Strengthening its role as a pioneer in employing technology to advance higher education

Mansoor Al Awar: 'Our unique initiatives enhance our role as a driving force of smart transformation in the UAE and the world and the graduation of qualified generations equipped with knowledge, technology and science to shape a better future.”

October 21, 2021 - Hamdan Bin Mohamed Smart University (HBMSU) showcased the latest technological innovations in the field of smart learning and its most prominent initiatives in providing a higher education that is based on innovation, technology, and scientific research during its participation in the 41st edition of GITEX Technology Week which was held in October 17 to 21 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

GITEX 2021, the most important event in the field of information and communication technology in the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia, served as a platform for HBMSU to put a spotlight on innovative educational solutions that integrates advanced technologies within the educational system, foremost of which is its ‘Smart Building’, the first of its kind for an academic and educational institution in the world. This initiative is in line with the directive of wise leadership in promoting optimal investment in technology as the foundation of the future.

HBMSU participated at GITEX Technology Week 202, showcasing the salient features of the Smart Building. Being the first of its kind in the world, it aims to raise the levels of flexibility, adaptation, and ability to keep pace with future innovations. The building follows an advanced smart system which enhances operational efficiency such as control of lighting, air conditioning and energy systems. It adheres with the best practices in sustainability and innovation while transforming the face of education, anticipating the future, and supporting national strategies in positioning the UAE as a hub for the development of artificial intelligence, other digital technologies, and legislation.

The university’s technological achievements also attracted significant attention from visitors, especially its success in consolidating all its smart systems and services from its data centers to the leading cloud computing platform Amazon Web Services (AWS), cementing its role as the first university in the Middle East and North Africa to take this step. Another notable achievement highlighted is the Certfolium initiative, which is a cloud-based platform that the university has established within its campus to issue accredited certificates and degrees via Blockchain technology in line with the smart transformation plans.

Visitors to the global exhibition also had the opportunity to learn about the advantages of the Cloud Campus platform, which is developed to provide education for all through an interactive learning method which aims to improve future skills, in line with the university's vision of laying the foundations for lifelong learning through an inclusive education approach.

His Excellency Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU, said: “We are pleased to participate in GITEX Technology Week 2021 to promote the distinctive features of our portfolio for smart learning solutions and highlight our leading initiatives aimed at integrating technology to advance higher education. This is in accordance with the wise directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of the University, who emphasizes that who owns the technology today has the ownership of success tomorrow.”

“The leading international event provides an ideal platform for us to showcase the leadership level that HBMSU has reached as a driving force for the smart transformation in the UAE and the Arab world. Our world-class programs are at par with the global standards, ensuring that our graduates are equipped with necessary knowledge particularly in the field of technology and science which are essential for a generation that will play a pivotal role in creating a safer and more sustainable tomorrow for all,” he added.

Al Awar concluded: “Our participation in the largest technology exhibition of its kind in the region is in line with our commitment to share our leading global experience to contribute to the fulfilment of the national objectives to upgrade the educational system and create a stimulating environment for honing creative minds, intellectual capabilities and analytical skills. Further, we are committed to transform the face of traditional education system and to spark positive change within the various economic sectors that support the process of comprehensive and sustainable development by employing smart learning approach in creating technologically capable generations.”

The university’s participation in the tech event also served as an opportunity to introduce the public to the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the university.  Inspired by the university’s commitment to address the society’s growing need to support entrepreneurial ideas, the ecosystem is designed as an addition to the diverse programs that support learners keen to enter entrepreneurship. Through this initiative, the university aims to equip learners with critical thinking skills and problem solving, enhance their communication skills, and hone their creativity.

Other initiatives highlighted in the event also include the Smart Campus platform, which consolidates all the smart services that learners need throughout their educational journey and allowing learners to learn anytime and anywhere. The university also displayed the Cloud Campus which offers online training and professional development though programs focused on building competencies and enhancing skills in various professional fields.

GITEX Technology Week 2021 is one of the major events that convenes leading and emerging companies, and other major players in the technology sector for exhibition of digital developments and innovations. The international event focuses on futuristic technologies including the advancements of artificial intelligence, 5G communications, cloud computing, big data, digital security, blockchain technologies, quantum computing, immersive marketing technologies, and financial technology. The exhibition is held in conjunction with the Gitex Future Stars, Future of Blockchain Summit, Artificial Intelligence for Everything Summit, GITEX Marketing Minia, and Fintech Surge.