Posted on

Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) announced its collaboration with Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University

DEWA launches leadership programmes in cooperation with Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University

Dubai, UAE, December 26th 2016 – Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) announced its collaboration with Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), to develop two leadership programmes called ‘Frontiers Programme’ and the ‘Future Leadership Development Programme’. This adheres to the directives of the wise leadership, as part of DEWA’s commitment to integrate Emiratis into different positions, and develop their abilities for the future.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, commended the ongoing and intensive efforts of HBMSU, to spread the concept of smart learning, and instil a culture of innovation and excellence in research, while sharing skills, experience, and practices, with regional and international universities. Continue reading “Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) announced its collaboration with Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University”

Posted on

HBMSU & Australia’s University of Southern Queensland pledge mutual support for high-quality learning

Dubai, UAE, December 6, 2016 – Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), welcomed a delegation from the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) led by its Chancellor, Mr. John Dornbusch, to share the history, achievements and visions of their respective institutions and discuss cooperative ventures in key areas of mutual interest.

For almost 50 years, USQ has built a wide presence across Asia and established itself as a renowned global university. Dornbusch commended Dr. Mansoor on HBMSU’s major achievements and exchanged information on the activities, history, plans, programs and successes of their organizations. The Chancellors touched on several promising areas of collaboration, including faculty and learner exchanges, research, joint programs and awards, and supervision of doctoral candidates, among others.
Continue reading “HBMSU & Australia’s University of Southern Queensland pledge mutual support for high-quality learning”

Posted on

Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU)

HBMSU Management and Learners hold productive dialogue to heighten learning experience and study life at the university

UAE, October 15, 2016 – Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU)’s Learning Council recently organized a meeting between top management led by Chancellor Dr. Mansoor Al Awar and a group of university Learners and Ambassadors to discuss ways to further enhance the learning experience and the study life at the university. The council provided an excellent platform for learners to actively participate by raising their ideas, suggestions and expectations. The management provided helpful feedback and agreed to further explore some of the key recommendations presented during the meeting. Continue reading “Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU)”

Posted on

HBMSU explores the future of education through launch of ‘Innovation Lab for the Future of Smart Learning’

First session discusses agenda of smart learning with participation of local & international academics from inside and outside the university

In a bid to uphold the UAE’s smart education sector, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has launched ‘Innovation Lab for the Future of Smart Learning’. The new Lab is a qualitative addition that will make strategic contribution in exploring the future of smart education in the UAE by stimulating innovation and creativity in developing knowledge.

It will also adopt a culture of continuous and sustainable development, confirming the pioneering position of HBMSU as a center of academic and scientific excellence in the Arab world. Continue reading “HBMSU explores the future of education through launch of ‘Innovation Lab for the Future of Smart Learning’”

Posted on

New report defines world-class apprenticeships as those rooted in sector skills, knowledge and progression to employment

Analysis of leading countries points to defining features of world-class apprenticeships with lessons for the Middle East

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, August 29th 2016 – A new report has been released in the Middle East from the University of Derby, supported by Pearson, which looks at some of the world’s most heralded apprenticeship systems. The report is particularly useful for the Middle East, where many countries, such as the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, look to vocational education as a means through which economic diversification and reduced economic reliance on oil can be achieved.

The report’s main author, Dr Ruth Mieschbuehler, interviewed some of the world’s leading apprenticeship reformers in countries such as Germany, Denmark, Australia and the Netherlands. The following characteristics are identified in the report as being particularly important for a strong apprenticeship system:

  • extended apprenticeships of between three to four years;
  • broad and in-depth scientific and industrial skills and knowledge;
  • the presence of a ‘master’ in the company to train an apprentice;
  • high-quality knowledge-based education and training;
  • recognition through an occupational title on completion of the training;
  • apprentices to acquire all the skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively in an occupation;
  • apprentices to become skilled workers in an occupational area with a critical and creative approach; and
  • progression routes into employment as well as into further education and training.

Continue reading “New report defines world-class apprenticeships as those rooted in sector skills, knowledge and progression to employment”

Posted on

HBMSU receives Pearson recognition in education for ‘Smart Training Model’

  
Adoption of best international quality practices is proactive step towards continued leadership in smart education
UAE, July 24, 2016 –Under the unlimited support of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), and the close follow up of the Board of Trustees, the university has received Pearson recognition in education. The achievement complements HBMSU’s leadership in driving innovation, creativity and excellence in learning and education in the Arab World. The university was recognized for its Smart Training Model (A.A.A) which reflects the institution’s remarkable success in adopting the highest quality standards and best global practices in the field of education as part of its effective cooperative strategies with renowned international institutions involved in establishing benchmarks for the education sector.
Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU, said: “We are honored to accept an advanced international classification from a prestigious international company in the field of learning and education such as Pearson. The recognition emphasizes anew the leadership of HBMSU in fostering a culture of quality, excellence and scientific research via smart learning, and creating new ways to manage education and training system in accordance with the highest international quality standards.”
“There is no doubt that obtaining the Pearson recognition in education strengthens our leading position regionally in terms of providing high-quality education, in accordance with the wise directives of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of HBMSU, and the follow-up of our Board of Trustees, in order to re-shape the future of learning in the Arab World by using innovative methods that meet the requirements of the 21st Century,’ he added.
 “This latest achievement is a quantum leap towards consolidating the leadership of HBMSU in enriching knowledge and promoting excellence, quality and innovation in smart learning and scientific research. It will enable us to provide our integrated portfolio of smart education –based academic and training programs marked by Pearson’s recognition. This provides proof that our administrative, operational, training and educational methodologies match the highest international quality standards. We look forward with confidence that this major step will guarantee that our current and future learners receive high-quality education which will serve our common aspirations in improving the lives of people around the world through learning and education,” concluded Al Awar.
HBMSU’s Smart Training Model is based on the three independent phases of Awareness, Application, and Advisory. The Awareness phase is based on the self-paced learning process which provides individual and organizational participants with basic information in preparation for the move to the Application phase and can be provided either online or via shared information. The Application phase provides the foundation for achieving smart training objectives. It is characterized by an interactive environment that is supported by quality management models, hands-on tools and techniques, simulation, case studies, video presentations, and experiential learning, among others.
The Advisory phase is the final stage which provides support and guidance to participants through virtual means for sustainability and continuous improvement and which takes advantage of HBMSU’s vast online resources as well as support from regional and international team of Associates and subject matter experts and advisors.
The Pearson Global recognition in education is of high importance as it is an independent international index for measuring the quality of education and training programs offered by academic institutions and universities around the world. HBMSU achieved this prestigious international rating after undergoing a comprehensive evaluation process aimed at measuring organizational performance and determining the level of efficiency in managing education, training, testing and evaluation. The university achieved remarkable results and high points in the international index due to its excellent ability in applying the Life Long Learning model based on the latest smart innovations, as well as its success in training and developing teaching and administrative staff to keep pace with the rapid developments of the digital era.
The evaluation process was undertaken in accordance with quality objectives system and using the experience of Pearson Global in measuring the quality of education and learning.
All the training programs to be held during the second half of this year at HBMSU are now all recognized by UK-based Pearson, the world’s largest learning company. Pearson’s portfolio of approved programs includes several professional programs, the most important of which are the ‘Innovation Leadership in Governmental Sector’ program and diploma programs on ‘Smart Government Consultant,’ ‘7 Stars in Customer Service in Accordance with 4G Standards,’ and ‘Government Excellence (fourth generation).’
Posted on

Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences Honours Ministry of Health and Prevention

Ministry plays vital role in success of first kidney transplant in Dubai
 
UAE, 27 June, 2016 – Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences (MBRU) honored the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) for its contribution to the success of the first kidney transplant in Dubai. Dr. Mohamed Salim Al Olama, Undersecretary of MOHAP, received the University’s trophy as a token of appreciation from Dr. Amer Ahmad Sharif, CEO of the Education Sector in Dubai Healthcare City Authority, during his visit with the University delegation at MOHAP’s headquarters in Dubai.
 
Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences honours Ministry of Health and Prevention

The recognition event was held in the presence of Dr. Youssif Al Serkal, Assistant Undersecretary for Hospitals Sector, and University delegates Dr. Alawi Alsheikh-Ali, Dean of the College of Medicine, Dr. Farhad Janahi, Consultant Urologist and Assistant Professor, and Nujood Al Khloofi, Director of Marketing and External Relations Department at MBRU.

Dr. Al Olama expressed his appreciation for the recognition and noted that MOHAP’s efforts leading to the success of the first kidney transplant in Dubai hails from the directives of the UAE’s wise leadership to raise the level of health services for citizens and residents and ensure it meets the highest international standards.
 
He said that the UAE’s healthcare sector is undergoing a major transformation as new paths are taken and adopted in the field of surgical care and organ transplant, as well as innovation in diagnostic and therapeutic services, application of advanced medical technology, and continuing education for the country’s doctors, consultants and nurses – all of which are aimed at ensuring satisfaction and happiness for citizens and residents as embodied in UAE Vision 2021.
 
The Ministry will spare no effort to support all significant initiatives in modern surgeries and will take advantage of the global development in organ transplants, including the latest education developments in universities, research and treatment centers and major hospitals, he added.
 
Dr. Sharif articulated his appreciation to the Ministry for its unwavering support to the success of the first kidney transplant in Dubai, which he said is an ideal example of cooperation among various stakeholders. He also cited MOHAP’s vital role in supporting innovative projects for the advancement of medical education, which will place the country among the world’s top medical achievers by engaging in strategic partnerships and initiating treatment programs for enhancing the health of individuals and society as a whole.

Posted on

43 Children Graduate from DEWA Nurseries in 2016

Dubai, UAE, 20 June 2016 – Dubai Electricity and Water Authority’s (DEWA’s) nurseries have had 43 children graduate in 2016. These are employees’ children who turned four and completed the requirements to go to kindergarten. The graduation ceremony, organised by the nursery’s management, was attended by HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA, and Dr. Yousef Al Akraf, Executive Vice President of Business Support and Human Resources at DEWA.
Dewa Nurseries

“DEWA takes priority in its staff”, as they are the cornerstone for achieving excellence in all areas, and the driving force behind corporate success and leadership. DEWA is committed to providing a motivating, positive, and happy working environment for its female staff. This helps provide social stability for working mothers, which in turn reflects positively on their work-life balance. The nurseries develop the children’s capabilities in a safe environment supervised by qualified and specialised female teachers and supervisors. This is achieved through various educational, cultural, and entertaining activities. The nurseries provide all requirements and tools that build their personalities and prepare them for school. This is done according to the highest international standards in education and healthy upbringing. This helped raise parents’ satisfaction to 98%,” said Al Tayer.

“DEWA established the nurseries to support and empower working mothers and provide a working environment that provides social and psychological care for mothers in their presence near their children. DEWA’s nurseries organise various educational and recreational activities which develop children’s mental abilities and contribute to their development,” said Al Akraf.
DEWA established the first nursery for the children of its employees in February 2010 according to the highest international standards in education, with a capacity of 40 children. Another nursery opened with a capacity of 48 children in the Sustainable Building at Al Quoz in April 2013. The third nursery opened at DEWA’s Al Warsan centre, which accommodates 87 children. A total number of 216 children have graduated from DEWA’s nurseries, this summer.
Posted on

HBMSU Commissioned to Convert Al Ahli Driving Centre’s Theoretical Lessons to Interactive eLearning Format

Cloud-ready content to be available in three languages & accessible across all platforms & devices
UAE, June 19, 2016 – Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has announced that it has been commissioned by Al Ahli Driving Centre, a Dubai-based driving school to develop an interactive online version of its theoretical lessons to enhance existing training and registration processes. The contract was signed at the HBMSU campus in the presence of Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU and Emirati referee Ali Bujsaim, Chairman of Al Ahli Group.
Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU and Emirati referee Ali Bujsaim, Chairman of Al Ahli Group

Under the terms of the agreement, HBMSU will make the content available in three languages – English, Arabic and Urdu – and host them on the Cloud where they can be accessed via all platforms and devices. The university will also develop a system for displaying the Centre’s courses and produce videos with HTML5 content covering eight (8) lessons. Each session will take up 45 minutes of learning time, inclusive of evaluation and assessment, and will incorporate animation and graphics as well as a presenter to add a personal, interactive touch.

HBMSU will provide a state-of-the-art platform for hosting the content which will feature tracking and reporting functions and integrate with existing learner registration and course navigation systems.
Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, said: “Driving is a common yet important activity that affects our personal, professional and social lives. Our agreement with Al Ahli Driving Centre will help make driving practices clearer, safer and more broadly adopted by eliciting higher interest, participation and feedback from learners who will benefit from interactive sessions that are further enriched by assessments. It will also enhance the Centre’s registration, processing and course delivery to provide a more convenient and fulfilling experience for customers. We look forward to applying our vast eLearning experience to driver training through this agreement.”
“Our new eLearning platform will enable our learners to access instructional materials anytime and anywhere, at their own pace and convenience, in coordination with the Center. The interactive versions of our lessons that we have commissioned HBMSU to develop can emphasize key aspects of driving better than traditional classroom methods. Moreover, the extended automation of our registration and training are in step with Dubai’s ongoing ‘Smart Transformation.’ This agreement is a major step towards optimizing the training and operational efficiency of our institution,” added Bujsaim.
HBMSU’s agreement with Al Ahli Driving Centre forms part of its ongoing efforts to apply its expertise in high-quality, innovative and research-driven ‘smart’ learning to everyday living to create a productive and responsible knowledge-driven Arab society.
Posted on

Pearson, Emirates Aviation University Applaud New Rules Governing Vocational Qualifications

Leading education providers in the UAE welcome recognition of international qualifications
Dubai, UAE, 17 May, 2016 – Dubai: The Emirates Aviation University and Pearson have announced their support of changes to the rules governing qualifications recognition in the UAE.
Recently, the UAE’s National Qualifications Authority (NQA) and Dubai’s Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) announced that international qualifications, such as Pearson’s BTEC qualifications, would be recognised throughout the UAE.
Pearson qualifications, including the BTEC National Diplomas and Higher National Diplomas, are offered through a number of UAE educational providers. These qualifications, which have long been recognised by awarding agencies around the world, will now also be officially recognised by the UAE government.
Dr Naji Al Mahdi, Chief of Qualifications and Awards at KHDA, was enthusiastic about the benefits UAE recognition of international qualifications will bring. He commented: “This new recognition service will address challenges faced by young men and women ingetting their professional and vocational qualifications recognised in the UAE. The recognition service will provide an official confirmation and validation that an international qualification meets the requirements of a specific level on the National Qualifications Framework for the purpose of employment and progression to higher education”.
The Emirates Aviation University (EAU), which offers several BTEC qualifications, has applauded the announcement. Dr Ahmad Al Ali, Vice Chancellor of EAUbelieves changes will bring benefits not only to those learners undertaking a professional or vocational qualification, but also organisations looking to recruit suitable trained graduates. He says: “Undertaking a vocational qualification requires a significant commitment in both time and money.  Learners therefore want to be sure that they are embarking on a programme that will give them the best possible chance of success in future employment. By obtaining recognition, programmes like the Higher National Diploma have been given a mark of quality that assures learners that their chosen qualification adheres to rigorous guidelines. It is also great news for employers, who will now be readily able to identify candidates with a superior qualification and have an understanding of the level of capability associated with that qualification.”
Mark Andrews, Regional Director of Pearson Qualifications in the Middle East acknowledged the important role recognition plays in building a professional and competent vocational workforce. He says: “The UAE, and wider GCC region are affected by a skills gap where employers are routinely unable to find candidates with the requisite standard of qualifications and competencies, particularly in many vocational areas. The changes to the way vocational qualifications are recognised in the UAE will help to build a more professional vocationally-based workforce, and fill some of the gaps that currently exist in the labour market. By streamlining and simplifying the recognition process, we will hopefully see more people completing high quality vocational programmes and entering employment in in-demand fields”.