 – The United States Artificial Intelligence Institute (USAII®) today announced a strategic partnership with American University of Sharjah (AUS), which will give AUS students the opportunity to participate in the USAII’s Global AI Hackathon 2026, a premier international competition bringing together more than 20,000 students worldwide.
Through the hackathon, AUS students will join a diverse global community to design, build, and showcase real-world AI solutions on an international stage. Open to students from different academic backgrounds, the competition offers participants the chance to work in teams, receive mentorship, and present their ideas to an international panel of judges.
The collaboration places the hackathon at the center of the partnership, reflecting a shared vision between USAII® and AUS to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) education, foster global innovation, and equip students with the skills needed to thrive in an AI-driven economy.
“The future of AI will be shaped by institutions that combine academic rigor with real-world application,” said Mike Spaeth, Global Vice President of Growth & Partnerships at USAII®. “American University of Sharjah is doing exactly that—building a pipeline of globally competitive, AI-ready talent. Through the USAII’s Global AI Hackathon, we are proud to provide AUS students with a platform to apply their skills, collaborate across borders, and lead in the next generation of innovation.”
As part of the hackathon experience, students will build AI solutions that address meaningful challenges, strengthen their innovation and problem-solving skills, engage with a global network of mentors and peers, and compete for recognition and awards. The program includes a global kickoff session, a one-week build phase, project submission and judging, and a global showcase and awards ceremony.
Key dates for the USAII’s Global AI Hackathon 2026 are as follows: registration will run from April 26 to June 6, 2026; the hackathon will take place from June 14 to June 21, 2026; and the awards ceremony will be held on June 27, 2026. Students can register at https://aihackathon.usaii.org or contact aihackathon@usaii.org for more information.
A Leader in AI Education and Innovation
AUS has established a strong and growing presence in AI education through a combination of specialized programs, interdisciplinary degrees, and applied research initiatives. Its flagship Master of Science in Machine Learning provides advanced training in areas such as deep learning, computer vision, and data science, while undergraduate programs in intelligent systems, computer science, and data analytics integrate AI into real-world applications, including robotics, smart infrastructure, and autonomous systems.
“At AUS, we see AI as both a technological frontier and a strategic driver of future economic and societal progress,” said Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering. “This partnership with USAII creates an important pathway for our students to move beyond theory and engage in high-impact, solution-oriented innovation alongside peers from around the world. It reinforces our commitment to developing globally competitive talent equipped to shape the future of AI with technical excellence, creativity, and responsibility.”
This comprehensive approach ensures that students across disciplines gain practical, career-ready AI skills aligned with global industry needs, making AUS an ideal partner for a global initiative like the USAII Hackathon.
Beyond the classroom, AUS is advancing innovation through dedicated research centers focused on AI, robotics, and smart cities, alongside campus-wide initiatives that promote AI literacy and industry collaboration. Through conferences, partnerships, and hands-on learning opportunities, the university continues to strengthen its role as a leading contributor to the Middle East’s rapidly growing AI ecosystem.
Advancing Future-Ready Skills on a Global Stage
By combining USAII’s global platform with AUS’s academic excellence and innovation ecosystem, this partnership creates a powerful opportunity for students to gain real-world AI experience while representing their university on an international stage.
Together, USAII and AUS are advancing a shared mission: to democratize access to AI education, empower the next generation of leaders, and drive meaningful impact through technology.
About USAII®
The United States Artificial Intelligence Institute (USAII®) is the world's leading provider of AI certifications, offering comprehensive and industry-relevant programs designed to equip individuals with the skills needed to excel in the AI-driven economy. USAII's certifications are recognized globally for their excellence and practical relevance. For more information, visit www.usaii.org.
About AUS
AUS is a leading educational institution in the Middle East, dedicated to advancing society through academic excellence, research, innovation, and meaningful collaboration with industry and culture. For more info, visit https://www.aus.edu/
