Salt, Oct. 12 (Petra) -- Minister of Environment Ayman Abdullah Suleiman on Monday inaugurated laboratories at the International Center for Water, Environment and Energy Research at Al-Balqa Applied University.

The new laboratories are part of efforts to advance applied scientific research and expand specialized testing services in water, environmental and agricultural sciences, supporting national institutions and researchers and helping develop sustainable, science-based solutions to environmental challenges.

Suleiman stressed the importance of strengthening research capabilities and specialized laboratory facilities to protect natural resources and ensure that environmental assessments are based on accurate scientific testing and analysis. He noted that these capabilities also support the development of national policies and programmes aimed at achieving sustainable development.

He commended the university’s efforts to upgrade its research infrastructure and promote applied scientific research through specialized facilities serving the water, environment and agriculture sectors, while strengthening cooperation between academic institutions and relevant national entities.

University President Ahmad Fakhri Al-Ajlouni said the laboratories represent a significant addition to the university’s applied research infrastructure, enhancing its capabilities in water, environmental and agricultural sciences.

He added that the university is committed to using its academic expertise and scientific resources to serve local communities, strengthen partnerships with national institutions and develop practical solutions to environmental challenges in support of sustainable development.

Hiba Kharabsheh, the Director of the International Center for Water, Environment and Energy Research, said the laboratories mark an important step in expanding the centre’s research and technical services. They are equipped with specialized facilities and modern technologies for conducting chemical and microbiological tests and analyses in accordance with advanced scientific standards.

She said the laboratories would provide specialized services to local communities and institutions working in water, environmental and agricultural fields, while supporting researchers, faculty members and students. The facilities will provide an advanced practical research environment to improve the quality of scientific studies and help develop sustainable solutions to environmental and agricultural challenges.

The laboratories are the first of their kind at the university in terms of their specialization in water, environmental and agricultural testing. They comprise two main units: chemical analysis and microbiology, both equipped with modern laboratory instruments and technologies.

The facilities will provide testing and analytical services to relevant institutions and the local community, while supporting scientific research and offering faculty members and students an advanced practical learning environment. They are also expected to improve research quality, encourage innovation, support the protection of natural resources and contribute to sustainable solutions to environmental and agricultural challenges.

During the opening ceremony, attendees toured the chemical analysis and microbiology laboratories and were briefed on their equipment, technical capabilities and testing services, as well as their role in supporting scientific research and practical applications in water, environmental and agricultural sciences.

The opening reflects the university’s efforts to advance applied research, expand partnerships with national institutions and strengthen specialized research infrastructure to serve local communities, promote innovation and develop sustainable scientific solutions to challenges related to water, the environment and agriculture.

//Petra//WH