Our engagement with the entire UN ecosystem in the UAE reinforces our commitment to sustainability, fostering collaboration for the common good, shares Dima Rachid Jamali, Vice President of Academic Affairs, Canadian University, Dubai, UAE in an exclusive interaction with Nidhi Shail Kujur of Elets News Network (ENN). Edited Excerpts:
As Vice President of Academic Affairs at Canadian University Dubai, UAE, how have you been instrumental in embedding sustainability into the university’s curricula and culture? Can you share some specific initiatives or strategies that have been successful in achieving this goal?
In my capacity as the Vice President of Academic Affairs at Canadian University Dubai, embedding sustainability into our university’s curricula and fostering a culture that prioritizes environmental consciousness are indeed and certainly my strategic academic excellence blueprint. As an active signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) Middle East, we have strategically positioned sustainability as a core pillar within education and curricula. Our commitment extends beyond the academic sphere, integrating sustainability into our core values and business operations.
One successful initiative is the annual flagship Sustainability Summit, providing a platform for students to network with key sustainability experts and engage with the latest developments in the field. This summit not only enhances awareness but also encourages students to actively participate in sustainable practices. Additionally, we have prioritized research excellence in sustainability and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) topics, contributing valuable insights to the global discourse on sustainable development.
A significant milestone is our recent collaboration with ZeeArts and Dubai Municipality on the “United for Climate” Initiative, launched at COP-28 UAE. This student-centred climate action initiative creatively merges art and environmental consciousness. CUD students actively participated by creating an impressive art sculpture for Dubai using recycled materials, showcasing their dedication to environmental sustainability and climate action. The sculpture was proudly exhibited at COP28, representing our university’s commitment to sustainability on a global stage.
Furthermore, our engagement with the entire UN ecosystem in the UAE reinforces our commitment to sustainability, fostering collaboration for the common good. By actively participating in initiatives like “United for Climate’’ and other key strategic sustainability initiatives, we empower our students to become champions and movers of change, actively contributing to remarkable sustainability projects. Canadian University Dubai continues to be at the forefront of sustainable education, where our students not only learn about sustainability but actively participate in initiatives that contribute to a more sustainable future for our community and the world.
Can you elaborate on any unique approaches or technologies that have been introduced to promote active learning and student engagement, regardless of the specific academic discipline?
I am proud to share our innovative approaches and technologies aimed at promoting active learning and enhancing student engagement across all academic disciplines. Our commitment to a tech-enabled student body aligns with the university’s strategic vision to prepare students for success in a highly competitive landscape.
Moodle
Our Learning Management System (LMS), Moodle, serves as a centralized platform for course materials, interactive quizzes, and collaborative discussions. It facilitates a blended learning environment, allowing students to access resources anytime, anywhere.
Power BI
We have integrated Power BI to provide real-time analytics on student performance. This tool not only helps faculty in assessing student progress but also enables personalized feedback and intervention strategies, ensuring a proactive approach to academic support.
Simulations
Emphasizing experiential learning, our use of simulations spans various disciplines. Whether it’s virtual labs for science courses or business simulations for management studies, these interactive experiences allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios, fostering critical thinking and decision-making skills.
Interactive Case Studies
We have developed interactive case studies that challenge students to analyze and solve real world problems. This approach promotes active learning, as students engage in discussions, debates, and collaborative problem-solving, mirroring the challenges they may face in their future careers.
Advising App
Recognizing the importance of personalized guidance, our Advising App leverages technology to provide students with academic and career advice. It streamlines communication between students and advisors, ensuring a tailored approach to individual academic journeys.
CLO and PLO Achievement Tool
To measure and enhance the effectiveness of our programs, we utilize a tool focusing on Course Learning Outcomes (CLO) and Program Learning Outcomes (PLO). This tool provides real-time data on how well students are meeting educational objectives, enabling continuous improvement in curriculum design and delivery.
Our strategic vision involves not just incorporating technology into the curriculum but embedding it seamlessly to create an immersive learning experience aligning seamlessly with the ambitious Dubai 2040 Vision. By integrating smart learning technologies, we are actively contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming a global knowledge and innovation hub. Our focus on future-ready skills, global competitiveness, and continuous learning directly supports the city’s goal of creating a dynamic and resilient society capable of navigating the challenges of the future.
Embracing digital transformation, our strategic vision aligns with Dubai’s commitment to positioning itself as a leader in technological advancements, fostering a culture of innovation, and establishing an education system that prepares individuals to thrive in the rapidly evolving global landscape envisioned by Dubai 2040.
What are your thoughts on global collaborative platforms like the World Education Summit, which aims to improve the education landscape worldwide?
Global collaborative platforms, exemplified by initiatives like the World Education Summit, serve as catalysts for positive transformations in the field of education. These platforms offer a unique opportunity for educational institutions, policymakers, and professionals to come together, share insights, and collaboratively address the challenges and opportunities facing the global education landscape.
