CAA Supplement Khaleej Times

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Benchmark for knowledge acquisition The Commission for Academic Accreditation of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research conducts a programme of licensure of institutions of higher education and accreditation of each of their academic programmes to ensure that they meet international standards of quality Jamila K. Qadir

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Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research

Knowledge conveys power, the power to shape our economy, the power to shape our society, and the power to shape our future

OLLEGES and universities of the UAE, government-supported and private alike will play an essential role as the UAE seeks to realise the tremendous potential of a knowledge-based future, said Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

It is therefore of the utmost importance that institutions in the UAE offer the highest quality academic programmes, programmes that have international standards, he said in an exclusive interview with Khaleej Times.

“Knowledge conveys power, the power to shape our economy, the power to shape our society, and the power to shape our future.”

To ensure that the colleges and universities in the UAE operate at international standards of quality, the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research conducts a programme of licensure of institutions of higher education and accreditation of each of their academic programmes.

“The CAA is very important as even with the best intentions in the world you will need to compare. We only can do better when we compare, not to compete, but to put up some standards and stick to those standards,” he explained.

“This (education) is the most important investment the family can make, the country can make for the future. Education is not (about) the quantity, but the quality.”

Education is not memorising, it is an outcome-based process and you have to have many components of it, which allows to deliver the standard you want.

“I’m not saying that we should com-

pare ourselves to the countries that have experience and established standards that served them well. We have followed those standards, we took advantage and benefited from them and applied to and tried them in our local institutions to enable them to maintain the highest levels of education,” Shaikh Nahyan said.

“Institution is not a building, but what it produces — a graduate — and as a government we are responsible for the quality of these institutions and make sure that graduates are able to compete in the 21st century, to be positive contributors to the society and be able to be creative, entrepreneurial and have leadership skills,” he said.

“We see the accreditation as a very important tool that serves the UAE well and has maintained a good level of education both in private and public sectors.

CAA makes sure the institutions are committed to the highest standards, maintaining the level of education, the curriculum and scientific research.

“We evaluate every step, how exams are conducted, size of classrooms bylaws, rules and regulations are working.

We have different methods than anybody else: for every institution we have different people (evaluators).

“They come back to us with recommendations and we make sure they (institutions) comply with rules and implement high standards,” Shaikh Nahyan explained.

“By doing this we’ll be able to make sure that students and institutions contribute positively to the society, understand the changes in the world and are able to cope with them, understand new technologies and are able to move forward,” he said.

The CAA continues to refine the existing standards and procedures to ensure that newly established institutions and

NO COMPROMISE ON QUALITY: CAA team at the 10th Biennial INQAAHE Conference programmes, as well as existing ones, always room to improve, Shaikh Nahyan said. meet high standards of quality.

CAA follows standards and procedures The 10 standards of excellence and the criteria that all institutions must meet consistent with the international best for licensure and programme accredi- practices, with the objective of bringing tation provide measures of quality and higher education in the UAE up to interalso reflect a consensus within the inter- national standards, he added. national higher education community about the essential characteristics of institutions that achieve a level of excellence and continuously improve.

As a result, students, graduates, their families, and the UAE public can be confident that licensed institutions and accredited programmes will provide higher education of the highest quality, that they expect and deserve.

By adhering to established standards, policies and procedures in its relationships with institutions, CAA continually www.reddoorproductions.net strives to improve the quality of higher Screen Advertising Agents Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall education in the UAE because there is

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Quality driven achievements Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) has been the source of quality assurance in education in the country since the past decade

CAA’s Commissioners are all praise for the Commission’s outstanding teams and their excellent work.

Their comments are given below:

Latha Krishnan

Q

UALITY has been and continues to be the top priority of the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), ever since it was established 10 years ago. For higher education, the CAA is truly the quality assurance agency in the country, being at once both a regulator and a champion for quality higher education with institutional licensure as well as programme accreditation responsibilities.

Set up under the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) the CAA monitors the quality of nearly 500 academic programmes offered by nearly 70 colleges and universities in the UAE. From its inception, the CAA has strived to achieve the vision of Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of MOHESR, “It is of utmost importance that institutions in the UAE offer the highest quality academic programmes that are recognised both within the country and internationally for their excellence.” It implies that the CAA has championed quality, but in its history it has also closed institutions (about 25 of them), which were offering programmes that were not of the high quality that the UAE residents expect.

“Right from the beginning, the CAA has made sure that the international standards that we adopt here are tailored to suit the local population and society taking into consideration its customs, traditions and culture. We have revised the standards twice in the past so that it truly reflects the needs of the country. And we urge the residents of the UAE to consult the MOHESR and the CAA website and choose accredited institutions and programmes for their wards so that these students can graduate and compete globally for jobs,” said Professor Badr Aboul Ela, Director of the Commission for Academic Accreditation.

Under the guidance and directives of Shaikh Nahyan, the CAA has evolved from being a regulatory body to also being a consultative body that provides advice and support to institutions with potential to improve themselves and meet its high standards. In many instances the CAA works continually either as a partner in developing quality programmes and institutions, or as the leverage that institutions need to move in new directions, or as the facilitator of quality improvements.

The review process of educational pro-

QUALITY ASSURANCE: Officials at the 10th Biennial INQAAHE Conference Professor Badr Aboul Ela

grammes is outcome-based. They insist that each programme has a set of learning outcomes that are driven by the needs of the job market. They also encourage institutions to have programme advisory committees whose members include relevant industry representatives. This ensures that educational programmes are designed and continuously developed to have outcomes, which suit the societal needs.

The review teams of the CAA ensure that quality is never compromised, as they consist of senior academics from the US, Canada, the UK or Australia and are highly qualified and experienced commissioners, who are educators and academic administrators and active in international quality assurance efforts. These teams are able to make unbiased decisions and can competently apply international standards that ably meet local job market demands while accrediting institutions and programmes.

Among the many achievements of the CAA team in the past years, one of the highlights is that it was the first one to establish a set of standards for electronically delivered programmes (e-learning) in the entire Middle East in 2004. Based on its experience and international exposure, the Commission revised these standards in 2007 and currently several institutions in the region and beyond refer to them when setting up their e-learning facilities. Last year, the CAA developed special quality assurance measures for similar programmes in vocational

‘Well ahead of other accrediting bodies’

and technical education.

The CAA is an active member of the International Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (INQAAHE) and took a leading role in setting up the Arab Network for Quality Assurance in Higher Education (ANQAHE). Professor Badr, who is also currently the Vice-President of ANQAHE, has been instrumental along with some of his colleagues in establishing accreditation agencies in several Arab countries.

“We have established a regular pro-

gramme of ‘Quality Assurance Workshops’ and a ‘Good Practice Database’ to share best practices between institutions, in all aspects of institutional operations, and in quality assurance and enhancement. In future, we want to organise more such workshops for our higher education institutions to drive home the quality message to all institutions.

We will also continue to provide advisory services to government agencies based on statistics of popular study programmes and their impact,” said Professor Badr.

Dr Thomas F. Armstrong – Commissioner: “As the newest Commissioner (I began my work in February, 2010), but one who had worked closely with accrediting bodies in the United States for several years before coming to the UAE, I am most impressed by the work of the CAA. The willingness of the CAA to look at both institutional measures of quality through the licensure process and to look closely at programme quality through the accreditation process is a significant departure from accreditation as practised in the US. The fact that the CAA looks so carefully at whether the courses focus on student learning (the outcomes of an education) is very important and is well ahead of many other accrediting bodies.

“I believe that the CAA has made a significant difference for higher education in the Emirates. As commissioners we are privileged to work with outstanding teams made up of international experts and together we are able to advise institutions on best international practices. The result is a much better and much stronger form of higher education in the UAE.” Dr Rolin Sidwell – Commissioner: “Working for an enlightened and visionary Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and a dedicated and committed executive director of the CAA has been richly rewarding. The reward is visible in the energy and enthusiasm exhibited by students who are engaged in a journey of discovery and learning or who, as graduates, are applying their knowledge and skills in useful and creative endeavours. The UAE society is changing in wonderful ways.

“In the relatively short space of 10 years, under the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the CAA has worked closely with colleges and universities in the UAE to implement substantial improvements in their academic programmes and in the operational and support services that enable students to fully commit to their studies. The Commission and its leadership are committed to the realisation of a future in which students with knowledge gained through higher education would change society and improve the quality of life for all who live here.

“I have been honoured and blessed to be a part of this process. Al-Humdulilah.”

Professor Ian P. Cumbus – Commissioner: “Over the decade of its establishment the CAA has developed and refined a set of rigorous Standards (Standards for Licensure and Accreditation) that it applies to new institutions and to their proposed programmes. In my view, these have served well for Commissioners to ensure that institutions have threshold levels of physical and human resources, and policies and procedures are in place that are in line with accepted international practices.

“In recent years the Commission has worked increasingly • TURN TO NEXT PAGE

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HBMeU — Pioneering e-learning

Hamdan Bin Mohammed e-University, one of the first e-learning institutions to be licensed and recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the United Arab Emirates, is a pioneer in e-learning with a mission to re-shape education by providing a model of lifelong learning Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai

HAMDAN Bin Mohammed e-University (HBMeU), was officially launched on February 1, 2009 by Shaikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.

The University traces its origin to the e-TQM College that started seven years ago as the only institution with an e-learning platform in the UAE. HBMeU is a pioneer in e-learning with a mission to re-shape education by providing a model of lifelong learning, including open access to short courses, executive development programmes, certificate and diploma courses leading to accredited undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes.

The University is considered the first e-learning institution to be licensed and recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the United Arab Emirates and among the few in the region HBMeU specialises in excellence and quality management and has a wide range of programmes to meet the needs of learners in all sectors of the economy, including business, education, elearning, healthcare and environment. HBMeU provides learning opportunities for all through the principle of click-to-learn.

HBMeU enjoys international credibility, recognition and affiliation, and its programmes are not only demand-driven, but are customised to meet the growing needs of businesses in the UAE and indeed elsewhere in the Arab World in the 21st century.

The University is passionate about upholding excellence in all its service portfolios and has attracted internationally recognised faculty and other professionals that have already started contributing towards human capital development in the UAE.

ADU: Open to all nationalities Abu Dhabi University is licensed by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and all its degree programmes are accredited ABU DHABI University was chartered as a private institution of higher learning in the year 2000 under the patronage of Shaikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region and President of Abu Dhabi University Board of Trustees.

The University is, licensed by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and all its degree programmes are accredited. The University of Abu Dhabi currently serves over 4,000 students at its two campuses in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. ADU colleges are open to students from all nationalities and are based on the American model of higher education. ADU comprises the following colleges: the College of Arts and Sciences, the College of Business Administration and the College of Engineering and Computer Science. ADU has also most recently established the College of Research and Graduate Studies, which is committed to applied strategic research to contribute to the UAE’s economic knowledge and its society, as well as evolving into a national and regional leader in graduate education. The college integrates discovery, teaching and learning with interdisciplinary focus and public service.

• CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE across the region to guide other emerging accreditation agencies, to work on quality assurance matters that are in common across all agencies, and to participate in institutional reviews as international panel members. As a Commissioner with the CAA, there is a high level of job satisfaction that we are ‘making a difference’ to the quality of higher education as it develops in the UAE, and that ultimately the students will have a more rewarding educational experience and benefit from the work we do.”

Dr Bruce Taylor – Commissioner: “I joined the CAA at the beginning of Ramadan in 2008. The majority of the programme accreditation visits I have managed for the Commission have been in business subjects.

I have brought to the Commission’s work a background in quality assurance in distance learning, and experience with accreditation of higher education in non-Western settings — namely, the Far East and Central Asia.

“The Commission deserves great credit for establishing over its first 10 years, through its Standards for Licensure and Accreditation, minimum levels of

academic quality for higher education institutions in the UAE, which ensure that degrees available here meet the highest international standards. For the future, I believe that the CAA will adapt to new developments in higher education, such as technologyenhanced learning, while at the same time remaining vigilant in guarding the levels of quality it has worked so hard to achieve.

“Congratulations to my colleagues for 10 years of great achievements.”

— Compiled by Latha Krishnan

HBMeU is a pioneer in e-learning with a mission to re-shape education by providing a model of lifelong learning, including open access to short courses, executive development programmes, certificate and diploma courses leading to accredited undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes

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UNIVERSITY OF DUBAI

Great value for graduates University of Dubai is recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research as being the first to earn accreditation of its academic programmes UNIVERSITY of Dubai (UD), a prestigious academic university established by the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 1997, continues to offer great value for money and excellent professional projection for graduates.

UD is positioned as number one among the UAE’s private universities and is recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research as being the first to earn accreditation of its academic programmes. It has produced some of the best entrepreneurs who have clinched top positions in the Dubai government and non-government sectors in the UAE. UD constantly organises entrepreneurship programmes for women, aiming to enhance the qualifications and skills of UD’s meritorious students specialising in management, marketing, finance and banking and accounting.

Though the regional job market is still passing through a stressful period, most of the fresh UD business graduates are offered jobs within three to five months. A recent study on regional universities showed that UD was among the few institutions in the country offering academic excellence at an affordable cost and financial aid for deserving students compared to institutes with high tuition fees and no financial aid.

The degree programmes offered by UD are recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in the UAE. The College of Business Administration offers Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting, Finance and Banking, Management, Marketing, Human Resources Management, Entrepreneurship Management, Supply Chain and Logistics Management and Business Economics; and Master of Business Administration in Leadership and Human Resources Management, Finance and Accounting, Operations and Logistics Management and International Business and Marketing. The College of Business Administration is accredited by AACSB international. The College of Information Technology offers Bachelor of Science.

The Computing and Information Systems (CIS) programme is accredited internationally by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology in the United States.

These two international accreditations position UD as the first private university recognised by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research to have earned such recognition.

SELF SUFFICIENT: The GMU campus has facilities for students and faculty

GULF MEDICAL UNIVERSITY

Learning from the world Twelve-year-old Gulf Medical University, Ajman, has progressed by leaps and bounds in the field of medical education, research and health care ON November 5, 2010 Gulf Medical University, Ajman, completed 12 glorious and successful years. Since its inception Gulf Medical University, Ajman, has progressed by leaps and bounds in the field of medical education, research and health care.

Gulf Medical University is promoted

by Thumbay Group and headed by its Founder President Thumbay Moideen.

It is fully recognised as an institution imparting higher education by the Ministry of Higher Education, UAE, offering innovative Bachelors, Masters and Residency programmes in the fields of medicine, dentistry, pharmaceutical sciences, physical therapy etc. Needless to say, the GMC Hospital and Research Center, Ajman, is now one of the largest healthcare providers in the private sector in the UAE. The university attracts more than 51 nationalities from various countries and majority of them are nationals and Arabs from Gulf

AMERICAN UNIVERSITY OF RAS AL KHAIMAH

Academic excellence redefined American University of Ras Al Khaimah encourages lifelong learning, professional education and promotes human capacity to ensure an educated workforce for social and economic progress

LICENSED and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education in the UAE, the American University of Ras Al Khaimah offers American-style Bachelor of Science degrees designed to meet market demands.

AURAK offers programmes in biotechnology, business administration with specialisation in international business, finance, or marketing, electronics and communication engineering and computer engineering.

The University also offers an English language preparatory programme (ELP) for students who are academically qualified but lack English language proficiency.

AURAK was established in 2009 based on the vision of His Highness Shaikh Saud

bin Saqr Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Chancellor of the University, to encourage lifelong learning, professional education Dr Shaukat A. and promote huMirza man capacity to ensure an educated workforce for social and economic progress.

The Admissions Office provides detailed information and offers direct counselling to all inquiries for successful enrollment into AURAK.

Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

The University campus is well-planned with various buildings spread over an area of one million square feet, which has a 300bed super-specialty hospital, villas, housing complex, boys and girls hostels, Body and Soul Health Club, Coffee Shops, play areas, convention centre and various other facilities for students and faculty.

Gulf Medical University has established a new Center for Continuing Education and Community Outreach under which 70 non-degree programmes — part-time, full-time and online — all of a less than one-year duration will be started.

The Gulf Medical University and GMC Hospital is now on a massive expansion phase with its first international hospital already operational in Blantyre, Malawi, since April 2010. Plans to open branches of Gulf Medical University in Malaysia, South Africa and Mauritius are now on the verge of finalisation. The Gulf Medical University and Hospital is also looking to further establish branches in Nigeria, Egypt, Syria, Iran, and India among the other countries.

With the completion of the first phase of the expansion plan, the group will have a staff strength of around 2,500 with more than 2,000 people housed on the campus including staff, students and faculty.

The second phase of the expansion plan will be announced in the next six months, which will be huge in scope involving several international companies as part of the prestigious project.

The Gulf Medical University’s brand statement, ‘Learn from the World’, depicts learning as a process that cannot be limited to the precincts of books or institution alone. The avenues of learning are very broad, so why learn from just one place?

With a perfect blend of capable faculty from all across the world and an equipped infrastructure, the students will acquire the best from the world to hone their skills and knowledge.

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Creating oil and gas professionals Contributing to healthcare in region From its base in Dubai, the RCSI-Dubai offers postgraduate education, training and consultancy in leadership, management, patient safety and quality FOR OVER 200 years the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) has played a major role in medical education and training in Ireland.

Founded in 1784 to train surgeons, a medical school was later established in 1886. Today, RCSI has schools of Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and Nursing. In addition to undergraduate education, RCSI delivers postgraduate training and education through its Department of Surgery, Faculties of Radiology, Dentistry, Sports and Exercise Medicine, School of Postgraduate Studies and its Institute of Leadership. RCSI’s research institute is one of Ireland’s foremost research centres specialising in translational research.

More than 60 countries are represented on RCSI’s international student body in Ireland and the College also has a strong international presence with schools in Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates, and a University in Bahrain. The college is an independent, notfor-profit, progressive international organisation dedicated to improving human health through innovation, endeavour and collaboration in educational research and service.

The mission of the RCSI Institute of Leadership is to improve human health through the development of excellent leaders and managers in the health professions.

From its base in Dubai, the Institute offers postgraduate education, training and consultancy in leadership, management, patient safety and quality. Its Masters programmes are accredited by both the Government of the UAE and by the National University of Ireland, the largest University organisation in Ireland. RCSI-Dubai also provides continuing professional development and bespoke training programmes aimed at facilitating the development of effective healthcare organisations. Since the founding, RCSI Dubai has graduated healthcare professionals who are making a major contribution to the development of healthcare in the region.

The Petroleum Institute offers CAA accredited Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical and Petroleum Engineering and Petroleum Geosciences THE Petroleum Institute (PI) was set up by an Emiri Decree in 2001 with the goal of establishing a world leader in engineering education and research in areas of significance to the oil and gas and the broader energy industry.

PI’s sponsors include Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and four subsidiary international oil companies. Currently, the institute offers Bachelor’s degrees in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical and Petroleum Engineering and Petroleum Geosciences, which have full CAA accreditation.

At the graduate level the PI offers Master’s degrees in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical and Petroleum Engineering and Masters of Science in Chemical, Electrical, Mechanical and Petroleum Engineering and Petroleum Geosciences all of which have initial accreditation from the CAA. There are over 1,050 undergraduate students and 122 graduate students currently enrolled at the Petroleum Institute. The Institute gradu-

ated its first 44 students in June 2006, who completed their engineering programmes and began their careers within the ADNOC Group of Companies.

Modern campus — Diverse community The PI has developed a truly cosmopolitan community on its campus, having more than 50 different nationalities working together to produce research in many areas relevant to the energy industry and educational best practices. The evolution of the campus facilities reflects the needs of such a diverse and talented group with state-of-the-art facilities for education, research, housing and recreation under development.

Undergraduate engineering education The undergraduate programmes provide a rigorous university education focused on engineering and applied science in the broad field of energy. The education of the whole person is also central to the mission of the PI so that the graduating engi-

neers are equipped with the necessary technical and personal competencies to be successful lifelong learners with the capability to function effectively in any environment.

Women in science and engineering The facility where female engineering students attend classes, Arzanah, is dedicated to the identification, development and enhancement of women engineers and their professional advancement in the global society. The PI educates engineers who will be leaders in industry and society and who herald a new age for women in a profession which until recent years was predominantly a male preserve.

State-of-the-art laboratories Each programme is equipped with modern laboratories that have the most up-to-date instrumentation and technology. Labs vary from a lifesize drilling system to materials science laboratories. Students have the unique opportunity to participate in an advanced hands-on practical education experience that helps in preparing graduates in the new emerging energy technologies.

Global graduate opportunities In order to encourage academic exchange (including faculty, research scholars, undergraduate and graduate students) the PI has signed memoranda of understanding with leading

SKYLINE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

Integrating knowledge with professional inputs

Skyline University College has a futuristic approach that keeps pace with the changing trends of market requirements and prepares students to meet challenges by grooming them academically and professionally in the global context SKYLINE University College, since its inception in 1990, has moved on to become one of the leading business education providers in the UAE. The institution was set up with the vision of academic excellence, professional education and academic consultancy. Now, in its 20th year of successful operations in the education sector in the UAE, the University College has been a forerunner in recognising the needs of the industry and integrating knowledge with professional inputs. The futuristic approach of Skyline strives to keep pace with the changing trends of market requirements and prepares students to meet the

challenges by grooming them all round academically and professionally in the global context.

Skyline University College offers BBA — Bachelor of Business Administration programme, major in Travel & Tourism Management, Marketing, International Business and Information Systems and MBA — Master of Business Administration programme with emphasis on Marketing and Finance. Both the programme offerings are fully approved and accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR), UAE. This enables Skyline’s graduates to acquire a high level of managerial skills, knowledge, positive attitude and the much-needed professional temper and edge required to excel in their professions.

Located in the picturesque University City of Sharjah, the campus is spread over 40 acres with world-class infrastructure for academic, extra-curricular and sporting activities, featuring a modern and innovative learning ambience. More information can be obtained from Skyline University College’s Marketing & Registration Department at 06-5441155 or admissions@skylineuniversity.com.

international universities including Colorado School of Mines, USA; University of Maryland, USA; Technische Universität München, Germany and Johannes Kepler University, Austria.

Advanced research and technology development centre Research in the oil and gas industry is of high importance to the future of the UAE. The Petroleum Institute is charged with the responsibility of addressing the need for efficient production of energy and management

of energy resources. The construction of the institute’s first dedicated research facility, the TAKREER Research Facility, is now completed with the PI Research Center in the planning stage.

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Setting a benchmark in vocational training Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute’s mission is to empower Emiratis to lead the nation’s future development through world-class, workplace focused technical and vocational education as well as training ABU DHABI Vocational Education and Training Institute (ADVETI), an initiative of Abu Dhabi Government, was established in 2007 with a vision to be the benchmark of technical and vocational education in the UAE. It has three institutes in Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Gharbia.

The institutes are administered by the leaders of vocational education from Australia and Germany: the Australian Technical and Further Education Commission of New South Wales — TAFE NSW, and the German agency for technical cooperation — GTZ. The total number of students studying in ADVETI Abu Dhabi, Al Ain and Al Gharbia is around 2,300. It offers an exciting and diverse range of applied programmes, which include Information Technology, Project Management, Travel and Tourism, Health, Design, Environment Stud-

ADVETI programs on offer for 2010-2011 ABU DHABI

AL AIN

AL GHARBIA

Information Technology Information Technology (Networking) Information Technology (Multimedia)

Information Technology IT Systems (Field & Network Support) Media Technology

Information Technology IT Systems (Field & Network Support)

Services Travel and Tourism Library & Information Services

Industrial Technology Technical Drawing Car Mechatronics Process Automation Industrial Mechatronics

Business Project Management Human Recourse

Medical Health Care Medical Services Medical Laboratory Analysis Biomedical Equipment Services

Design Decoration and Interior Design Graphic Design

Design Fashion Design Jewellery Design

Environment Environment, Health and Safety ies, Industrial Mechanics and Event Management. The programmes offered at ADVETI have been specifically designed in consultation with Abu Dhabi industry and businesses to ensure that ADVETI graduates are ready to meet the knowledge and skill needs of local commercial enterprises and organisations.

All programmes can be completed in two-and-half years of full-time study, excluding the Foundation year. Students can also apply for Recognition of Prior Learning, and receive credit for previous study

Applied Management Tourism Management Travel Management Event Management and for skills and knowledge acquired through their experience at work.

All delivery at ADVETI is in English. A foundation programme is available for students who do not meet the diploma entry level of English requirement. Successful graduates exit the institute with an internationally recognised level of English,

Industrial Technology Technical Drawing Car Mechatronics Laboratory Analysis Medical Health Care Medical Services Applied Management Event Management enabling them to work competently in a business environment where English is the medium for communication.

Graduates from these diploma programmes can operate effectively in a specific industry or profession. All programmes include employability skills, and students complete their studies with a work placement programme to apply their skills.

ADVETI is licensed by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research and has achieved accreditation for the Project Management, Human Resources Management, Networking, Multimedia and Decoration and Interior Design. ADVETI is working towards national accreditation for all other programmes.

RAK MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY

Striving for excellence RAK Medical and Health Sciences University is dedicated to the pursuit of academic excellence and committed to prepare graduates with critical skills to join the medical and healthcare fields in the 21st Century RAK Medical and Health Sciences University was established in 2006 by the Ras Al Khaimah Human Development Foundation (RAK-HDF) under the patronage of His Highness Shaikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah and Chancellor of the University, with the vision to be the leading medical and health sciences university in the UAE. Entrepreneurial leaders Al Ghurair Investments and ETA Ascon Star Group, Dubai, are partners in this venture.

The university is dedicated to the pursuit of academic excellence and committed to preparing graduates with critical skills to join the medical and healthcare fields in

the 21st Century. RAK MHSU is home to over 400 medical and health science students belonging to 38 nationalities.

PROGRAMMES OF STUDY (FULL –TIME) • Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) (5-year programme + one-year internship) • Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) (5-year programme + one-year internship) • Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) (4-year programme + 6 months practice school) • Bachelor of Science in Nursing (B.Sc.Nursing) (4-year programme) • RN-BSN Bridge Programme (2-year programme for working nurses holding Diploma in Nursing to upgrade to B.Sc. Nursing degree) All programmes have been granted initial accreditation

by Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, UAE, and are listed in IMED (International Medical Education Directory) https://imed.faimer.org.Uu HIGHLIGHTS • System-wise, integrated and updated curriculum

• Training in clinical skills from first year of study • Problem-based learning to facilitate learning in small groups Clinical training and internship in government hospitals (Saqr and Obaid Hospital) at Ras Al Khaimah ADMISSION PROCESS Next academic session commences in September 2011 and admissions will commence in January 2011. Students can check admission requirements and apply online at www.rakmhsu.com. Applicants are required to send a copy of their 12th grade marks by scanning the same and e-mailing to admissions@rakmhsu.ae along with their TOEFL/IELTS score.

UNIVERSITY OF SHARJAH

Vibrant centre for study ‘Accreditation is vital for a knowledge-based future,’ says Prof. Samy Mahmoud, Chancellor, University of Sharjah A LEADING institution for higher learning and a vibrant centre for study and advanced research, the University of Sharjah (UOS) offers the most comprehensive and inclusive platform of academic programmes in the entire GCC region. UAE nationals constitute 50 per cent of its student community and besides its main campus in Sharjah, UOS has two satellite campuses in Khor Fakkan and Kalba.

“The idea of subjecting academic institutions and academic programmes to a rigorous process of licensure and accreditation has been an excellent move and one which UOS wholeheartedly adheres to in its endeavour to provide the highest quality education to all our students,” says Prof. Samy Mahmoud, Chancellor, University of Sharjah. “Accreditation serves as a vital quality assurance process in which the academic programme is assessed from the point of view of its relevance to society, its academic content, and more importantly, its outcome in terms of the learning and experience the students are expected to have.

This, in turn, is reflected in timely and proper investment in excellent infrastructure and other facilities, up-to-date learning tools and a competent faculty.”

By setting up the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) a decade ago, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has enabled colleges and universities throughout the UAE to realise the tremendous potential of a knowledge-based future, says Prof. Samy. “Accredited programmes in the UAE, therefore, operate at international standards of quality and this has distinguished higher education in the UAE from corresponding education in the rest of the Arab world.”

Accreditation is very important as it ensures that academic programmes are constantly being developed, assessed and evaluated to meet world class standards, says Prof. Samy.

“Academic programmes will suffer if they stagnate but thanks to accreditation it goes through a process of thorough self-assessment ensuring it maintains the highest Accredited quality always. It is a way to constantly evaluate and programmes check the programme and we in the UAE, welcome the efforts of the CAA because of that.” therefore, operate “Within a short span of 10 at international years, the CAA has certainly made tremendous strides standards of and on their momentous 10th anniversary, I would quality and this has to congratulate them on distinguished higher like a very successful decade,” education in the UAE says the Chancellor. “We are committed to continue to from corresponding work with the Commission to fully cooperate with education in the rest and them in all the good work they of the Arab world do.”

Commission for Academic Accreditation

KHALEEJ TIMES, ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2010

AL GHURAIR UNIVERSITY

Offering greater access

AGU aims to further develop itself as a student-centric quality-focused university catering to the needs of students and the community Khaleej Times spoke to Dr Lawrence Loh, VicePresident for Academic Affairs, Al Ghurair University, about the university’s objectives, achievements and activities.

When was the AGU established in the UAE? AGU was established in 1999 by the wellrespected Al Ghurair Group to serve the community through the provision of university education.

Which are the courses that AGU has successfully provided in the UAE? Is there any particular programme that you would like to emphasise on?

To date, AGU has successfully offered undergraduate programmes in business, computing, engineering and interior design. Recently, it has also opened a foundation programme to provide even greater access and opportunity

DUBAI MEDICAL COLLEGE

Standing tall AVENUE FOR ASPIRANTS: Offering undergraduate degrees in a range of specialisations for students to benefit from university education. Moving forward, it is planning to launch a Master of Business Administration programme as well as new undergraduate and graduate degree programmes.

Does AGU have ties with internaDr Lawrence Loh tional institutions?

AGU degrees have attained accreditation or equivalence with the competent authorities of various countries internationally. These countries include India, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Pakistan, Sudan, Syria and Yemen.

Which programmes have been granted recognition by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research?

All degree programmes currently offered at AGU have been granted recognition by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. These include: • Bachelor of Business Administration

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Information System • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering • Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronics Engineering • Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design In addition, AGU’s Foundation Programme is also approved by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

What are your plans for AGU in this region?

AGU will further develop itself as a studentcentric quality-focused university catering to the needs of students and the community.

It will deepen its capability and capacity to strengthen its current programmes. Advancing forward, it will gradually grow its offerings of undergraduate and graduate programmes as well as steadily expand to a more diverse base of students from the region and beyond. In tandem with this, AGU will progressively build up its facilities and infrastructure in its campus at Academic City.

ALHOSN UNIVERSITY

Global knowledge with local vision ALHOSN University provides a holistic learning environment and strives to develop careeroriented and lifelong learners ALHOSN University was established in 2005, as a private university in Abu Dhabi. Owned by the Abu Dhabi Holding Company, the university offers a wide range of unique undergraduate and graduate programmes in the fields of engineering, business and education.

The University’s motto, “Global knowledge with Local Vision”, is much more than just a slogan, it is a philosophy and a firm belief in the values of global knowledge combined with local traditions steeped in history.

It is committed to preparing graduates who are able to develop values, skills and knowledge that will shape their lives, careers and societies.

To accomplish this, ALHOSN University offers high-quality undergraduate, graduate and continuing education programmes and promotes research activities that serve local and regional needs.

The university expresses its commitment to its mission by pursuing the following goals:

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To inspire independent, confident, self-directed and dedicated graduates to achieve their personal goals and to prepare graduates to be career-oriented, innovative, critical thinkers and life-long learners. It strives to develop socially responsible graduates who are receptive to the community’s changing needs and are respectful of the noble local and global values. The university recruits qualified faculty and provides them with a conducive and supportive work environment. The university also provides an excellent teaching/learning environment with state-ofthe-art educational facilities and ensures adequate support and care for students.

ALHOSN University offers a variety of Bachelors and Masters Programmes that are accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific research, within the following faculties: The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences: • Bachelor Degree in Interior Design, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Software Engineering and Architectural Engineering The Faculty of Business • Bachelor Degree in Business Administration, Management Information Systems and Busi-

ness Administration in Accounting The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences • Bachelor Degree in Elementary Education in English and Education in Arabic and Islamic Studies The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences: • Master in Buildings Engineering (MBE) and Engineering Management (MEM).

• Graduate Certificate in Buildings Engineering and Engineering Management The Faculty of Business • Master of Business Administration (MBA) o Management Information System o International Business o General Management o Accounting o Finance The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences • Diploma of Education in Arabic • Master of Education (MED) ALHOSN University’s academic programmes were developed in North America by highly qualified professors from reputable universities. Following a thorough market study, the university is developing more undergraduate and graduate programmes that will be added to their list in the near future.

Dubai Medical College offers girls in the UAE and the region an opportunity to study medicine by avoiding the troubles and risks of travelling abroad DUBAI MEDICAL COLLEGE is the first private college to award a degree in medicine and surgery in the UAE. The college was established in 1986 as a non-profit educational institution by Haj Saeed bin Ahmed Al Lootah, to offer girls in the UAE and the region an opportunity to study medicine by avoiding the troubles and risks of travelling abroad.

Today, having completed 25 years in medical education, DMC stands tall as a magnificent institution of academic distinction and a dynamic centre of higher education with professors and students from over 30 different nationalities. DMC boasts over 800 graduates to date, out of which 200 are Emiratis. DMC graduates are well-placed medical practitioners not only in the Gulf but also in over 40 countries, including world-renowned hospitals like the Cleveland Clinic in the US. The fact that DMC is exclusively for girls and that the college was envisioned at a time when higher education for girls in the region was lagging when compared to developed countries, makes the college unique even to this day.

DMC has a public-private partnership with DOHMS (Department of Health and Medical Services), for the students to undergo clinical training at their hospitals. DMC is accredited by the United States, GMC — Britain and is listed in the World Directory of Medical Schools by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The college has also been presented an award under the ‘Dubai Quality Appreciation Program’ and has to its credit the implementation of EFQM excellence model, making it the first educational institution in the Gulf region to do so.

Dubai Pharmacy College Dubai Pharmacy College (DPC) is the first phar-

APT COMBINATIONS: The college strives to create competent pharmacists who meet the growing need for able healthcare professionals

SCRUTINY: The college features a comprehensive curriculum in medical sciences macy Institute in the UAE established in 1992 by Haj Saeed Lootah, with a vision to complement Dubai Medical College in providing the community with competent pharmacists, to meet the growing need for healthcare professionals. Today, DPC graduates play an important role as a vital link between physicians and patients, and as scientists influencing the development and application of pharmaceuticals.

The four-and-half year ‘B.Pharm’ course includes an intensive six-month internship in leading hospitals and primary healthcare centres — 1,000 hours of professional practice experience in the Department of Health hospitals of Dubai, 100 hours in pharmaceutical industries and 300 hours in community pharmacies. As the role and scope of pharmacists’ work continues to expand in modern times, DPC students are well-prepared to confidently face the demands of various modern healthcare sectors. They are also equipped to pursue careers in research in the field of manufacturing, analytical controlling, marketing and administration. DPC teaching programmes are continuously evaluated and upgraded according to the pharmaceutical industry’s constant advancements.

DPC is accredited and licensed by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, UAE. The college boasts over 400 graduates till date out of which 120 are Emiratis. DPC is the first educational institution to be presented an award under the Dubai Quality Appreciation Program (DQAP) in 2004. Since then, the programme continues to achieve worldwide recognition through its wellestablished alumni all over the world.

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Commission for Academic Accreditation

KHALEEJ TIMES, ADVERTISING SUPPLEMENT MONDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2010

BASTION OF LEARNING: AUST campus is a distinctive learning and exploring hub

AUST — Innovative environment

Ajman University of Science and Technology delivers excellent education to empower its students in the business world

RIGHT from its inception in 1971, the United Arab Emirates has realised the utmost importance of education in building up a knowledgebased future. Under the wise leadership of President His Highness Shaikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and His Highness Shaikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the UAE continues to invest in education, being aware that the latter is the key for any growth and development in the future. Thanks to the vision of Shaikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, the Commission for Academic Accreditation has played an essential role in raising the quality standards of education in the UAE universities to international levels. Indeed these universities are now regionally and internationally recognised for their highest quality of education and excellence.

According to Dr Saeed Abdulla Salman, President of Ajman University of Science and Technology (AUST), the university sprang from a three-dimensional vision — education, information and investment, which is its fountainhead. Since 1988 AUST has offered an innovative environment that stands on five pillars — education, research, training, expertise and practice. This open learning system uses technology and modern curricula and gives every member the chance to excel and participate in achieving success.

AUST is a community of talented learners,

whose innovative environment releases the potential energies of the students. Being a student at AUST, you will obtain the merits of both a modern conventional educational system as well as a modern open educational system.

The admission process at AUST is broadbased but highly selective. There is a minimum grade point average, class rank or score one must obtain in order to secure an admission at AUST. However, every single application is given a thorough review.

The admission committee treats each application carefully, evaluating personal as well as intellectual capabilities, and making every effort possible to be thorough, functional and fair.

Interest falls on those students who are up to the challenges, and take advantage of the depth of what the university has to offer. The goal is to bring together a freshman class marked not only by its exceptional academic ability but also by a variety of backgrounds, interests and accomplishments.

At AUST, undergraduate and graduate students have a lot to offer and learn from one another. The freshmen year is a time of many transitions at AUST. The campus is the centre of learning, studying, exploring and socialising in a distinctive academic, extracurricular and culturally diverse environment.

The university has adopted internationally recognised teaching methodologies aimed at developing competent graduates into highly skilled and qualified individuals, committed to

benefiting the society.

A wide range of programmes is offered to support students who wish to immerse in the culture of the campus. There is a focus on interdisciplinary learning in the classroom, the research labs, the clinics and even the residence halls. The university takes interest in the interdisciplinary studies, which gives students the opportunity to plan their own degree programmes. It also gives them the chance to involve in areas of study outside their stated major and work with students in other fields to enhance their own learning.

“All programmes at AUST are the fruit of my experience in education, information and investment,” declares Dr Saeed Salman.

He said, “Our 8,750 undergraduates are among the most engaged and passionate students. At AUST, choices are provided for students to give them the flexibility that is crucial to the learning process. Our extensive list of undergraduate majors includes fields of science and technology, business and humanities, health and law.”

Students may seek a professional education by choosing from an extensive list of 40 programmes within 10 major colleges that the university has to offer.

AUST recently obtained academic accreditation from the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research for its new threeyear Master’s degree programme in Restorative Dentistry. The new programme will be offered as of the Spring Semester 2010-2011.

Diplomas, Bachelors, Masters, Doctors …

Ajman University of Science and Technology: the CHOICE is YOURS AUST today is a regional leader boasting a network of more than 22,000 alumni working in several private and governmental institutions inside and outside the UAE, developing experience and expertise in various industries and serving the larger community. AUST has ambassadors all over the globe: a batch of distinguished and ambitious graduates who have taken the challenge of pursuing research and postgraduate studies in some of the world’s most prestigious universities.