Inside. Dubai colleges celebrate 20 years of education excellence. Graduates honoured. Pg 5 Pg 9 Pg 12 Pg 15. Vol 5 Issue 9, June 2009

Transcription

1 Vol 5 Issue 9, June 2009 (from left) Dr Robert Richards, Mr Norm Gray, HE Abdulghaffar Hussain, Chairman Emirates Human Rights Association, HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of the HCT, HE Hussain Lootah, Director General of Dubai Municipality and HCT Vice Chancellor Dr Tayeb Kamali at the celebrations. Dubai colleges celebrate 20 years of education excellence Two HCT campuses have celebrated 20 years of educational excellence with staff, students, graduates, key corporate partners and members of the local community and in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology. Dubai Men s College (DMC) celebrations took place in April, while Dubai Women s College (DWC) celebrated in May. At DMC, HE Sheikh Nahayan expressed his great pride in the achievements of the college over the past 20 years and noted that 21 students graduated from the college in 1989, while currently more than 500 students complete their education in the college every year. Norm Gray, the founding director of the college from 1989 to 2004, entertained the audience with anecdotes about life at DMC during the early phases of its development. Dubai Women s College (DWC) 20th anniversary celebration showcased milestones that have had a significant impact in the educational scene in UAE, and have been the hallmark of the college s long standing mission since its inception in 1989, which is to provide high quality education to UAE women. HE Sheikh Nahayan honoured outstanding employers, educational institutions, media, DWC partners and graduates with DWC awards and certificates. Since its inception in 1989, Dubai Women s College emphasized its role as an essential bridge between the present and the future, Sheikh Nahayan said. It enabled its students to understand their opportunities and responsibilities to serve their country while living in a constantly changing global community. And, there is no place on earth that is more global than Dubai. Dr Howard Reed, DWC Director, pointed out that UAE s extraordinary leaders, the late President Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan (may his soul rest in peace) and His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan, had the wisdom to provide young Emiratis with the opportunity and responsibility to prepare for a new era of development and globalization. These two visionary leaders inspired the DWC team to educate a new generation of women who will actively participate in the building of a new nation, Dr Reed said. - Wendy Fox and Abrar Mikkawi Graduates honoured Industry leaders and the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) have proudly recognized 54 graduates in the top 10 percent of their graduating class as Abu Dhabi Industry Award winners. The award, now in its sixth year, was created to encourage national students to pursue professional programs which are vital for local industry, to encourage national students to excel in their studies and to give UAE industry leaders an opportunity to recognize excellence in national graduates. His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Chancellor of the HCT opened the Award ceremony. We are extremely proud of your accomplishments, your enthusiasm and dedication to academic excellence. Your contributions will reflect positively on our country s future, Sheikh Nahayan said. - Adele Stevens Inside Pg 5 Pg 9 Pg 12 Pg 15 Festival winner Star graduates Terrific teamwork Rowing champions

2 News NothingÊ byê Accident Our journey of success continues As HCT s 21st academic year closes and we prepare for our 22nd, we can look back and be proud of our accomplishments. With another cohort of committed and enthusiastic HCT graduates preparing to enter the workplace and contribute to the development of the nation, the keys to the HCT s success are evident. We have built our enviable reputation by facilitating effective universal access to higher education for all national students in every region of the UAE by delivering careeroriented academic and training programs that are world-class. The variety of special events hosted by the HCT held around the country this past year are a testament to our commitment to serving the community. Events ranged from Counselling Arabia, Mosaic 2009, the Cultivating Real Writers English Conference, the 7th National Teacher Education Conference, and of course, Education Without Borders (EWB). EWB was a resounding success, and I know that many students have taken away inspiration, ideas and formed networks of likeminded individuals. I am certain the coming academic year will continue to provide stimulation and success. Preparations are underway for the Festival of Thinkers from 1 to 4 November, which is shaping up to be a fascinating and illuminating conference, with many Nobel laureates and world thinkers such as HM King Constantine, Steve Forbes and Cherie Blair QC. In all this activity, it is important to remember the cornerstones of success hard work, dedication and perseverance, intelligent and well-considered actions. Nothing is by accident. Dr Tayeb Kamali HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan is presented with a copy of the book by engineering student Sumaiiah Saeed Ali Saif Saeed Bin Hareb. Latest HCT Press offering hits the shelves Building on seminars and research presented at the 2008 Centre of Excellence for English conference, the latest release from the HCT Press focuses on improving the reading of English by adult speakers of Arabic. Officially launched at the 2009 English conference by HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of the HCT, Cultivating Real Readers - Emerging Theory and Practice for Adult Arab Learners covers multiple aspects and approaches, and articles range from the largely theoretical to action research. Edited by faculty members David Anderson, Maria McGuire and Pauline Barr, Cultivating Real Readers features contributions not only from HCT faculty across the system, but also faculty from other higher education establishments in the UAE including Zayed University, the British University in Dubai and the Al Ain University of Science and Technology. For more information about this and other HCT Press publications visit - Michael O Brien Distinction graduates applauded Under the patronage and in the presence of the Mother of the Nation, HH Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, 148 female Higher Colleges of Technology students who graduated with distinction or above in a bachelor or master s program in the 2007/08 academic year participated in a joint graduation ceremony on 1 April The HCT graduates participating in the ceremony earned the following credentials: Five Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship graduates from the program s inaugural class who all achieved Distinction with Honors; Eight Distinction with Highest Honors graduates from Bachelor programs; 50 Distinction with Honors graduates from Bachelor programs; and 85 Distinction graduates from Bachelor programs. Congratulations to all HCT graduates. We wish you nothing but the very best for the future. Quote Ò I cannot teach anybody anything, I can only make them think.ó Socrates Ras Al Khaimah Men s College students gather with Federal National Council First Deputy Speaker HE Dr Ahmed Shaheeb Al Dhaheri. Watching government in action A group of Ras Al Khaimah Men s College students witnessed first-hand their government in action while attending a session of the Federal National Council as part of an English project which compares legislative processes in the UAE and the US, and examines the role and function of the UAE Federal National Council (FNC). The students watched as FNC members directed questions at several Cabinet Ministers, including the then Minister of Education, HE Dr Hanif Hassan, and Minister of Public Works, HE Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan. RKMC student, Easa Ali Mohamed, said he enjoyed the experience. It was a great opportunity to hear the members and Ministers discuss a number of important issues such as test results and the marriage fund, but I also wanted to participate in the discussions. Following the morning session, students had the honor of meeting with First Deputy Speaker HE Dr Ahmed Shaheeb Al Dhaheri who spent over an hour summarizing his views on the development and importance of the FNC in bridging both the traditional and modern aspects of the UAE s system of government. - Ray La Bonte 2

3 News Islamic academics in search of national identity Azim Premji, Chairman of Wipro Ltd, in discussion with Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology on a recent trip to the Colleges. Education Without Borders presents top paper winners Tariq Ramadan was once described in The New York Times as an Egyptian Muslim growing up in Geneva, others have described him as hard to pin down, slippery, dangerous and some have even labeled him a Muslim Martin Luther King. Sharjah Higher Colleges students and visitors had the chance to make up their own minds when Dr Ramadan joined a panel of seven internationally renowned academics for the Sharjah Higher Colleges of Technology s forum on national identity titled Who am I? Who are You? A dialogue on National Identity on April. The conference was held under the patronage and in the presence of HH Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and in the presence of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology. The aim of the conference was to explore the political, cultural, and conceptual aspects of identity in the context of a world that has become transformed by globalization, technology, mass communications and demographic changes. It is hoped that the conference will contribute to the ongoing exchange of ideas on national identity in the UAE. - Dr Hilton Kolbe Changemaker participates in World Forum The EWB 2009 student paper winners at the closing ceremony. Education Without Borders 2009 may have come to a close, but for the 1,000-plus students from around the globe who participated, this is just the start of their missions to make the world a better place. More than 1,000 students from more than 120 countries participated in the biennial international student conference, hosted and organized by the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT). The event has become a highlight on the educational calendar. On the last day of the conference, HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Chancellor the Higher Colleges of Technology, presented awards to the best paper presenters across the different themes of the conference. Irina Pleva, a Latvian student studying at the University of Jyvaskyla, Finland won the Toshiba Award for the most outstanding paper. In addition to her award, she received a Toshiba computer and an internship at the Toshiba laboratories in Oxford, UK. Irina s paper investigated the burden that industry puts onto the environment, and proposed solutions that create eco-industrial networks by establishing correlation between nature s ecosystems and manmade industrial networks. Other winners were: Ayesha Al Ateeqi (Higher Colleges of Technology, UAE) - The Lehigh University Iacocca Institute Global Village special award for best paper by a UAE national student for her paper, We have come a long way: Redefining Education and its global challenges in the United Arab Emirates. Sky Taylor Woodlands (University of Queensland, Australia) - Nikai award for the best Multi-media presentation for his presentation The Culture of Consumption: Where do you stand on your Ecological Footprint? Kalpana Tyagi (National University of Singapore) - Lehigh University - Iacocca Institute Global Village award for her paper M&As in India and China. Lauren Carr (Queensland University of Technology, Australia) - Sorouh award for her paper Community Saadaqa: Cultural Understanding Through a Shared Sense of Space. Joyce Meng (Oxford University, UK) - Abu Dhabi Police award for her paper Internet Microphilanthropy for Education: Case Study on Givology. Lim Shu Xian Eunice (Management University, Singapore) - Ali & Sons award for her paper Water crisis: a nation s challenge, a global concern, a regional solution. Aki Nakanishi (University of South Florida, USA) - Al Faraa award for her paper Facilitating Youth Participatory Action Research: Reflections, Strategies & Applications. Ratish Raghavan (Waterloo University, Canada) - Al Masaood award for his paper Alternative Energy: Challenges and Possibilities. - Jennifer George Ibrahim Al Bastaki, a civil engineering student from Dubai Men s College, was one of 18 students from various Arab countries and the UK who participated in this year s World Economic Forum on the Middle East in Jordan, to discuss a range of issues with the region s business and political leaders. Like the other participating students, Ibrahim is a member of the British Council s Global Changemakers who have demonstrated a significant track record of achievements in their local communities through social entrepreneurship, community activism and voluntary work. He has served as a member of the student council and is active in voluntary organizations. The discussions focused on the Implications of the Global Economic Crisis for the Middle East: Home-grown Strategies for Success, as well as debating on a range of topics including opportunities for women in business, technology and innovation, e-media and social networking and role models for leadership. - Reem Saab Ibrahim Al Bastaki with fellow students at the World Economic Forum on the Middle East. Issue 9 June

4 News First western region cohort graduates Forging ties with secondary schools At a ceremony attended by distinguished guests HE Humood Al Mansouri, General Manager Western Region Municipality, HE Saeed Al Rasasi Al Mansouri, Under Secretary Diwan, Madinat Zayed, Mr Salem Eissa Al Mazrouei, Director SEHA-Western Region and Tim Smith, Associate Director Al Ain Colleges, HCT, 14 students graduated from the Work Readiness Program (WRP) at Madinat Zayed Men s College in April. The ceremony, attended by family and community members, and staff of Madinat Zayed Colleges, culminated in an announcement of the employment of five of the graduates by the Western Region Municipality and was followed by a further announcement of the employment of the remaining nine graduates by the Ministry of Interior. This record 100% employment rate for this first cohort of graduates from the HCT colleges in Al Gharbia signals the impact of the HCT on the western region and the marvelous support that the colleges and the WRP program receives from the community and its leaders. - Nial Farrell Al Ain secondary school representatives participate in professional development workshops hosted by Al Ain Men s College. The western region s first cohort has achieved a 100% employment rate. Volunteers spread goodwill Continuing their annual humanitarian work with Habitat for Humanity sponsored by PepsiCo International, Sharjah Women s College (SWC) faculty members Linda Habibi and Aysen Gilroy, along with PepsiCo representative Naeema Al Marzouqi, took 11 SWC students on another heartwarming trip to help build homes for two poor families in My Tho, Vietnam in April. The ladies helped spread compassion and goodwill as humanitarian ambassadors for their college and for the UAE. Upon their arrival in My Tho, the team received a warm welcome from a delegation from the Tien Giang Union of Friendship Organization. The trip was very successful in helping to establish closer relationships between the UAE and Vietnam as the build had extensive media coverage in Vietnam. In addition to the build, students also had a chance to gain cultural experiences in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and Hanoi by visiting the Vietnam War Museum, Ho Chi Minh s Reunification Palace, Ho Chi Minh s Mausoleum, the Vietnamese Art Museum, a handicapped lacquer factory, a water puppet show, a bonsai dinner cruise and an overnight boat cruise on Ha Long Bay. To gain a better understanding of practices of multinational companies operating in other countries, the students visited the PepsiCo bottling factory and attended a presentation given by Mr Vu Quoc Tuan, PepsiCo International VN Corporate Communication Manager. Students also had the distinct honor of meeting with Dr Nguyen Ngoc Hung, Deputy Director General International Cooperation Department at the Ministry of Education in Hanoi. The group enjoyed Dr Hung s very interesting presentation on the Vietnamese economy and on the challenges that the Vietnamese educational system is facing and how the government is working to provide better educational opportunities for Vietnamese students. - Joanne Rowe As part of the initiative to strengthen links between Al Ain Men s College (AAMC) and local secondary schools, staff at AAMC presented three workshops to a large group of representatives from the Al Ain secondary schools. Sessions were held for school counsellors, English teachers and librarians and aimed to increase understanding between the schools and the college and tighten the link as students move from secondary to post-secondary learners. The counselor workshop served as an informal needs analysis for future workshops with participants sharing experiences of student problems and needs. The overriding aim was to look for ways to increase student support in the schools and college. Group work activities covered a wide range of issues but particular attention was given to the problems of self-management, low motivation and the lack of focus and career planning in male students. Practical workshops to focus on these areas are planned for the next academic year. The classroom management session for English teachers took two approaches. The first focused on developing effective classroom management processes whilst delivering lively, imaginative and entertaining content and activities. The second session focused on the essential relationship between vocabulary and reading. Participants looked at ways to develop the learner s basic vocabulary levels by using word cards and how to develop appropriate reading materials to match learner needs. The librarians were given an overview and virtual tour of the information resources and services available in a well appointed Learning Resource Centre. The workshop included a description of the resources in detail followed by a classroom activity on developing learning skills and learning styles. The response from both the participants and the presenters was very positive with both college and school groups feeling they had achieved a greater understanding of the problems faced by students as they make the transition into adult learners. - Valerie McGrath and Mark Suares Sir General Peter de la Billieres (centre), Commander-in-Chief in the Gulf War, is pictured with HCT Vice Chancellor Dr Tayeb Kamali and Abu Dhabi Men s College director Dr Simon Jones on a recent visit to the college. 4

5 Student Success Peers vote for new president Sharjah Men s College Student Council president Khalfan Hassan Al Matrooshi was recently elected by HCT Student Council representatives from every campus to be the new HCT Student Council president for the next academic year. Khalfan is the first Sharjah Higher Colleges of Technology student to hold this position, and he doesn t think for a moment he will be the last. This is a tremendous honor and blessing for me to serve as the HCT Student Council president, Khalfan said. I cherish the opportunity to give back to my nation because it has given me so much. I look forward to working with the other council members because I feel that we have a good team. His main role will be to advocate on behalf of the students and help promote communication between students of HCT. He will also chair the meetings, handle correspondence and act as the official spokesman for the HCT Student Council. I will have other duties such as reporting to the HCT Policy Council on the activities and financial affairs of the HCT Student Council. It will be challenging but I will try my best to make a difference. - Dr Hilton Kolbe Documentary takes first place at Gulf Film Festival Ebrahim Ustadi. Applied Communications student Ebrahim Ustadi has walked away with the first prize in the Student Documentary category of the Gulf Film Festival. It is the first time ever that a student from Dubai Men s College has been awarded such an honour. Ebrahim s winning documentary is titled Ahmadiya. The 13-minute English language film, which was shown at the Grand Festival Cinema on April 12th and 15th, features the development of Al Ahmadiya, the first formal school in Dubai, and chronicles the evolution of modern education in the city. Guy Brookbank, an Applied Communications faculty member said everyone at DMC was pleased Ebrahim had won the award. What started off as a student project has now become an acclaimed documentary and that is certainly something to be very proud of, Guy Said. The Gulf Film Festival, which takes place in Dubai every year in April, is a non-profit cultural event that aims to celebrate the highest standards of Gulf cinema. - Wendy Fox Ayesha s optimism is a winner HCT outstanding students and graduates prove time and time again that we should have faith in our Emirati youth who continue to make colossal efforts towards taking more innovative initiatives and implementing more remarkable projects that become a source of pride for the HCT and the nation. Ayesha Al Ateeqi is one such student. Reem Saab spoke with Ayesha, an enthusiastic Abu Dhabi Women s College student, who submitted a winning paper at Education Without Borders (EWB) 2009 on the past, present and future of education in the UAE. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Applied Science in Education (Teaching English in Schools). She was also selected with other HCT students to undertake the Mohamed Bin Zayed Al University Scholars Program. How do you view the quality of school education in the UAE? I am optimistic as we are a young country and naturally the journey is still long. In the past, the UAE only had military schools for men and Quran education. Girls had no place or consideration. We have surely made remarkable progress over the years. What the UAE school system needs at present is the recruitment of highly qualified teachers. It is also necessary to customize academic curricula to cater to the specific needs of nationals. The ideal way to achieve this is to conduct local research where the findings will help us develop a curriculum that suits the needs of national youth and UAE culture. So far, we have been applying imported education in bits and pieces, yet every country across the globe has developed its own school system and curriculum. Would you prefer to send your child to a government or private school in the UAE? Why? I have a toddler son and I will send him to a private school. I believe that government schools in the UAE still adopt the learning-by-rote method. These schools have to achieve more progress by recruiting more qualified teachers and using effective, modern instruction techniques. Private schools are more equipped to encourage student interaction and foster personal growth. was wrong. Consequently, they become passive learners. I would develop student analytical and critical thinking skills. I firmly believe that every student needs to learn to speak his/her mind under any circumstances. Do you feel that it is necessary to pursue your master s degree overseas rather than in the UAE? Studying abroad has a marketing value for recruitment in prestigious companies. Students holding degrees from abroad are perceived as more capable and highly skilled even if this does not reflect reality. Nevertheless, I will continue my studies in New York University which will open in the UAE in In the meantime, I plan to work after graduation either in a school or in a research center. I might choose to work in research because I could play a vital role in making changes and having an impact on policy-making. What is the ideal teaching style that you will be likely to use in the workplace? The ideal teaching style is one that promotes critical thinking and stimulates a love for learning. I am against the approach of enhancing extrinsic motivation, like placing emphasis on grades in measuring performance. What is essential is intrinsic motivation with a focus on effort and improvement over the years. Standard Chartered Bank, proud sponsor of the HCT Foundation If you were designated as an agent of change in the field of education, what would be the first thing you would change or add to high schools in the UAE? I would definitely promote the right of freedom of expression among students. In government schools students are taught to accept what they are told without questioning even if the teacher In your opinion, what are the special features that every teacher should have? An exemplary teacher would dedicate himself/herself to unlocking student talents, working with a great deal of patience and enthusiasm, creating an effective learning environment, catering to the individual needs of every student, and being a role model. Issue 9 June

6 Global Highlights Phi Theta Kappa delegates attend annual convention In mid-april, a distinguished group of Fujairah Women s College (FWC) Phi Theta Kappa members attended the 91st Annual Convention in Grapevine, Texas. This year s theme was, Leading the Way and FWC students undoubtedly lead the way! Phi Theta Kappa Director Rod Risley gave the students a very special VIP introduction during the opening ceremonies by emphasizing the service they have provided to our chapter, Beta Omicron Psi. He also commended the Higher Colleges of Technology for sending such a large delegation this year. Chapter President, Mayar Mohamed Sabaah Ali Kaabi, proudly carried the UAE flag during the opening ceremony. Amongst the many sessions attended by the delegation, was an inspiring keynote speech by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Opportunities abound for students to implement and apply the many ideas gleaned from workshops and our delegation is already making plans. Fujairah Women s College students returned invigorated and steadfast in their belief in the value of an HCT education and the commitment the UAE has made to it. - Sule Duzgun Fujairah Women s College students lead the way in Texas, US. Engineering team tests off road skills in US Discovering another world A team of engineering students from Abu Dhabi Men s College (ADMC) travelled to Oregon, USA, to participate in the Baja Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Challenge from 7 to 10 May. The team had to design and fabricate an all terrain vehicle and put it through its paces in the competition. On the first day, the judges inspected the vehicles looking at design, safety, appearance, and manufacturability. The next day entailed short performance events such as rock crawling, drag racing and suspension and traction. Finally, the competition culminated in a four hour grueling endurance race. The ADMC team competed against 94 other teams from the United States and around the globe and finished in 59th place. The project was funded by the Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations. Team captain Shaheen Al Bishr said it was a fantastic opportunity. It was a very valuable experience to the team, not just simply taking part in such an international competition, but the learning and exchanging experience, Shaheen said. But most importantly, we managed to promote Abu Dhabi and its jewels as the capital of our country. Shaheen was joined in the USA by his co-captain, Adel Abdulmunim Al Kindi, driver Adel Al Ali, codriver Battie Hamad Al Mazrouei and adviser Salah Al Awlaqi. - Susan O Brien Aisha, Ameera and Fatima enjoy meeting children in South Africa. Four students from the Applied Communications department at Abu Dhabi Women s College (ADWC) recently went on a stimulating and educational trip to Cape Town, South Africa. This was the second time that ADWC students, with the generous support of the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, have been able to attend Design Indaba 2009, a leading design conference. Design Indaba, held annually in Cape Town, attracts pioneering designers from all over the world. The indaba (meaning conference or meeting in the Zulu language) is a platform through which young and existing designers can showcase their talents to a world audience. For the ADWC students, the trip to Cape Town was a platform for meeting other designers, seeing how other people live, and getting inspired to change the world! The ADWC students had a unique opportunity to listen to presentations by some of the world s most renowned design professionals, getting inspired by their work and even asking them for advice. The trip to South Africa was more than just a visit to the conference, however. The days before the conference were spent exploring Cape Town and its surroundings. Cape Town has a rich history, and the students took the opportunity to broaden their horizon by learning about different cultures, both African and European. Students talked to locals about the injustice endured by the country s majority during the time of apartheid, and, beyond that, they experienced the rich cultural heritage this part of the world has to offer. - Philip Toews Graduates experience Australian culture Shamma and a Melbourne school boy. Three graduates from the Bachelor of Education program at Ras Al Khaimah Women s College are currently studying at University of Melbourne as part of a one-year Master of Education degree in TESOL. Shamma Hamdoon Al Naqbi, Asma Mohamed Essa Shaker and Omayma Saeed Mubarak Al Muhairi will be fully sponsored by the Saqr Educational Trust Fund in Ras Al Khaimah. His Highness Sheikh Saqr bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has graciously approved funding from the Sheikh Saqr Education Trust to provide Higher Colleges of Technology graduates from Ras Al Khaimah the opportunity to continue their higher education. His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qassimi, the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, recommended that these three graduates be given the chance to study in Melbourne. Following is an excerpt from Shamma s first update: So far studying in Australia is interesting, different, and without a doubt an experience that I will treasure forever. Moreover, studying here has introduced me to new horizons and given me great experiences that I will remember for my whole life. - Norma MacSween 6

7 Global Highlights Students benefit from third Huawei training program The Huawei training program was hailed a huge success by HCT s 18 student participants. Khadija Al-Ameri. Solid foundations the key to international study As reported in the January 2009 edition of Al Rawi, Khadija Al-Ameri has been studying at the University of Paris-Sorbonne. The Abu Dhabi Women s College (ADWC) 2008 Bachelor of Education graduate recently returned to the UAE and gave Al Rawi an update on her experiences. Khadija considers herself changed by initiating her graduate studies in France. Describing her experience so far, she describes her adventure as challenging, but worth it. Khadija returned to the Emirates recently to carry out a project for TOTAL, a world leader in the energy industry who sponsor her post-hct graduate study. Fortunately, one of her major efforts while here involves educating Abu Dhabi school children about the oil and gas business. Khadija s HCT background in education is helping her carry out the task. We want our students to have an idea about what s going on in the energy sector, she said. Our economy depends on oil. She is helping promote TOTAL s new website aimed at 10- to 18-year-olds, www. planete-energies.com, now online in both French and English, with an Arabic version of the site in progress. Khadija, who is pursuing a master s degree in International Human Resource Management (IHRM), recently reflected on what she has learned in the first few months in France. The culture is different. It s just their way, she says. Culture shock is normal. The best response is just to be positive, be patient, and try to adapt. And don t compare yourself with others! In fact, her experience with culture shock actually supports her studies in IHRM, since multinational corporations who move their employees internationally need professionals to support their people as they adjust to new surroundings. It s very important to train people about the culture where they will be living, she says. The UAE is full of expatriates, so there s definitely a future here for IHRM. Another lesson Khadija brings back from France is the importance of learning other languages. Although she has been learning French, her IHRM course is carried out in English. My years at the HCT taught me good English, and I have had no problems studying my master s program in English. In fact, besides English and French, it is very common for Europeans to speak several languages. I encourage everyone to learn languages. All my classmates speak more than three languages. An important difference between her education in France and her education at HCT relates to the balance between support and independence. In France, she says, You have to be independent. You have to get everything transportation, visa papers, school books, everything - on your own. In contrast, her teachers from the HCT have provided a support for her, even while she was in France. I m still in touch with some of my HCT teachers. They are really like a family, always there, no matter what. Timings in the Sorbonne master s program are long. From 8am to 8pm during the work week, and half of Saturday. The good side of these intense hours is that Khadija is scheduled to earn her degree in December I m definitely coming back to the UAE after graduation, she promises. I m doing this all for my country! - Karen Marie Belnap Eighteen HCT students have participated in a one-week training program at Huawei Technologies in Schenzhen, China from 25 April to 2 May The computer networking and information technology students, from the Abu Dhabi Men s, Dubai Men s and Dubai Women s Colleges, learned about the latest innovations in the telecommunications industry during the training program, which was fully funded by Huawei Technologies. The Datacom Product Customized Training involved a tour of Huawei s data centre, training centre and product expo, and focused on areas including protocol and subnet planning, routing protocols and ethernet technology. Abu Dhabi Men s College student Mohammed Ali Omar said he learned a great deal from the training program. I learned about Huawei equipments, like phone, switches, routers and other devices and it was great to see the biggest networking company in China and to know their products, he said. Tariq Ali, a Dubai Men s College student, had an unforgettable time in China. The networks topics were very useful for me to refresh my memory of the networks fundamentals, which is obviously crucial, Tariq said. China is so organized and clean, considering the huge population, and the hospitality and the respect that the Chinese people have to their guests is what I describe as very valuable. HCT Vice Chancellor Dr Tayeb Kamali congratulated the students on being selected to participate in the program. This is the third training program our students have participated in, thanks to the generosity of Huawei, Dr Kamali said. This is an excellent opportunity for our students to expand their knowledge, and get more practical exposure in the technologies provided by Huawei. Upon their return, the students shared their experiences with the Consulate General of the People s Republic of China in Dubai, Mr Lin Jianxin, and Huawei Vice President, Middle East region, Hero Wang. - Jennifer George Broadening horizons in New York Students from Ras Al Khaimah (RKWC) and Al Ain Women s colleges (AAWC) are participating in the Near East and South Asia Undergraduate Exchange Program (NESA UGRAD). Shaikha Salem Mubarak Fayroz Othman Aal Ali and Shaikha Saeed Humood Ali Humood Al Naqbi, both Higher Diploma students from RKWC, and Tuiba Mughir Al Darmaki who has graduated with a Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Management from AAWC are studying at the State University of New York (SUNY) in Cobleskill, New York. The program, administered by the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs of the United States Department of State, provides opportunities for first, second, third, and fourth-year undergraduate students from the Middle East, North Africa and South Asia to study full-time in the United States for one semester or one academic year. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the student, and included paid tuition for study coupled with community service opportunities within the United States. All students were very excited at the prospects of broadening their horizons and gaining invaluable experience from their stay in the USA. Shaikha said she was learning every minute she spent in the US. Americans are nice people and many of them are polite and they respect other cultures and religions, Shaikha said. The experiences that I have gained in four months in the US, I wouldn t have gained in four years in the UAE. - Fauzan Qazi Issue 9 June

8 Community Focus Murals brighten up hospital playground for children Al Ain Women s College and Oasis Hospital have joined artistic forces to produce an exciting, permanent mural display to benefit the children s playground at the hospital. The work was unveiled by the artists themselves at Oasis Hospital. The eight large murals, which were conceived, designed and painted by many students over the past year, depict scenes of Emirati life and the folklore of the Gulf region. The murals are a generous, benevolent gift by the Al Ain Women s College at the request of Oasis Hospital. At a reception held at Oasis Hospital, Beverley Baxter and Dawn Seddon, who oversaw the mural project, gave a brief overview of how the project was initiated by Elizabeth Printy at Oasis Hospital and completed by the students. Elizabeth then shared with the audience the series of steps that lead to her vision for the project. Al Ain Women s College students unveiled each painting at the playground, one by one, telling a bit about the concept for each scene. Brightly colored walls that corresponded to the murals made the perfect backdrop for each scene which will surely be loved and admired by all who visit the playground, especially the children. - Brooks Glett A student unveils one of the paintings which will feature in the Oasis Hospital playground. Zuwaina Khalfan Al Badi (left) and Hamsa Saleh Al Ammari take charge of the Al Ain Colleges Human Resources department. Leading the way in Emiratisation The Al Ain Colleges most recent initiative has been the creation of a human resources (HR) department with UAE nationals taking charge of the entire operation. The team is led by the highly qualified and experienced Hamsa Saleh Al Ammari, senior HR officer, who manages all HR processes and functions between the men s and women s colleges. She graduated with a master s degree in Strategic Human Resource Management from the University of Wollongong, Australia, and is now pursuing a doctorate in Human Resource Management from Capella University, Minnesota, US. Hamsa describes herself as a people person with a strong focus on human resource management as her ideal career path. Her education has been based on all aspects of Human Resources (HR) and consequently her interest in this career is a combination of her experience, skills, personality and qualifications. The second member of the HR team is Zuwaina Khalfan Al Badi. Hamsa and Zuwaina are both Al Ain Women s College graduates and are proud to give back to the HCT Al Ain Colleges and the community, the knowledge, skills and results-driven strategies they accumulated during their time as students. Their greatest satisfaction is derived from assisting and answering staff requests and exceeding the latter s expectations with dedicated and timely service delivery. As a team they have much respect for each other and work in an ambience of complete understanding of their roles. Brent Mills, director of the Al Ain Colleges, is proud of this team of Emirati ladies running the HR department. The Emiratisation of this department in the Al Ain Colleges is a first for the HCT, Mr Mills said. It is also significant that the ladies are graduates of Al Ain Women s College, which speaks volumes about our suite of programs and teaching in Al Ain. It also demonstrates the Al Ain colleges commitment to Emiratisation as a community service. - Mark Suares 8

9 Star Graduates Living proof that perseverance makes everything possible Climbing the corporate ladder to success Al Rawi s Reem Saab spoke with a fascinating achiever, Dr Lamees Abdul Majeed Al Qaisi, who graduated from the accounting program at Abu Dhabi Women s College in She was granted a scholarship from the Ministry of Higher Education to pursue a master s degree, and received her MBA from Derby University in England in She was granted another scholarship and earned her PhD in Management Development in She is currently working as a Manager of Operational Risk in the Risk Management Division of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD). As a 1991 alumnus, how do you describe the evolution of the HCT over the years? I was amazed when I recently attended International Women s Day at Abu Dhabi Women s College. When I was a student at this college we were only six girls in the classroom attending classes in two villas. I was among the first batch of graduates of 24 girls. There were only three majors: Accounting, which was my major, Management and Office Administration. At the time, we had no Foundations program and no laboratories. We only had PCs and in addition to theoretical study we had work placement. How did your academic preparation at the HCT help you after graduation? When I went to England to pursue my MBA, I applied to Derby University. The HCT management prepared for me a booklet describing the assignments, projects and accomplishments for each semester of study, which I presented to a panel of three professors. They were satisfied with the coursework, especially that the number of hours completed in the higher diploma program exceeded those required for a bachelor degree. I was accepted and earned my MBA within one year. Statistics show that in the UAE, and the Middle East in general, men have greater access to high status executive positions while a limited number of women occupy key positions. What solutions do you suggest to this issue? I am convinced that a big part of this issue lies in the hands of women. They need to be ambitious, committed, open and eager to pave their way to high ranking positions. They do need to make colossal efforts more than men, who have already been given the opportunity to prove themselves since the beginning of time. One thing I am sure of is that the UAE government has given generous support to women and many jobs are available and open to women. I just came to know that the first national female judge took the oath of office in Dubai Courts. HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashed Al Maktoum said that such a step would pave the way for national female graduates to join the judiciary. How do UAE banks and employers in general treat their female employees? The percentage of national female employees in the banking sector is higher than that of national male employees. In addition, there is no discrimination in pay for men and women in the same positions. In my opinion, banks prefer to attract national women because women have gained a reputation in banks as committed and stable fast learners. On the other hand, national men undergo intensive training in banks for a period of time and move on to more competitive offers as they have more options and opportunities in diverse fields. The disadvantage is that the pay is less in the banking sector compared to government and oil companies. What is a sure way to reach the top? The key words are confidence, commitment, and belief in yourself. Time management is also essential. Reaching the top is possible despite any hindrances or problems that may come our way. There is always a way to beat circumstances and work your way around any problem. What is your message to national women expressed in a slogan? Perseverance makes everything possible. I have achieved remarkable success throughout my life on all fronts, as a wife, mother and career woman. I still have a big appetite for education. I urge every woman to work hard and follow her dreams, just like I motivate my daughters by example. Dr Lamees Abdul Majeed Al Qaisi Manager of Operational Risk in the Risk Management Division of the National Bank of Abu Dhabi (NBAD). Marwan Sultan Al Sabbagh Marwan Sultan Al Sabbagh is among the third cohort to graduate from the Higher Colleges of Technology Engineering division with distinction in Higher Diploma in Avionics from Dubai Men s College in Now the Vice President of Projects and Connection Services in Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), Marwan is a 21st century man who has joined other promising fellow nationals in preparing Dubai to meet the demands of the future. Al Rawi s Reem Saab has the privilege of reporting the insights of this star graduate. What motivated you to enter a field that is not related to your specialization Avionics? The electrical engineering courses I studied at the HCT are related to the power projects I now undertake. I did apply to the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority after graduation, but I was requested to wait for eight months for a suitable position. I found it hard to wait idly for such a long time and fortunately the opportunity provided by DEWA was tempting. And here I am, happy and satisfied. Please tell us about the traces of your HCT experience in your professional life? The special feature of the HCT was the interaction it allowed between students and the faculty and staff from different cultures, which I found appealing and useful having studied in government schools that were limited in scope. This exposure helped me deal with foreigners with great ease during my frequent business travels. Luckily, I also acquired advanced English language skills at the HCT, and now all my business affairs in DEWA are conducted in English. I am still fond of my HCT teachers who made learning an exciting experience, and I remember the motivational words Dr Tayeb Kamali said to the avionics students: You are the Top Guns. HE Sheikh Nahayan s words are also etched in my memory. He stressed that the graduates have been provided with a passport, yet they now need to get the stamps as they embark on their journey. What is DEWA s role in promoting environmental issues? DEWA has played an effective role in promoting the green building concept and enforced special regulations. We have a special department responsible for environmental aspects, organizing exhibitions inside and outside the UAE and conservation campaigns. The green building regulations contribute to reducing utility bills, using energy and water efficiently and reducing waste and pollution. In fact, our logo represents the sea, sun and earth. What are the criteria and requirements set by DEWA for the recruitment of national graduates? We follow the Human Resources Department policies in this regard. A percentage is determined for each category and rank, for example the number of engineers, section heads, and new graduates needed. We mostly need engineers and the sought-after features are enthusiasm, sharpness and a strong personality. We have introduced walkin interviews for nationals, which allows any national to submit his/her CV, and those found qualified and suitable for the announced positions may be hired on the spot. continued page Issue 9 June

10 AL FARA A GROUP HCT-100 Club HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology formalises partnerships with (centre) Sami Abi Esber, President MDS UAE Holdings, (left) HE Abdallah Rashid Al Otaiba, Chairman Department of Transport and (right) Tawfic S Khoury, Executive Vice President of Consolidated Contractors Company. The HCT Foundation 100 Club strives to support HCT s commitment to excellence in student learning and continual quality improvement. The funds raised directly support the betterment of student learning through excellence in teaching, scholarships and need-based support, as well as improved learning technologies and physical resources. Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Entrepreneurship Programme Sorouh Dean of Real Estate Management Barclays Dean of Banking and Finance UPP Chair in Printing and Publishing Technology / Programs in Printing and Engineering Aldar Dean of Business Studies Al Jaber Dean of Construction Engineering In less than a year, the HCT Foundation 100 Club has 22 distinguished members who have contributed over 40 million AED. ADBIC Dean in Industrial Engineering Dubai Islamic Bank Chair in Islamic Finance Toshiba Chair of Mobile Computing Dubai Municipality Chair in Structural Engineering We are extremely proud of the strong and ongoing relationships with our many partners from private industry, government and the community sector and it is with the greatest of honor that we recognize their contribution and support. AL FARA A GROUP CONSTRUCTION PROPERTIES INDUSTRIES Al Fara a Professor of Civil Engineering TRA Professor in Information and Communication Technology Union National Bank Professor of Financial Services HSBC Professor of Financial Services Standard Chartered Professor in Corporate Finance National Center for Documentation & Research Professor of Archival Studies Department of Transport Professor in Transportation Engineering Huawei Professor in Information and Communication Technology Emirates Computers Professor in Information and Communication Technology Juniper Networks Technology Lab Holdings Funding and equipment to enhance Information and Communication Technology facilities Abu Dhabi Police Professor of Business Consolidated Contractors Company hctfoundation.hct.ac.ae 10

11 Academic Highlights Cisco recognizes innovation with award Mr Daryle Niedermayer, President of CIPS Saskatchewan in Canada, with HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan. IT programs impress The Higher Diploma and Bachelor of Applied Science programs offered by the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) have been successfully accredited by the Canadian Information Processing Society (CIPS). The CIPS Information Systems and Technology Accreditation Council (ISTAC) has accredited all five Information Technology programs for three years, which is the maximum possible period for newly accredited programs. Chair of the CIPS Canadian Council of IT Professionals, Greg Lane, said the programs help to create graduates that are knowledgeable Information Technology practitioners. Each of the five approved programs will help to ensure our profession can continue to pull from a pool of highly Tridib Chatterji of Dubai Women s College has been named a regional recipient for the 2009 Association of Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) Teaching Excellence Award. ACBSP recognizes individuals each year who exemplify teaching excellence in the classroom. Chatterji will be honored, along with other regional recipients, at the ACBSP 2009 Annual Conference in June in San Antonio, US. As a regional recipient, Chatterji is now a candidate for the international award. I m pleased at receiving this award and at the chance to represent HCT at an international conference, Tridib said. I wish to thank Dr Howard Reed, Jamie Stewart and Dr Monica Gallant for their support and previous award winners Rao KVN, Syed Bashir and Maura Blease for their guidance during the award application process. Dr Monica Gallant, Chair of Business Programs at Dubai Women s College, said Tridib was known for his innovative approach to teaching and his focus on the development of entrepreneurial skills. Last year, he facilitated the skilled candidates worldwide. In addition, the program speeds up the qualification process for those seeking the Information Systems Professional (ISP) designation, Greg said. HCT Vice Chancellor Dr Tayeb Kamali was very pleased with the accreditation. This is a milestone for the HCT as the accreditation for the Information Technology programs reaffirms HCT world class standards for education in Information Technology programs, Dr Kamali said. Students graduating from the accredited programs will qualify for the CIPS pre-professional Candidate membership class, which provides a route to ISP, an internationally recognized professional designation. Teaching excellence - Peter Scanlan interaction of the students with an external group called Injaz where the students were expected to create their own business, Dr Gallant said. Under his guidance, the students established an Exposition that not only made a profit but also enabled local female entrepreneurs to showcase their talents. This group won the UAE competition and Chatterji chaperoned the group to the regional competition in Jordan. Douglas Viehland, ACBSP executive director, said the organization had a mission to develop, promote and recognize best practices that contribute to continuous improvement of business education. Recognition of teaching excellence is one way we achieve this goal, Douglas said. ACBSP currently has more than 585 members in 25 countries and eight regions. Dubai Women s College is part of International Council Region 8, a regional division of ACBSP, representing member institutions located outside the US. - Reem Saab (from left) Nevine El Kadi, Cisco Networking Academy Regional Director, Hassan Khabbazeh, Dubai Men s College IT chair, Mu men Suliman, Cisco Networking Academy Regional Manager, and Munther Al Hassan, faculty, at the awards ceremony. Dubai Men s College (DMC) has once again broken new ground by being chosen as the Best Local Academy in the Gulf and Pakistan Region for 2008 by Cisco. In 2000, DMC became one of the first educational institutions in the country to offer the Cisco Networking Academy Program. Since then, the IT Department at DMC has successfully delivered Information Technology Networking courses to Diploma and Higher Diploma students, as well as a Bachelor s course in Computer Networking Technology. Dr Bob Richards, Director of Dubai Men s College, expressed his appreciation to the Cisco Networking Academy Program for recognizing the innovative work of DMC s IT department. To date, 95 Diploma students, 154 Higher Diploma students, and 60 Bachelor s students have graduated from DMC in networking and employers are consistently impressed by the depth of knowledge that DMC networking graduates have in their specialist subject. - Wendy Fox Diploma program earns international recognition Al Ain Colleges director with local primary school children who will reap the benefits of the Class Assistant program. Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and audit visit at Al Ain Women s College earlier this year, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has formally accredited the Higher Colleges of Technology s Class Assistant Program, currently being offered by Al Ain Women s and Fujairah Women s Colleges. One of the most respected and longestablished accreditation agencies in the world, the SQA is the national body in Scotland for the development, accreditation, assessment and certification of qualifications other than degrees. The HCT Class Assistant diploma was designed in response to a need highlighted by UAE education authorities and schools. In signing the MoU, the HCT and the SQA have agreed to explore collaboration in a number of areas, including accreditation of selected learning programs, curriculum support for specific skills areas and collaboration in all areas of program development, delivery and quality assurance. Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the HCT, hopes that this mutual cooperation with the SQA will serve, support and emphasize the various educational initiatives taking place in the United Arab Emirates. Brent Mills, Director of Al Ain Colleges said: The Class Assistant Program is the first of its kind for the UAE. We are very happy to have this program quality assured by such a reputable authority. - Michael O Brien Issue 9 June

12 Student Life Tale of first female horse riding team premieres Academy unlocks leadership potential A documentary film about the six female horse riders who formed the UAE s first female equestrian team, Arabyana, are riding on a wave of praise following the premiere screening of the film in April. The film, titled Our Right to Ride, won the 2008 Tamaiz Award, and was screened at the Atlantis Palm Dubai under the Royal Patronage of Her Highness Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, the wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister, Ruler of Dubai. The screening was sponsored by Hydra Properties, Dr Suliman Al Fahim and the United Nations. The film was directed by Arabyana president Hanan Abdulla Al Muhairi, and is also scheduled to be shown in the United States in August It is a human interest feature film documentary about the six female riders who formed Arabyana. It examines how the United Arab Emirates society sees women who participate in equestrian sports. The film also explores other aspects of the issue, such as from the medical point of view, the Islamic perspective, the royal and important figures perceptions, and the riders families viewpoint. Six dynamic young Emirati women from Dubai Women s College who share the same interest and passion for equestrian sport founded Arabyana in November 2006 and are the pioneers of female horse riding teams in the United Arab Emirates. - Dr Hanan Hairab Al Ain Men s College students perform as a team on one of the Leadership Academy tasks. More than 200 enthusiastic HCT students participated in a leadership program which took place from February until May. The Leadership Academy is an initiative of the Emirates Foundation s Tawteen Program and has been designed to develop leadership and life skills in young Emiratis. This year, up to 700 Emirati students and graduates will attend more than 20 experiential leadership camps in Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi. Al Ain Men s College Associate Dean Centre of Excellence for English, Doug Henderson, who participated in the Team leader training camp held earlier this year, said the program involved leadership and team building activities. When the students return from the camp, they have two weeks to write and submit a short, reflective assignment on what they learned which could earn them a Level 2 Certificate in Team Leading from the Institute of Leadership and Management, the UK s largest management training body, Mr Henderson said. Having participated in the program, I can truly say that there is so much to be gained by participating. It is a fantastic program. Launched in 2007 as an initiative of the Emirates foundation, Tawteen works with a number of private sector partners, including BP and Aldar, to help young Emiratis unlock their potential and build career pathways to private sector employment. In order to meet this objective, Tawteen implements and manages a number of different development projects, which aim to address specific gaps in private sector employment and the unique employment needs and challenges that exist within the UAE. Owing to the significant interest in the camps, Tawteen has already developed plans to expand the project and is now looking to involve Emirati secondary school students and new graduates already in the workplace. - Jennifer George Tree planting marks Earth Day In celebration of Earth Day on 22 April, 25 trees were planted at Fujairah Men s College (FMC). The Emirates Environmental Group provided the trees including Neem, Date Palm, Sidra and Ghaf. Mr Philippe Moutaubin, General Manager of Ibis Hotel Al Barsha Dubai provided a 30-person crew to set up the planting. FMC students, faculty and staff all helped get the trees into the ground. 12

13 Education chief stresses need for reform Events HE Sheikih Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan opens Counselling Arabia Counselling Arabia inspires debates on top issues More than 230 counsellors, career advisers and human development professionals gathered at Abu Dhabi Women s College in May to participate in the annual Counselling Arabia conference. Under the theme Transitions: Evolutions of Client and Practitioner, the conference initiated three days of workshops and presentations from a local and global context, including visitors from Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Greece, New Zealand, Canada, the US, and Germany. The conference workshops inspired debate on themes such as counselling across different cultures, assessment tools used in the Gulf region, and meeting emerging labor market needs. His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology, welcomed attendees during the opening ceremony. Special guests included keynote speakers Carol Ann Fried, from Vancouver, Canada, who addressed the question of how to successfully negotiate transitions. Dr Nora Alarifi Pharaon, from New Jersey, USA, spoke about cultural competency in mental health care. Both women also lead training sessions on the conference s final day. ADWC Director Dr Bradley Cook said the event brought excellent networking and learning opportunities to staff and students. - Karen Marie Belnap Climbing to success...from page 9 Which future post do you visualize for yourself? The sky is the limit! I am currently pursuing my MBA by correspondence for the purpose of enhancing my knowledge. It will not lead to a salary increase or a promotion, but I am driven by my love for learning and ambition. I am proud to say that I started off as a graduate trainee when I joined DEWA 15 years ago, and moved up to the post of Distribution Construction Engineer for three years, was thereafter promoted to the position of section head, followed by deputy department head, and right before I became Vice President of Projects and Connection Services, I occupied the position of department head. What is the secret of your success and do you have a daily affirmation that you repeat to yourself? The key elements are passion for what you do, sincere efforts, and approaching each day as if it were your first day. My daily affirmation is: Time is the essence of life. I also love to repeat HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum s words: The mind is the maker and creator of ideas. Education in the UAE has been in a state of constant reform for the past 38 years and is still continuing to improve with 70 new initiatives currently underway, Mr Ali Mehad Al Suwaidi, Assistant Undersecretary, Ministry of Education told a teacher s conference in Sharjah recently. Mr Al Suwaidi was addressing the 7 th annual Teacher Education Conference at Sharjah Women s College. Higher Colleges of Technology education faculty teachers attended the conference with the theme of Practising Innovation in Education in UAE Schools. We are in a constant state of reform, Mr Al Suwaidi said. The Gulf area is facing continual change and this is especially in the financial sector. This expansion in the financial sector has in turn put pressure on the educational institutions to provide the necessary skills for employment. Mr Al Suwaidi said the Ministry regarded reform as the cornerstone of education. Already there are 730 government schools and 430 private school operating in the UAE serving 280,000 public students and 375,000 private students. He warned that with increasing numbers of school students, there is constant pressure to employ teachers from outside the UAE. There were now more than 23,000 teachers (from left) Shafaa Omar Al Menhali, Dr Lamees Al Qaisi, 1991 graduate, Mariam Al Ketbi, 2008 graduate, HE Ms Najla Al-Awadhi, Sara Al Mehairi, 2007 graduate and Dr Bradley Cook, ADWC Director. Celebrating exceptional women Abu Dhabi Women s College (ADWC) hosted a multifaceted celebration of International Women s Day in March, including events promoting women in business, women s everyday lives across various cultures, art produced by women, and women s health. The college received many special guests for the occasion, including alumnae, community supporters, embassy representatives, and Federal National Council member Her Excellency Ms Najla Al-Awadhi. HE Ms Al-Awadhi is also the vice-ceo of Dubai Media Incorporated and General Manager of Dubai One TV. HE Ms Al-Awadhi delivered the ceremony s keynote speech, in which she emphasized the example of Khadija, the Prophet Muhammad s (pbuh) wife. Invoking her faith in Islam, she told students to work hard and do great things. She was followed at the podium by two ADWC alumnae, Dr Lamees Al Qaisi, from the college s first graduating class in 1991, and Mariam Al Ketbi, a recent graduate. They spoke with enthusiasm about the positive impact their college experience has had Mr Ali Mehad Al Suwaidi, Assistant Undersecretary, Ministry of Education. working in the UAE with less than seven per cent of them being males. Plans were already in place to correct this imbalance and women teachers have been given increased roles in the education system. He also stressed the need for teachers to become better qualified. Teachers are now expected to have at least a Bachelor s training and they are encouraged to undertake further academic studies at Master s and Doctorate levels in an effort to improve the standards of teaching in UAE schools. - Dr Hilton Kolbe on their careers. Several embassies from places as different as Germany and Korea sent representatives to share interactive displays about their women s cultures. These women showed students their traditional women s dresses, items of jewelry, and other women s artifacts. The ADWC students, in their turn, ran the Women in the UAE booth, demonstrating practices such as a traditional Emirati welcome. In an additional display of Emirati women s culture, the College s Student Representative Council organized more than a dozen stalls in which talented students sold their own handmade or hand-decorated items, including tablecloths, ribbons, and bags. Dozens of art works were on show at the Women and Art zone. An exhibit of outstanding works of photography, painting on silk, and painting on canvas, all done by College alumnae, decorated the College s main reception area. - Karen Marie Belnap Issue 9 June

14 Our HCT Far East meets Middle East Abdulla Al Mansouri with one of the Japanese guests. Ras Al Khaimah Men s College (RKMC) students welcomed a group of seven Japanese graduate students to its campus during its second annual Environment Day. The visitors were part of the Japan-GCC Association of Students (JGAS), an organization set up by Takushi Sasada, who led the students on their trip to the UAE. All seven students are currently studying for Doctorate degrees at prestigious universities in Japan. A recent RKMC bachelor degree graduate and current IT staff member, Matar Al Shamsi, Al Rawi Fast Five was excited to meet with the group. It was really great to talk to the visitors. Having visited Japan myself with our Bachelor s program last year, we were able to connect very easily with them. Takushi set up JGAS because he has an interest in the UAE and other Gulf countries and found that many other Japanese students share the same interest. However, as it is very difficult to meet UAE nationals in Japan, they decided to contact colleges in the UAE and plan their first trip. Mohamed K Al Qaydi Diploma Year One Program, IT Ras Al Khaimah Men s College - Michael Gallagher What do you do to relax/unwind? I like to sit on the beach and enjoy the sea air. If you were an animal, what would you be? I would like to be a horse because they re fast. What has been your most memorable vacation? I went Qatar and had really fun days there with a lot of friends. If you could go back in time and tell your younger self something, what would it be? I would tell myself that I should take care of my health and work hard on my studies. Name two things you d like to achieve in the next five years? I d like to have a floor in the Burj Al Arab and I want to have a mall called Al Qaydi Mall. HCT Vice Chancellor Dr Tayeb Kamali and Jordan s Education Minister Dr Taysir Al Nueimi get the latest technological lowdown from Abu Dhabi Men s College students. UAE heritage a legacy for students An exhibition featuring antiques from around the Gulf region collected by Dr Ahmed Khoori was hosted recently at Abu Dhabi Women s College. Held under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research and Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology, the exhibit, Our Heritage and Legacy, was a collaboration between ADWC and Dr Khoori, a private collector. Dr Khoori, who works as a manager at Abu Dhabi Company for Onshore Oil Operations (ADCO), also volunteers as the chair of the college s Business Program Advisory Committee. The inauguration of Our Heritage coincided with the week of World Heritage Day. Over many years, Dr Khoori has collected items that remind him of old times. We have such a rich culture, he said. Appreciating our heritage can keep us grounded amid the many changes in today s world. Included in the exhibit were items as old as handwritten copies of the Holy Qur an, preserved over hundreds of years, as well as antiques as recent as 1920s telephones imported to the Emirates from the UK. Many items will be familiar to residents of the UAE, such as ornate carved doors and silver Al Rawi Quiz jewellery. Other items used in the UAE before its oil industry developed, such as a balance scale, old well wheels, and palm frond baskets, gave viewers a new perspective on life in the Gulf in years past. Our late president, HH Sheikh Zayed (may God bless his soul), said, Those who do not have a past have neither a present nor a future. Dr Khoori said. - Karen Marie Belnap This well wheel functioned as a pulley, allowing an ox to pull a huge bucket of water up from a well. The lucky winner of the Al Rawi March 2009 ipod Shuffle compeititon was Dubai Women s College student Afra Ahmed Alabid Ahmed Bin Yahwil. Congratulations Afra! Check out the next edition of Al Rawi for the next giveaway. In the meantime, test your general knowledge with this quiz. PUBLISHER Higher Colleges of Technology Central Services PO Box Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates Opinions expressed in Al Rawi do not necessarily represent those of the HCT or the editorial team. Information is correct at the time of going to print. Send articles or comments to: alrawi@hct.ac.ae 1. Which famous singer has the middle and last names Louise Ciccone? 2. Which film made in India won 8 Oscars? 3. Dior is a famous perfume and designer clothes producer. Which nationality is Dior? 4. Which country exports the most rice in the world? 5. Which English word means a young cow and also a part of the human leg? 6. IBM is a famous computer company. What does IBM mean? 7. Which is the coldest month in the UAE? 8. If you met a 10-year old hamour, would you say Hello Sir or Hello Madam? In other words, is a 10-year old hamour male or female? 7. January 8. Hello Madam female. All hamours become female at four-years old. Answers 1. Madonna 2. Slumdog Millionaire 3. French 4. Thailand 5. Calf 6. International Business Machines 14

15 HCT Sports First Jebel Hafeet relay challenge Al Ain Men s College hosted the inaugural Jebel Hafeet Relay Challenge at the Jebel Hafeet and Green Mubazzarah areas, in Al Ain. The challenge was for a team of six students from each college to run up Jebel Hafeet Mountain, with each runner required to run a 2 km leg with an average incline of 100m. Student teams from Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah Men s Colleges participated in the race, as well as a faculty member from CERT who ran the complete challenge alone. An Al Ain Men s College faculty vs management challenge also proved to be very competitive. The event challenged the participants fitness levels, willpower and team cooperation levels. Sharjah Men s College won the inaugural event with Al Ain Men s College (AAMC) coming in second. All the teams thoroughly enjoyed the event and running clubs have been formed systemwide in preparation for AAMC s signature event in Mark Suares Experience triumphs over age at Arabian corporate games The more experienced football team proudly display their medals. A keen athlete tackles Jebel Hafeet. A combined staff team from the Ras Al Khaimah Men s and Women s Colleges won second place at the Arabian Games six-a-side football competition, held in Abu Dhabi in April under the partronage of HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of the HCT. Playing in the Open age division, the team consisted of players mostly over the age of 30 but with a few good years still left in the legs. Experience trumped youth as they went undefeated on the first day with three wins and one tie to finish top of their group. The next day saw an easy win in the first match to set up a semi-final with Abu Dhabi Men s College student team. Arguably the highlight of the tournament, RAK Colleges won in overtime against players half their age 3-2. Too many injuries and not enough energy drinks saw the team finally go down to defeat in the championship match and finish second out of 15 teams. They look forward to participating again next year, and this time securing the elusive gold medal. - Paul Cleaver Our winners in and on the water Above and below: Ras Al Khaimah Men s College won the annual HCT Boat Race, followed by Sharjah Men s College in second place and Al Ain Men s College in third. Dubai Men s College (DMC) swimmers hogged the limelight at the recent Higher Education Sports Federation Intercollegiate Swimming Competition organized by Sharjah University. DMC won the team championship after accumulating 73 points from nine events. More than 100 swimmers representing 11 universities and colleges in the UAE participated in this popular swimming competition. Issue 9 June

16 Designing the future through thinking Inspire Innovate Invent Festival of Thinkers attracts worldõ s best for 2009 Festival of Thinkers 2009 is set to play host to some fascinating discussions from 2 Ð 4 November, The Festival of Thinkers is a forum which explores thinking by bringing together thought leaders of the world, including Nobel Prize winners, economists, scientists, business leaders and others. The Festival uses the challenges faced by our world as subject matter in this process. The format of the conference includes round table discussions where the youth of the region have an opportunity to discuss important global challenges with Nobel laureates and global thought leaders. NOBEL LAUREATES Prof.Ê JohannÊ DeisenhoferÊ ChemistryÊ 1988 Dr.Ê ShirinÊ EbadiÊ PeaceÊ 2003 Prof.Ê RobertÊ EngleÊ EconomicsÊ 2003 Prof.Ê RichardÊ Ernst PhysicsÊ 1973 Prof.Ê HartmutÊ MichelÊ ChemistryÊ 1988 Prof.Ê RobertÊ MundellÊ EconomicsÊ 1999 Prof.Ê ErwinÊ Neher MedicineÊ 1991 Dr.Ê MarshallÊ NirenbergÊ MedicineÊ 1968 Dr.Ê RajendraÊ PachauriÊ PeaceÊ 2007 Prof.Ê EdwardÊ PrescottÊ EconomicsÊ 2004 Dr.Ê RobinÊ Warren MedicineÊ 2005 Dr.Ê FeridÊ Murad MedicineÊ 1998 Dr.Ê RudolphÊ MarcusÊ ChemistryÊ 1992 WORLD THINKERS (include) HMÊ KingÊ Constantine HRHÊ CrownÊ PrinceÊ Pavlos SirÊ GeneralÊ PeterÊ deê laê Billieres CherieÊ BlairÊ QC SteveÊ Forbes,Ê Commander-in-Chief PresidentÊ andê CEO,Ê BritishÊ Forces,Ê GulfÊ War ForbesÊ Inc MikeÊ Moore,Ê FormerÊ PrimeÊ Minister,Ê NewÊ Zealand LizÊ Mohn,Ê ViceÊ Chairwoman,Ê BertelsmannÊ Stiftung FidelÊ CastroÊ DiazÊ Balart,Ê Scientific Adviser to the PresidentÊ ofê the StateÊ Council,Ê Cuba SirÊ DavidÊ Wallace,Ê Master,Ê ChurchillÊ CollegeÊ Cambridge Dr.Ê MohanÊ Munasinghe,Ê ViceÊ Chairman,Ê IPCC SirÊ MartinÊ Sweeting,Ê ExecutiveÊ Chairman,Ê SurreyÊ SatelliteÊ TechnologyÊ Ltd LadyÊ BarbaraÊ Judge,Ê Chairman, UKÊ AtomicÊ EnergyÊ Authority SirÊ WinfriedÊ Bischoff,Ê RetiredÊ Chairman,Ê Citigroup LordÊ SwrajÊ Paul,Ê DeputyÊ SpeakerÊ HouseÊ ofê Lords,Ê UK Organized by : Higher Colleges of Technology