Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University celebrates graduation of 396 learners of undergraduate and postgraduate programs

Under the patronage and in the presence of HH Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Dubai, UAE – 23 January 2018 — HBMSU Celebrates Graduation of 396 Learners Under the Patronage of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed

Under the patronage and in the presence of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU), the University celebrated the graduation of the seventh and eighth cohorts of undergraduate and postgraduate learners.

The ceremony took place at the Dubai World Trade Center and honored graduates from the School of Business and Quality Management, School of e-Education, and School of Health and Environmental Studies. A total of 396 graduates attended the ceremony, which welcomed distinguished guests including H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation; H.E. Lt. Gen. Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chairman of Police and General Security in Dubai and Chairman of HBMSU’s Board of Governors; members of the Board of Governors; Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU; faculty members; administrative leaders; parents; and learners.

Academic Excellence Reflects HBMSU’s Smart Learning Model

The ceremony celebrated the graduation of 26 learners with first-class honors, 30 with second-class honors, and 42 with third-class honors. These achievements reflect HBMSU’s success in adopting innovative, technology-driven learning approaches that redefine higher education and prepare qualified national talents to lead the UAE’s ambitious development journey.

Sheikh Hamdan Meets Graduate Entrepreneurs and Innovators

During the ceremony, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum met with a select group of HBMSU learners and alumni who have launched entrepreneurial ventures. He expressed pride in the graduates as role models for young Emirati talents equipped with knowledge, innovation, and determination, capable of shaping the nation’s future under the guidance of the UAE’s wise leadership.

Graduates presented innovative ideas that have evolved into promising projects contributing to the national economy, reinforcing HBMSU’s mission to graduate entrepreneurs rather than job seekers and create opportunities aligned with 21st-century challenges.

Dhahi Khalfan: Graduates Drive National Development and Innovation

H.E. Lt. Gen. Dhahi Khalfan Tamim highlighted that the graduation marks a new phase in the graduates’ journey as they apply their ideas to support social progress, economic growth, and technological advancement. He praised the graduates for joining the ranks of the UAE’s ambitious and promising youth.

“Under the unlimited support of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, HBMSU continues to graduate entrepreneurs rather than job seekers,” he said. “The University raises the quality of scientific research, entrepreneurship, and innovation while enriching knowledge and advancing the smart education sector.”

He added that HBMSU’s 2018–2020 strategic plan supports UAE Vision 2021 by building a competitive, knowledge-based economy led by innovative Emiratis, and reaffirmed the University’s commitment to re-engineering higher education locally, regionally, and globally.

Dr. Mansoor Al Awar Launches Zayed Cyber Palm for Education

Dr. Mansoor Al Awar inaugurated the graduation ceremony by announcing transformative initiatives aimed at redefining global higher education, most notably the “Zayed Cyber Palm for Education”. The initiative honors the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, whose visionary leadership established enduring foundations of giving and progress.

Dr. Al Awar explained that the initiative aligns with the declaration of 2018 as the Year of Zayed and reflects the vision of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, who stated in 2002: “I want the University to be a solid foundation for future institutes and universities.”

HBMSU Expands Smart Education Through Cloud-Based Platforms

Dr. Al Awar emphasized that HBMSU is entering a new phase of global engagement in higher education. The University aims to support emerging smart universities by offering expertise and a comprehensive cloud-based ecosystem, including:

  • Student Portal and Student Information System

  • Virtual classrooms

  • Online payment systems

  • Technical support services

  • Cloud-based school establishment and delivery

These platforms enable world-class smart education and accelerate digital transformation across the higher education sector.

HBMSU Launches School of Artificial Intelligence

Dr. Al Awar also announced the launch of the School of Artificial Intelligence, a strategic initiative designed to advance AI knowledge through research, innovation, and application. The school supports the UAE’s ambition to become a global AI hub and aligns with the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence, launched by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The school will offer advanced programs, including:

  • MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Engineering

  • MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Game Design

  • MSc in Artificial Intelligence and Computational Data Science

These programs aim to create positive social and economic impact at both local and international levels.

Graduating Entrepreneurs, Not Job Seekers

Dr. Al Awar noted that this graduation coincides with the Year of Zayed, commemorating the centennial of Sheikh Zayed’s birth and honoring his transformative vision for education. He highlighted HBMSU’s success in re-engineering education through fully online accredited programs, including the Master of Science in Change Management and Creativity.

“Today, we witness the results of our unique educational approach,” Dr. Al Awar said. “Instead of producing job seekers, HBMSU graduates entrepreneurs. More than 70 alumni have launched their own businesses, each with investments worth millions, contributing directly to the UAE’s economy.”

He concluded by expressing confidence that HBMSU graduates will continue their journey of scientific and professional excellence while maintaining strong ties with the University for ongoing support.

Dubai Center for Islamic Banking & Finance releases Takaful

Dubai Center for Islamic Banking & Finance releases Takaful-focused 3rd annual report on Islamic Economy

  • Global Takaful industry’s annual growth rate pegged at 9 per cent
  • Takaful economy expanding significantly in Arabian Gulf, North Africa, the Levant, Near & South East Asia
  • Global Takaful workforce grew 55 per cent between 2011 & 2015
  • 202 new Takaful worldwide enterprises formed from 2003 to 2015
  • Takaful institutions present in 51 per cent of OIC countries
  • Takaful companies advised to re-evaluate operational costs & upgrade marketing strategies to enhance competitive advantages & increase revenues

Dubai, UAE, November 27th, 2017 – The Dubai Center for Islamic Banking and Finance (DCIBF), an entity formed through a partnership between Hamdan bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) and the ‘Dubai the Capital of Islamic Economy’ initiative, has released its third annual report on the Islamic economy entitled ‘Takaful: Sustainability and Growth 2015 to 2025.’ The publication reveals that the global takaful industry is growing at an annual rate of 9 per cent and is attracting broader attention worldwide. Continue reading “Dubai Center for Islamic Banking & Finance releases Takaful”

Dhahi Khalfan congratulates H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid & H.H. Hamdan bin Mohammed on latest achievement of HBMSU

Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University Master of Science in Innovation & Change Management program first to be delivered fully online in UAE

Academic Accreditation is unprecedented success embodying vision of leadership to make Dubai the smartest city in the world

Dubai, UAE, October 15, 2017 – H.E. Lieutenant General Dhahi Khalfan Tamim, Deputy Chairman of Police and General Security in Dubai and Chairman of Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) Board of Governors, dedicated the university’s unprecedented success in obtaining an academic accreditation to deliver its Master of Science in Innovation and Change Management program fully online in the UAE to H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and the President of HBMSU. Continue reading “Dhahi Khalfan congratulates H.H. Mohammed bin Rashid & H.H. Hamdan bin Mohammed on latest achievement of HBMSU”

ELM signs Memorandum of Understanding with Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government

Agreement focuses on training, education, and leaders’ preparation

Dubai, UAE, October 12, 2017 – ELM Company, a pioneer in business, learning, training, and digital solutions, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government (MBRSG) recently at the latter’s headquarters in Dubai, stating the cooperation between the organizations in the areas of training, education, leaders’ preparation, scientific research, and documentation and publication of the best governmental practices. Continue reading “ELM signs Memorandum of Understanding with Mohammed bin Rashid School of Government”

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”

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”

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)”

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’”

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”

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).’