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Issue 8 | M
Ac a d e m ic
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News
ALHOSN University supports the Abilities
AHU hosted the second meeting for the Arab Association
Development Centre First Sport Competition
of Collegiate Registrars and Admission Officers
for Physically challenged individuals
AHU supported the first
sport competition for physically
challenged
individuals
that
was organized by the Abilities
Development Centre and held on
Monday January 4, 2010 at the
Al Jazira Sports Club, Abu Dhabi.
The competition celebrated the UAE’s 38th year of
independence. About 1500 participants from various
schools, most of whom were Grade 12 students,
participated in various sports including: basketball,
football (penalty kicking), swimming, and running.
“It is very important to engage physically challenged
individuals feel that they are part of the society by
engaging in common activities to make them feel that
they are part of the society. At ALHOSN, we have facilities
and services that have been developed specifically for
students with special needs. We believe that a disability should not be a
barrier that prevents an individual from enjoying life and/or achieving his/
her potential. We commend the efforts of the Abilities Development Centre
for organizing this competition. Sports provide a good opportunity for
physically challenged individuals to display their skills and competitiveness”,
Prof. Sabouni, Vice Chancellor & CEO, ALHOSN University.
ALHOSN University signs a Memorandum of
Understanding with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
2
AHU signed a three-year renewable training
and curricular development Memorandum of
Understanding (MOU) with Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank
(ADIB). The agreement includes the creation of an
ADIB Leadership Program that aims at sharpening the
skills of future Islamic banking professionals.
Under the terms of the MoU, both parties are to
collaborate through the exchange of publications,
hosting of seminars, conferences, and training
programs, and the development of Islamic banking
academic programs that offer diplomas and bachelor
degrees. Students, who have a Grade Point Cumulative
Average (GPA) higher than 2.7, are eligible to join
the ADIB Leadership Program. The MoU provides
ALHOSN students with more educational options,
enhanced learning resources, and access to social
programs.
“Islamic banking is playing a major role in sustaining
the UAE’s leadership in the financial sector during the
ongoing global financial crisis. Through our MoU with
ADIB, we aim to supply the UAE’s Islamic banking
ALHOSN University hosted the
2nd Executive Committee Meeting
(ExCom) of the Arab Association
of Collegiate Registrars and
Admissions Officers (ACRAO).
The University contributed to
discussions on prevailing issues,
trends, and practices in Middle
Eastern educational institutions.
Prominent members of the
regional academia attended the
meeting; including: Dr Hamdi
Sheibani, ALHOSN’s Provost and
the upcoming president of Arab
ACRAO, Mosaed Abdulkarim Al
Dakhil, ACRAO secretary-general,
Dr Sheriff Chihab, Professor at the
University of Arts and Science and
Technology in Lebanon and current
president of the Arab ACRAO,
Dr Walid Al Mobayed, Professor
at the University of Balamand in
Lebanon and former president
of Arab ACRAO; and Ms Aisha Al
Thani, Acceptance Administrator
in Qatar University, and Mr Nabil
Jamal Mohiuddin, Administrator
from Kuwait University and
Secretariat of Arab ACRAO, Ms
Ghada Qabha, Director of Student
Affairs, ALHOSN University.
AHU contributed to the
planning of the Arab ACRAO’s
30th General Conference, which
the theme “Admission and
Registration Challenges in Light
of Technological Development”.
The conference themes include:
Alhosn N ews
Alhosn N ews
Issue 8 | May 2010
educational tourism, document
forgery, document protection,
modern educational approaches,
and equivalency of Arab’s
university degrees.
“ALHOSN constantly participates
in regional dialogues that help
improve the quality of the education
and the associated services. Our
partnership with Arab ACRAO
enables us to interact with our
regional and international colleagues
share our visions and achieve a
knowledge-based Arab society. We
pledge to take all the necessary
measures to ensure the success of
ACRAO’s 30th conference as well as
its other initiatives”, added Dr Hamdi
Sheibani, ALHOSN’s Provost.
The Arab Association of
Collegiate
Registrars
and
Admissions Officers (ACRAO)
has been founded in the late
1970s and is comprised of leading
Middle Eastern universities. The
Association organizes annual
meetings that attract experts in
admissions, registration, student
advising, student activities, and
other student services.
AHU outlined Engineering Career Options at the
system with specialists to reinforce our global leadership
in this sector,” said Prof. Sabouni, Vice Chancellor &
CEO, ALHOSN University.
Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank was established in 1997 as a
Public Joint Stock Company by way of an Amiri decree
and was formally inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Abdullah
bin Zayed Al Nahyan (UAE Minister of Information and
Culture during that period). Its commercial operations
commenced in 1998.
Institute of Applied Technology in Fujairah
AHU visited the Fujairah campus of the Institute of
Applied Technology to discuss career opportunities in
the engineering, computer science, and technology
fields.
ALHOSN displayed various academic programs
and encouraged students to consider careers in
engineering including software engineering field. The
visit formed part of ALHOSN’s initiative to promote
the development of the needed technical skills for the
rapidly evolving 21st century workplace.
“We have witnessed a rapid change in the needed
workplace skills within the first decade of this century.
There is a particularly strong emphasis on technical
competency to complement the efforts of several
countries in establishing digital societies.” Nadine Kanj,
ALHOSN’s Marketing & PR Department Manager.
3
ALHOSN University signs Memorandum of
Understanding with UAE Society of Engineers
to engineering students, allowing them to better adjust
the industry practices and to build talents that suit
real-world needs. We look forward to going beyond the
initial three-year period of this partnership and create an
enduring productive relationship with ALHOSN,” stated
Dr Al Hosani.
AHU signed a renewable three-year Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE Society of
Engineers. The MoU was signed on February 3, 2010
by their Excellencies Dr Khalil Ibrahim Al Hosani,
Vice Chairman of the UAE Society of Engineers, and
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni, Vice Chancellor & CEO of
ALHOSN University.
Under the terms of the MoU, ALHOSN is to utilize
the local and international expertise of the Society
to deliver high-quality engineering education and
to strengthen the role of the Faculty of Engineering
and Applied Sciences in achieving ALHOSN’s vision
“Global Knowledge with Local Vision”. ALHOSN and
the Society are to hold one joint event every year
and meet every six weeks to discuss areas of mutual
interest. Joint events include training workshops,
conferences, and educational programs. The MoU
also involves the exchange of technical reports and
academic studies. Both ALHOSN and the society are
to co-promote their programs and activities.
“It would be good for our profession if we can influence
the training of the future practitioners. Our MoU with
ALHOSN enables us to impart key skills and knowledge
Commenting on the agreement, Prof. Sabouni
said: “Our partnership with the country’s leading
organization in the engineering profession enables
us to expose our faculty and students to the latest
engineering techniques, trends, and technologies.
More importantly, it introduces our students to reallife applications and, thus enhances the level of their
classroom understanding. Our agreement with the UAE
Society of Engineers reflects our commitment to achieve
high-quality education through the collaboration with
leading enterprises and institutions.”
The UAE Society of Engineers was established
as a semi-government sector and a non-profit
organization in 1979 in support of the national
engineering sector. It has fully accomplished its duties
that included: accrediting engineering certifications,
regulating professional practices, developing
standards and specifications, and improving the skills
and qualifications of UAE engineers. The society
issues several publications including the World of
Engineering magazine, the Consultancy Directory,
and the Building & Construction Directory, actively
participates in engineering-related activities through
the UAE and the GCC, and provides engineering
training through its development center. It will be
relocated to its own building in Al Mamzar, Dubai.
The land for the building is donated by His Excellency
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince
of Dubai.
ALHOSN’s Breakfasts
4
The Human Resource department
at ALHOSN University is hosting biweekly group breakfasts to reflect
the University’s commitment
to provide high standards of
education in a friendly and
sociable atmosphere. The friendly
gatherings vary between indoor
and outdoor buffets and can be
either catered or prepared by the
participants. These breakfasts play
an important part in enhancing
employee relations and taking
them away from their daily routine.
The outdoor sessions during the
winter season refresh their minds
and recharge their energies;
enabling them to continue
maximizing their full potential.
LIBRARY NEWS
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
ALHOSN’s library team had full representation at
the 20th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair. The fair is
widely regarded as the most important professional
book exhibition in the Arab world and was staged
from March 2 to 7, 2010.
The team, which included faculty members,
browsed the collections of several international
publishers’ collections, reviewed their contents and
purchased about 550 English and Arabic titles.
The Abu Dhabi book fair provided an opportunity for
the library to acquaint itself with recent publications
in Engineering, Computing, Management and Social
Sciences and acquire the latest resources to expand its
collection. The library also acquired valuable and rare
titles in Islamic studies, Culture & Heritage, History
and Law.
The team has already catalogued the new titles, and
they are available to users.
To consult the library online catalog, please visit
http://www.alhosnu.ae/WS/Site/Library/default.asp
Alhosn N ews
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Issue 8 | May 2010
New Database
The library is also pleased to announce the
introduction of a new electronic database for the
ALHOSN community. This database was acquired in
response to the growing interest among students and
faculty members. An off-campus feature allows users
to conveniently access the library e-resources from
anywhere in the world.
The new Taylor & Francis Engineering, Computing
& Technology database, Informa World, includes 85
full text e-journals on engineering and computing &
technology subjects.
The library provides training, workshops and
orientation use of its resources.
Other e-resources are currently being evaluated.
ALHOSN’s Appreciation Day honors Students with
Outstanding Extra-curricular Achievements
ALHOSN University honored students with outstanding extracurricular activities during its Appreciation Day that was held at the Male
and Female Campuses on April 28, 2010. Awardees were particularly
commended for their participation in GETEX, the largest education fair
in the Middle East and Asia, and NAJAH, the UAE’s most comprehensive
education, training and careers event.
ALHOSN Vice Chancellor and CEO Prof. Abdul-Rahim Sabouni
personally handed out certificates and gifts to selected students for
setting high standards in volunteer work and acting as role models for
their peers. They were rewarded for their active participation in the
university’s first Career Fair, the recent GETEX exhibition held in Dubai,
and the NAJAH exhibition.
“At ALHOSN, we consider hands-on learning an important part of personal
growth. We constantly encourage our
students to participate in activities
and programs that sharpen their
skills and allow them to contribute
to the community. This year we have
a good roster of awardees that have
proven themselves to be worthy role
models for their fellow students and a
source of pride for the University. We
hope that their peers will follow their
example and engage in productive
extra-curricular activities,” said Ms
Mahasen Al Mahasneh, Academic
& Student Counselor/ Students
Activities Coordinator, ALHOSN
University.
This appreciation day was the
second for the academic year 20092010. The first was held in the fall
semester and rewarded students
who earned the highest grades in
their respective programs.
5
Delegates from the University of Salford
ALHOSN University hosts two distinguished
visited ALHOSN University
faculty members from Kettering University,
Two distinguished visitors from
the University of Salford, UK,
Prof. Martin Hall, Vice Chancellor
and Prof. Ghassan Aouad, Pro‐
Vice Chancellor for Research
& Innovation, visited ALHOSN
University on February 18, 2010.
During their visit, they conducted
meetings with members of
ALHOSN’s University including:
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni,
Vice Chancellor, Dr Hamdi
Sheibani, Provost, Prof. Ahmad
Zohdi, Assistant Provost for
Administrative & Financial Affairs,
Prof. Raymond Tennant, Head
of Effectiveness & Accreditation
Center and Prof. Hassan Mustapha,
Professor and MEd Program
Coordinator.
Prof.
Sabouni
recipient of “OSWALD” Fellowships
delivered a welcome speech that was followed by an introduction about
ALHOSN University by Prof. Tennant. The visitors gave an introduction
about the University of Salford. This was followed by a discussion about
potential fields of collaboration between the two universities.
Carleton’s International Director visits ALHOSN
6
Dr Randy Zadra, Director of
Carleton International Office,
Carleton University, Canada,
visited
ALHOSN
University
on March 8, 2010 to discuss
possible collaborative activities
and program tie-ups. Dr Zadra’s
office handles initiatives related
to international partnerships and
joint ventures.
Dr Zadra was welcomed by
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni Vice
Chancellor & CEO, Dr Hamdi
Sheibani, Provost, Prof. Ahmad
Zohdi, Assistant Provost for
Administrative & Financial Affairs,
Prof. Raymond Tennant ,Head
of Effectiveness & Accreditation
Center, and Prof. Roshdy Hafez,
Professor of Software Engineering
Department.
During his stay, Dr Zadra was
given a tour of ALHOSN’s Campus
and facilities.
Carleton University is a
comprehensive university located
in the Canadian capital Ottawa,
Ontario. It offers over 65 programs
in diverse disciplines including:
public affairs, journalism, film
studies,
engineering,
high
technology, and international
studies.
ALHOSN University was chosen
to host Kettering University’s
Oswald International Faculty
Fellowship. Two distinguished
Professors
from
Kettering
University (Flint, Michigan, United
States) visited ALHOSN from
March 21 to 26, 2010 to participate
in a weeklong series of lectures
and discussions related to their
academic fields.
During their stay, Prof. Basem
Alzahabi, Professor of Mechanical
Engineering, and Prof. David
Strubler, Associate Professor of
Business met with ALHOSN’s
administration
and
faculty
members to discuss opportunities
for collaboration and partnership
between the two universities,
especially in the areas of student
and faculty exchange, and the
sharing of ideas to improve the
academic programs in engineering
and business. The visit is expected
to foster closer relationships
between
higher
educational
institutions in the West and the
East.
Professors
Alzahabi
and
Strubler are recent recipients of
the Oswald International Faculty
Fellowship. The fellowship is
awarded to Kettering faculty
members with a passion to pursue
international teaching and research
opportunities. The Fellowship was
established through a generous
gift from Kettering alumnus and
trustee Bob Oswald and his wife
Marcy. The couple also support
The Oswald International Student
Fellowship
program,
which
provides financial grants to cover
travel and living expenses for 10
Kettering students involved in the
university’s international exchange
program.
Prof. Strubler studied Arab and
Islamic cultures, their business
practices, and their possible
interaction with the Western
Business World. Prof. Alzahabi,
on the other hand, a different
seminars from an international
perspective and participated in
special discussions. The hosting of
the American educators provides
an opportunity to share and
exchange cultural values between
the US and UAE in an effort to
bridge differences between Arab
Alhosn N ews
Alhosn N ews
Issue 8 | May 2010
nations and the West, in line with
the spirit of cooperation, friendship
and understanding as clearly
defined by President Obama during
his 2009 speech in Cairo, Egypt.
“The fellowship arrangement
with Kettering University affirms
ALHOSN’s
commitment
to
expose our students and faculty
to international views. Our guest
professors provide valuable insights
on their respective fields and how
to align western practices with the
unique cultural, social and economic
goals of the UAE and the Middle
East. This initiative complements
efforts to bring Muslim and Western
countries closer together through
peaceful dialogue and collaboration,
especially in socially relevant fields
such as education,” said Prof.
Sabouni, Vice Chancellor & CEO,
ALHOSN University.
Prof. David Strubler
7
MOHESR organized a Quality Assurance
Workshop at ALHOSN University
On April 17, 2010, ALHOSN
University hosted at its men’s
campus a special workshop entitled
“Internal Quality Assurance in
HEIs”. The workshop was delivered
by the renowned researcher,
Professor Hilary Winchester, Pro
Vice Chancellor for Strategy &
Planning at the University of South
Australia . The event was organized
by the Commission for Academic
Accreditation (CAA) from the UAE
Ministry of Higher Education and
Scientific Research.
Prof. Winchester
delivered
similar workshops during the
10th Biennial Conference of the
International Network for Quality
Assurance Agencies in Higher
Education (INQAAHE) that was held
last year in Abu Dhabi. INQAAHE is
a world-wide association of around
200 organizations dedicated to
advancing quality assurance theory
and practice in higher education.
The CAA has invite Prof.
Winchester to provide valuable
insights on Quality Assurance to
the country’s non-federal higher
education institutions.
The
Ministry
of
Higher
Education has welcomed the
following representatives from
ALHOSN to join the workshop:
Prof. Raymond Tennant, Professor
of Mathematics and Head of the
Effectiveness and Accreditation
Center; Prof. Kamel Ghorab, Dean
of Graduate Programs and Director
of the Institutional Research Office;
Prof. Ahmad Zohdi, Dean of the
Faculty of Business and Assistant
Provost for Administrative and
Financial Affairs; Dr Mustapha
Tajdin, Acting Dean and Assistant
Professor of the Faculty of Art
and Social Sciences; and Dr Noha
Hassan, Assistant Professor of the
Faculty of Engineering and Applied
Sciences and Head of the University
General Requirement Unit (UGRU).
states as well as several international colleges and
universities.
One workshop focused on the structure of the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and
the concept of regional accreditation. It also included
the COC accreditation process including steps for
compliance with the standards as covered by the
SACS publication ‘The Principles of Accreditation:
Foundations for Quality Enhancement.
A second workshop centered on the assessment
of institutional effectiveness as a key to develop and
improve academic and administrative programs.
Participants shared the overall planning and evaluation
cycles of their respective institutions and how these
facilitate the achievement of the institution mission
and goals. Specific examples of best practices were
Prof. Sabouni calls for a Higher Investment into
Education at Entrepreneurship 1st Symposium
AHU joined accreditation workshops in the US
8
ALHOSN University participated in
a professional meeting hosted by the
Commission on Colleges (COC) of the
Southern Association of Colleges and
Schools (SACS) at its headquarters in
Decatur, Georgia, USA. SACS-COC is one of
six regional accrediting agencies that accredit
institutions of higher education in the US
as well as internationally. Prof. Raymond
Tennant, Head of ALHOSN’s Effectiveness
and Accreditation Center, represented the
university in a series of workshops that
were held from April 22 to 23, 2010 covering
the accreditation process and the proper
assessment of institutional effectiveness
and included institutions from US southern
given to demonstrate methods that can be used to
further develop institutional effectiveness.
“Our success as an educational institution relies
significantly on our quality control. Accreditation and
periodic assessments of our organizational effectiveness
are crucial to ensure maintaining high levels of quality
that constitute ALHOSN’s obligation to students, their
guardians, and other stakeholders. Our representation
in the SACS-COC workshops reflects our commitment to
adopt world-class standards in all our processes, policies
and standards,” said Prof. Tennant.
ALHOSN University constantly engages in local,
regional and global dialogues to improve the quality
and delivery of its 11 undergraduate programs and 7
graduate programs. These programs are accredited by
the CAA and are open to students of all nationalities.
Alhosn N ews
Alhosn N ews
Issue 8 | May 2010
AHU Vice Chancellor & CEO, Prof.
Sabouni, discussed the importance
of investing in the education sector
and encouraging entrepreneurship
among students during a speech
delivered on April 26, 2010 at the
Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi as
part of the Entrepreneurship First
Symposium.
Held under the theme ‘From
U.A.E. to Washington D.C.: A
New Beginning Realized, the
Symposium
was
conducted
parallel to the Presidential
Summit on Entrepreneurship in
Washington, D.C. Around 250
successful entrepreneurs from
more than 50 countries discussed
ways to advance economical and
social entrepreneurship and to
build networks and partnerships
among stakeholders. The event
fulfilled the pledge made by US
President Barack Obama during his
visit to Cairo, Egypt last year that a
summit dedicated to strengthening
ties
between
American
business leaders, foundations
and entrepreneurs and their
counterparts in Muslim countries
will be organized by USA. In the UAE
symposium, Prof. Sabouni joined
11 other distinguished speakers
who spoke on topics ranging from
entrepreneurship
development
through Public Private Partnerships
to the enhancement of regional
Small and Medium Enterprises.
In his speech, Prof. Sabouni talked
about the economic and academic
benefits of investing in higher
education: “The misconception
that private universities are often
associated with purely commercial
enterprises fails to account for the
optimization, efficiency, quality
control and assurance that are
necessary for their continued
operations in an increasingly
competitive environment. Selfdependent profitable academic
institutions, by default, must rely on
efficient utilization of resources so
that they can continue to produce
academically rigorous programs for
their students.”
“As the UAE continues to
develop at such a rapid pace,
investing in private education can
be both economically sustainable
and
academically
rewarding.
Federal policies and regulations
must continue to support both
individual and corporate initiatives
and foster a culture of innovative
entrepreneurship in all sectors,
especially in higher education,” he
added.
9
A Gala Dinner Celebrated ALHOSN’s Five
AHU joined the 9th Specialized Exhibition of Universities,
Years of Education Leadership
Institutes and University Equipments in Syria
AHU hosted a Gala Dinner on February 28, 2010.
The dinner celebrated ALHOSN’s 5 th anniversary
and was held at the Beach Rotana Hotel in Abu
Dhabi. During the dinner, ALHOSN reaffirmed its
commitment to address the needs of the society,
raise awareness of critical environmental issues,
and maintain its leadership in the educational field.
Employees that have significantly contributed in
achieving ALHOSN’s goals have been honored during
the dinner. Prominent Arab media personality, Mrs
Nashwa Al Ruwaini, CEO of Pyramedia and Director of
the Middle East International Film Festival, was invited
as a guest speaker. Mrs Al Ruwani was among the “30
Awesome Women” list developed by the Arabian
Woman Magazine.
Utilizing the theme of the dinner “5 Years: Promoting
Excellence”, ALHOSN’s major achievements were
summarized. They include:
• Partnership with distinguished organizations
such as the UAE Society of Engineers and the 7i
Institute.
• Expansion of ALHOSN’s national and international
presence through active participation in highprofile events such as the NAJAH educational
expo, GETEX Dubai, and the international
conference that was organized by the Illinois
Institute of Technology Council on Tall Buildings
and Urban Habitat.
• Encouragement of the participation of women in
technical fields by holding the First Annual Women
in Engineering Event in the UAE.
“We would not have attained this level of success
in five years if not for the hard work and commitment
of our community members, our dedicated staff and
professors, and our visionary management. Our students
are at the core of our motivation, and so I would like to
acknowledge their inspirational role as well. I would
also like to extend the University’s gratitude to our
partner organizations, the media, the local government
especially the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific
Research, and the public. You are all in our thoughts
as we celebrate our fifth year,” said Prof. Abdul Rahim
Sabouni, Vice Chancellor & CEO, ALHOSN University.
ALHOSN University joined the 9th Specialized
Exhibition of Universities, Institutes and University
Equipments (EDU, 9, 2010), held from March 9 to 11,
2010, at the Sheraton Hotel in Damascus and from
March 13 to 15, 2010, at the Sheraton Hotel in Aleppo.
ALHOSN’s representatives discussed our leading
academic programs to more than 16,000 Syrian
students.
Held under the patronage of Syrian Minister of
Higher Education, H.E. Dr Ghiath Barakat, and
organized by Al Haitham Exhibitions and Conferences
in coordination with the Ministry of Education, the
event is regarded as the largest gathering of public
Alhosn E vents
Alhosn E vents
Issue 8 | May 2010
and private educational institutions from Syria and
other Arab and foreign countries. Over 40 universities
from countries including the UAE, Jordan, Egypt,
Malaysia, France, Canada, North Cyprus, and China
discussed their respective programs, policies, special
activities, and services. Aside from exposure to
various international schools, participants were also
invited to view the products and services of around 50
exhibitors.
ALHOSN representatives met with students from
the top schools in Damascus, Aleppo, and surrounding
provinces and informed them about the realities of
higher education and ALHOSN’s unique curricular and
extra-curricular approach.
“Since we opened our doors, five years ago, we are
accepting students regardless of their race, gender, or
nationality. EDU.9 provided us with the opportunity
to explain why talented Syrian students can gain a
competitive edge in their chosen line of studies by joining
ALHOSN. During our stay, we realized and appreciated
the Syrian’s efforts to provide the youth with various
educational options. Moreover, we interacted with our
peers from abroad and shared our views on how to
further improve the quality of education,” said Nadine
Kanj, Marketing & PR Manager, ALHOSN University.
AHU joins UAE’s Top Academic Services
Providers at ZADCO Education Fair
10
AHU demonstrated how its
engineering programs complement
energy developments in Abu Dhabi
and across the UAE during the
Zakum Development Company
(ZADCO) Education Fair which was
held from the 17 th to the 24th March,
2010 at the Sheikh Khalifa Complex
in Abu Dhabi.
ALHOSN was chosen along with
26 other educational institutions
to familiarize ZADCO and the
local community with the UAE’s
top education providers. The
University exhibited its programs
11
and services alongside prominent
institutions such as the Ministry
of Higher Education and Scientific
Research, the UAE Army, the
ADNOC Technical Institute, and
the Masdar Institute of Science and
Technology, among others.
According to Prof. Ahmed
Zohdi, Assistant Provost for
Administrative & Financial Affairs,
ALHOSN University: “ZADCO’s
educational fair provides an excellent
opportunity for ALHOSN to highlight
its significant achievements and
social contributions in its five years
of promoting academic excellence”.
Prof. Zohdi added that the event
would also give ZADCO and other
delegates a chance to assess how
the skills of ALHOSN’s students
can be aligned with their particular
organizational needs. He expressed
the university’s desire to match
engineering skills acquired by its
students to energy development
needs in Abu Dhabi and throughout
the Emirates.
ALHOSN’s Department of Architectural Engineering
hosted the “Foundations for the Future Forum”
ALHOSN joined the 2010 Global Conference for
Technology & Innovation in Education at GETEX
AHU participated in the 2010
inaugural Global Conference for
Technology and Innovation in
Education at the Gulf Education
and Training Exhibition (GETEX),
the largest education fair in
the Middle East and Asia. The
conference held in UAE from April
14 to 17 at the Dubai International
Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The Conference was a joint
initiative between International
Conferences and Exhibitions LLC
(IC&E) and International Society
for Technology in Education
(ISTE). ALHOSN Vice Chancellor
12
& CEO Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni
attended the conference to judge
on the university’s programs and
activities as compared to the
top international universities.
He gained knowledge about the
latest regional and international
educational trends. This year’s
edition of GETEX Dubai offered
a complete networking forum
covering student recruitment,
training, education technology,
academic alliances, and cultural
expression. It also featured forums,
workshops, and seminars that held
concurrently with the exhibition.
“ALHOSN fully recognizes the
importance of acquiring the latest
and best academic practices and
tools to fulfill its commitment of
providing world-class education.
GETEX, in particular, is an excellent
venue to know more about how the
region is expanding its educational
system and constantly adopting
global benchmarks. The conference is
a welcome addition especially as the
region’s governments are focusing
on the creation of digital societies.”
said Nadine Kanj, Marketing and PR
Manager, ALHOSN University.
The Department of Architectural
Engineering at ALHOSN University,
hosted the “Foundations for
the Future Forum” at its Male
Campus. Representatives from top
architectural firms such as Burt Hill,
Atkins (Middle East and India), and
Architects were present.
Academic and professional
architects
discussed
issues,
trends, and challenges within the
architectural field. The forum
provided the definition for the
skills, educational standards,
and best professional practices
required from students aspiring to
join the architectural profession.
Prof. Sabouni, opened the forum
by welcoming the audience. This
was followed by a presentation
by Dr Naima Benkari, Chair
and Assistant Professor of the
Department
of
Architectural
Engineering, giving an overview
about
the
curriculum
and
achievements of the Department
of Architectural Engineering. A
second presentation by Mr Ivar
Krasinski, principal, Burt Hill,
discussed high and low-tech
approaches to achieve efficiency.
Sessions
concentrating
on
architectural trends in the Gulf and
educating future engineers were
then held and were moderated by
Dr Mohamed Kashef, Assistant
Academic N ews
Alhosn E vents
Issue 8 | May 2010
Professor,
Department
of
Architectural Engineering, and Dr
Benkari. The closing remarks were
delivered by Dr Hamdi Sheibani,
Provost and Dean of ALHOSN’s
Faculty of Engineering and Applied
Sciences. The Forum ended with
nominations for the University’s
Architectural Engineering Advisory
Board.
About the motivations for
establishing the forum, Dr Benkari
said: “Several factors such as
technological innovations and the
current economic recession have
created numerous challenges for
the architectural profession. We
need to consolidate our regional
views so that we can come up with
appropriate and creative solutions
and convey them accordingly to the
next generation of practitioners.
Moreover, we are confident that this
event will help pave the way for the
development of better theoretical
and practical foundations for Middle
Eastern architecture”.
Promotion of Two of ALHOSN’s Faculty members
ALHOSN community congratulates both doctors
on this career milestone. Their valuable contributions
to the growth and success of their respective
departments are mostly appreciated.
Two of ALHOSN’s Assistant Professors, Dr Shaniz
Khan from the Department of Business Administration
and Dr Tarik Aouam from the Department of Industrial
Engineering, were promoted to the rank of Associate
Professor.
13
Regional Manager from Emerald Group
Delivered a Seminar at ALHOSN
Alastair Cook, Regional Manager
and Vice President Middle East,
Maghreb & Turkey of Emerald
Group
Publishing
Limited,
delivered a seminar entitled
“An Insider’s Guide to Getting
Published in Research Journals”
on March 4, 2010 at ALHOSN’s
Male Campus. Mr Cook was invited
by the University’s Business
Administration Department.
MIS Department hosts ICT security workshop
AHU’s MIS Department hosted
a workshop at its Men and Women
Campuses on February 22, 2010.
The workshop title was “Are You
e-Secure? The ICT Security Issues
and Remedies” and included seminars by Bassam Al-Badawi, Director
and IT Consultant at the Abu Dhabi Naturalization and Residency
Directorate, Ali Jamshed Khan Managing Director and Information
Security Consultant at eSecure Solutions, and Mohammad Al-Hassan,
Abu Dhabi Police General Head Quarter’s Information Technology and
Telecom Department. Topics included the application of IT security
to major projects, security awareness, and various forms of hacking as
well as how to detect them. Real-life case studies were presented and a
panel discussion was also held for the guests to entertain questions from
the audience. The workshop was coordinated by Dr Mhmed Zineddine,
Chair and Assistant Professor of the MIS Department and Ms Huda Kindi,
Teaching Assistant, MIS Department.
Urban Planning Seminar Series
14
The Department of Urban Planning hosts the
Planning Lecture Series to facilitate a conversation
amongst industry and academia from a variety of
disciplines and fields. Our hope here at ALHOSN is to
help raise awareness and ultimately cement a culture
of planning and urban design within the region.
The 2009-2010 Planning Lecture Series featured
the following scholars:
April 27, 2010 - “The Art and Science of Planning”:
Professor Richard LeGates, Fulbright Senior Specialist,
Professor Emeritus of Urban Studies and Planning, at
San Francisco State University.
April 1, 2010 - “Quality Urban Spaces”: Professor
John Lang, Emeritus Professor of Architecture at the
University of New South Wales.
March 4, 2010 - “The Atlas: Tool for the Analysis
of Metropolitan Regions”: Professor Philippe Cadéne
from University of Paris 7.
February 24, 2010 - “The Legal Fallout of the
Financial Crisis in Dubai”: Dr. Doraliz Ortiz, Al-Sayyah
law firm, Dubai
IIE @ ALHOSN 2010
During its second annual meeting, held on April
19, 2010 at ALHOSN’s Male Campus, the Industrial
Engineering department introduced the newly
established student chapter for the Institute of
Industrial Engineers (IIE) at ALHOSN University, the
second IIE student chapter in the UAE.
IIE is the world’s largest professional society
dedicated solely to the support of the industrial
engineering profession. Founded in 1948, IIE is an
international, nonprofit association that provides
leadership for the application, education, training,
research, and development of industrial engineering.
The objectives of the IIE student chapter at ALHOSN
University are:
• Promote the profession of Industrial
Engineering through organized efforts in
study, research and discussion of the fields of
Industrial Engineering and the dissemination of
the knowledge thereby gained.
• Promote membership in IIE by acquainting
the student body with the ideas, purposes and
objectives of IIE.
• Create a link between ALHOSN, local industry,
regional schools, and alumni.
IE @ ALHOSN 2010 gathered prominent figures
from the public and private sectors, as well as
regional academia, and students to share insights on
how IE could solve the challenges faced by different
organizations in the UAE.
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni, Vice Chancellor
and CEO of ALHOSN University, gave the opening
speech. Mr Mohammed Fakhreddin, Vice-President
of ALHOSN University IIE Student Chapter, explained
the rationale behind the student chapter. Mr Mohamed
Academic N ews
Academic N ews
Issue 8 | May 2010
Ahmed Al Neaimi, Executive Manager of the Abu
Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, delivered
a lecture entitled “Abu Dhabi 2010-2030: Supporting
the Growth of the Emirate.”
Senior students from the Industrial Engineering
Department showcased practical applications of IE
concepts and organized a poster session during the
afternoon. Dr Hamdi Sheibani, Provost and Dean,
Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences, delivered
the closing address.
New Appointments
Maged Youssef
Visiting Associate Professor / Civil Engineering Department
Faculty of Engineering & Applied Sciences
PhD in Civil Engineering, 2000,Canada
McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
Thesis: Modeling of Existing and Rehabilitated RC Buildings
15
ALHOSN’s 1st Annual iDesign Summit discusses
ALHOSN University Graduate receives
Future of Interior Design Profession in the Region
Distinguished Abu Dhabi Award
ALHOSN University gathered
leading industry professionals and
members of academia to discuss
the role of interior design in the
UAE during its 1st Annual iDesign
Summit held on April 27, 2010 at
the university’s Male Campus.
Hosted
by
ALHOSN’s
Department of Interior Design,
iDesign extensively assessed the
relationship between industry
and academia, the practices
and trends affecting the UAE’s
rapidly growing interior design
market, and the future of the
interior
design
profession.
Demand for interior design
services is expected to surge with
an expected AED 53.8 billion in
interior design contracts and fitouts to be spent in the Emirates
within this year.
“The development of public
and private spaces in the UAE
continues to progress at a rapid
pace, and so the question for
interior designers is where should
the field be heading amidst such
growth? There are many policy,
practice and academic issues
that need to be considered in
this regards. “iDesign goal is to
provide a forum for practitioners
and stakeholders to start asking
critical questions and come up
with viable answers. The Summit
also enables us to emphasize
the importance of establishing
closer ties between industry and
academia, so that the programs
created by educational institutions
complement actual workplace
requirements,” said Dr Seif Khiati,
Assistant Professor and Chair
of Interior Design Department,
ALHOSN University.
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni,
Vice
Chancellor
&
CEO,
inaugurated the summit with
his welcoming address. Keynote
speakers included Mr Fernando
Arteaga, Associate Director, HBA
Design Consultants; Mr Daniel
Hajjar, Senior Vice President Regional Manager MENA, HOK;
and Arch. Iacopo Mannelli and
Arch. Cecilia Morosi, from ASZ
Architetti, based in Florence
and Abu Dhabi. Representatives
from industry and academia also
joined a panel discussion on job
market conditions; the gender
gap in the design fields; the future
and significance of interior design
as a profession in the UAE and
throughout the Middle East; and
the nature of interior design and
its relation to architecture. Dr Seif
Khiati moderated the discussions.
New Appointments
Candy Lim Chiu
Assistant Professor of Management / Faculty of Business
PhD in Economics, 2009, Japan
16
Kyoto University, Japan
Thesis: The Roots of Philippine Automobile Industry Backwardness:
Automobile Stranded in Traffic
Saleh Al Yarabi, a graduate of
ALHOSN University, personally
received the distinguished Abu
Dhabi Award from H.H. Sheikh
Mohammed bin Zayed, the Crown
Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy
Supreme Commander of the
Armed Forces, during a ceremony
at the Emirates Palace. Al Yarabi
and eight other individuals received
this award, the Emirate’s highest
civilian honor that was established
S tudent Activities
Academic N ews
Issue 8 | May 2010
in 2005, for their valuable
contributions to society. More
than 16,000 nominees underwent
a stringent six-month selection to
choose the nine winners.
Al Yarabi graduated from
ALHOSN University with a
Bachelor’s Degree in Management
Information Systems on November
18, 2009. He originally moved from
Oman to Abu Dhabi in 1978 and
has been using a wheelchair since
the age of 18. The inspirational
awardee has written several books
and newspaper articles and has
regularly delivered motivational
speeches. H.H. Sheikh Mohammed
knelt beside Al Yarabi and kissed his
forehead in a show of admiration
for his remarkable achievements
despite being handicap.
ALHOSN University celebrated the Cultivating of CrossCultural Harmony during the 4th International Day
AHU
organized
its
4th
International Day on Wednesday
February 17, 2010. This day signifies
the critical importance of unity and
mutual respect among different
cultures and nationalities in the
distinctly cosmopolitan society of
the UAE.
Teams made up of faculty,
staff, and students delivered
presentations and conducted
exhibitions
that
represented
different countries and cultures.
At least sixteen countries were
represented
including:
UAE,
Algeria, Egypt, India, Iran, Iraq,
Japan, Jordan, Korea, Lebanon,
Libya, Morocco, Palestine, Sudan,
Syria and Tunisia.
Commenting on the event, Ms
Mahasen Al Mahasneh, Academic
& Student Counsellor/ Student
Activity Coordinator, said: “The
UAE features a unique fusion of
people from different cultures and
nationalities. This fusion reflects the
broadmindedness of the country’s
leaders and indicates the loving
and tolerant nature of the Emirates’
people”.
“The International Day celebration
manifests ALHOSN University’s
commitment to help promote and
maintain the cross-cultural harmony
in our society. The efforts have
helped driving greater awareness
about the importance of unity and
mutual respect among people of
different cultures and nationalities”,
added Ms Ghada Qabha, Student
Affairs Director.
17
ALHOSN University holds 1st Annual Career Fair
ALHOSN University created an
opportunity for its students and
alumni to meet leading employers
during its recently held 1st Annual
Career Fair.
The fair provided a platform for
ALHOSN students and alumni to
network with local and regional
industry leaders, learn about
available career opportunities, and
explore various internship and/or
training prospects. Participating
companies and organizations had
the opportunity to advertise their
vacant positions, identify potential
recruits, and increase their visibility
among students, alumni, and
the entire ALHOSN community.
Students focused on opportunities
in Engineering and Applied
Sciences, Business, and Arts and
Social Sciences, which form the
core of ALHOSN’s academic
programs.
“Regional governments, including
the UAE, have moved swiftly
to protect their workforce from
the economic downturn through
initiatives such as the establishment
of enhanced legal rights for the
employees and the softening of
laws dealing with job transfers.
These initiatives helped our region
to keep its position as one of the
top employment destinations in
the Middle East. Our inaugural
job fair was an excellent venue for
matching the skills of our students
and alumni with the available
employment opportunities. The fair
allowed ALHOSN’s staff to learn
more about the current needs of the
evolving regional and international
job markets. Thus, they will be
able to ensure that our programs
are competitive as they allow us to
deliver graduates who are ready to
make immediate impacts when they
enter the workforce,” said Mahasen
Al Mahasneh, Career Development
Coordinator/ Student Activities
Coordinator, Academic & Student
Counselor, ALHOSN University.
S tudent Activities
S tudent Activities
Issue 8 | May 2010
ALHOSN University: Tapping on Experimental
Learning to Sharpen Student Skills
18
The famous scientist Albert
Einstein once said, that “the only
source of knowledge is experience”.
While most of the university classes
lay out theoretical groundwork,
true knowledge is only gained when
students apply the information
they have accumulated to practical
and real-life situations.
Experimental learning is a highly
effective educational method as it
directly addresses the needs of the
learner and promotes important
qualities such as self-initiative
19
and self-assessment. This process
enables students to enhance
existing skills and acquire new
ones, adopt new attitudes, and in
many cases even develop new ways
of thinking.
AHU is a firm supporter of
experimental learning. It regularly
exposes its students to training
activities that closely simulate
professional
environments.
Recently, the University invited
students from its Software
Engineering Department to help
update ALHOSN’s website and
develop a new Library Website
and a new University Directory.
The university could have opted to
utilize the services of professional
website developers, but instead it
took the opportunity to immerse
students in an IT department
setting.
Shaden Khaled Saleh, Hussain
Mohammad Al Bloushi, Heba
Adnan Al-Assi, Nadine Nabeel
Shaaban, Sarah Fadel Abdo, and
Eman Mohamed Daoud were
chosen for the project. While
Nadine, Eman, Hussain and Sarah
performed data entry for the
University website, Eman and
Hussain provided the necessary
HTML and CSS coding. Shaden
did HTML/ CSS coding and data
entry for the Library Website and
the University Website Directory.
Heba analyzed if the university
Exam Schedule Generator and
the Transcript Processing system
are achieving their set goals. The
participating students had very
positive comments about their
experiences.
Shaden: “My work with the
IT Department taught me the
importance of commitment and time
management. It also helped me gain
technical experience and was an
opportunity for me to learn how to
work on different tasks.”
Hussain: “I thank
the IT department
for their full support
and for giving me
the chance to show
my skills and use them to build
ALHOSN’s Website. This experience
has helped me a lot in learning many
website development techniques
and skills.”
Heba: “Working with the IT
projects gave me a good glimpse of
how it would be like to have a career
in software engineering. I had the
opportunity to understand numerous
testing concepts and handle different
issues and situations.”
Nadine:
“This was such a
great experience. I gained a lot
of knowledge and learned the
importance of planning and
organizing a job.”
Sarah: “This was a highly
satisfying experimental activity.
I acquired valuable experience in
editing HTML code and handling
web-based applications.”
Eman: “The projects
helped enrich my skills
and provided me with
practical and technical
experience. They also
taught me how to properly schedule
my time and manage available
resource to achieve satisfying results
in my work, study and social life.”
This student-supported project
reflects ALHOSN’s commitment
to create a learning model
where students get to work with
professional departments. The
results benefit both the students
and the departments involved and
strengthen ALHOSN’s image as a
center for ‘Global knowledge with
local vision’ as well.
Urban Planning Department Activities:
ALHOSN Students Visited
Historic Bastakiya
20
On March 8, 2010, the
Department of Urban Planning
organized a trip to two historic
districts in Dubai, Al Bastakiya and
Al Shindagha. Students from the
departments of urban planning,
architecture, and interior design
accompanied by Dr Adnan Husnéin
took a step back in time to the
days before electricity and airconditioning and explored the
districts’ traditional courtyard
houses and winding streets. Al
Bastakiya, a historic center that
dates back to the mid-nineteenth
century, is renowned for its classic
barjeels or wind-catchers. Today,
some of these structures have
been converted to museums
displaying local culture and
heritage while some house modern
art galleries. At Al Shindagha,
students took a memorable abra
cruise along Dubai’s creek (Khor) .
As students were eager to record
their experiences, some sketched
or took snapshots of their favorite
urban design elements and others
just soaked it all in.
A special ‘Thank you’ goes to
our tour guide, Mr Waleed Nabil,
of the Sheikh Mohammed Center
for
Cultural
Understanding,
Mr Abdullah of the House of
Traditional Architecture and our
own staff members, Ms Mahasen
Al Mahasneh and Arch. Ahmad
Dhiaeldeen, who came along to
assist students during the trip.
Al Mirfa Planning
Design Studio
Students enrolled in the Planning
Design Studio II (UPL 305) worked
on a master plan for the town of Al
Mirfa in the western region. As part
of their research, they conducted a
site visit to the area on February 9,
2010 to collect data and explore
the town’s physical, biological
and cultural attributes. Planning
students met with officials from
the Western Region Municipality
(WRM) and discussed their future
projects and the ongoing planning
process. Students learned how the
municipality in partnership with
the Urban Planning Council had
solicited public input by holding
community majlises throughout
the process. WRM’s Mr Musabah
Almarar helped facilitate the trip.
S tudent Activities
S tudent Activities
Issue 8 | May 2010
ALHOSN Launches a Reading Club
ALHOSN University established
a Reading Club. Dr Mohammed
Saeed Hasab Al Nabi, Assistant
Professor at the Department of Education, is acting as the supervisor and
coordinator for the club activities. The newly-formed club will encourage
students to read more, which will further expand their knowledge as well
as broaden their cultural awareness.
Several university students, faculty members and employees have
signed up with the club. An introductory seminar is to be held to outline
the club activities, goals and programs.
ALHOSN Reading Club reviewed the work
of a Talented Young Iraqi Writer
ALHOSN University’s Reading
Club recently analyzed the work of
the gifted young Iraqi writer, Louay
Khalid. The group discussed the
young boy’s exceptional literary
piece entitled “My Iraqi Friend”,
which narrates the experiences and
impressions of both Khalid and his
Iraqi school friend .
The session was headed by
Dr Mohamed Saeed Hasb AlNabi, Assistant Professor at the
Department of Education and the
club’s supervisor. Dr Hasb Al-Nabi
initially discovered Khalid’s unique
writing skills and introduced him
to the media two years ago. This
was shortly after the publication of
the young boy’s first literary work,
“There is a Cat in Our House.”
Dr Hasb Al-Nabi gave a detailed
presentation of the story’s main
struggles and pointed out Khalid’s
skillful expression
and their
aspects. He also talked about
factors that nourish Khalid’s talent,
how a person’s environment
21
can stimulate creativity, and the
vital role of the family in the
development of the skills
of
their children. Female students,
instructors
and
university
employees listened attentively to
Dr Hasb Al Nabi’s remarks.
ALHOSN University shouldered
the costs for publishing Louay
Khalid’s “My Iraqi Friend” through
the patronage and sponsorship
of Vice Chancellor and CEO,
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni, and
Provost and Dean of the Faculty of
Engineering and Applied Sciences,
Dr Hamdi Sheibani. The two officials
extended their full assistance to
make the literary piece available
to the public, reflecting the
University commitment to identify
and nurture extraordinarily gifted
members of society.
During the recent Abu Dhabi
Book Expo, Louay Khalid happily
autographed copies of “My Iraqi
Friend” at the Algerian Education
wing in the presence of the Algerian
ambassador, Prof. Sabouni, Dr
Hamdi Sheibani, Dr Hasb Al
Nabi, ALHOSN instructors, the
headmaster of Al-Nahda School
where Khalid is currently studying,
and a number of his teachers. Many
people have been expressing their
delight at the publication of the
story.
ALHOSN’s Students build a Display Area
at Cityscape Abu Dhabi 2010
ALHOSN University announced
that BDP, one of the top architectural
firms in the UK, commissioned
ALHOSN architecture students
to participate in designing and
building a display area for entries
to ‘Places for People’ competition.
The display area was part of the
prestigious Cityscape Abu Dhabi
2010, International Real Estate
Investment and Development
Event, that ran from April 18 to 21,
2010 at the Abu Dhabi’s National
Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
BDP Abu Dhabi’s Director,
Nadine
Nackasha,
visited
22
ALHOSN’s
Studio
Building
to outline the project to the
participating students, who are
granted a summer internship at
BDP. Nackasha explained that the
display area houses entries to the
‘Places for People’ regional school
competition that is organized by
BDP and reflects design elements
needed to create special places
for people to live. The entire
construction process of the display
area was covered by local media.
Participants received a special
award from the BDP CEO Council
during Cityscape Abu Dhabi’s
Opening Ceremony.
“The BDP project is a great
opportunity
for
ALHOSN’s
architecture students to showcase
their world-class skills. At the same
time, it provides an opportunity
for our university to help promote
our talented architectural program
to a regional audience. Moreover,
as the UK’s top architectural firm,
BDP is an excellent partner for us to
advance our institutional philosophy
of global knowledge with local
vision,” said Dr Naima Benkari, Chair
of the Department of Architecture,
ALHOSN University.
AHU’s Annual “Open Day” Highlights Support for
Abu Dhabi Educational Council Development Plan
ALHOSN University affirmed its
commitment to support Abu Dhabi
Educational Council’s (ADEC) five
year development plan during its
annual “Open Day” that was held
on Wednesday March 3, 2010 at the
Ground Floor of its Male Campus.
Last year, ADEC outlined a
comprehensive plan to develop the
local educational sector by focusing
on multiple factors such as human
resources, technology, leadership,
communication
with
society
members, students’ assessment,
and school environment. ALHOSN
explained
its
methods
for
promoting development in these
areas to visitors and prospective
students.
The
university
departments set up booths to
showcase their programs, courses,
activities, and student projects.
An on-site tour was conducted to
introduce key personnel and to visit
major facilities.
“I often encourage those
interested in joining ALHOSN’s
family to share our goal of upholding
S tudent Activities
S tudent Activities
Issue 8 | May 2010
the UAE’s rich tradition while
fostering a culture of creative
thinking and global awareness.
Our annual Open Day enables us
to send this message across while
affirming our active participation in
the emirate’s long-term educational
development goals. We once again
invite the youth of Abu Dhabi who
want to make a difference to join
us in pursuing our vision of global
growth with local vision,” said Ghada
Qabha, Director of Student Affairs,
ALHOSN University.
ALHOSN University Architecture Student
wins Design Competition
ALHOSN
University
has
announced the winners of a design
competition held as part of the
Dubai leg of the Gulf Education
and Training Exhibition (GETEX)
2010. The exhibition is the largest
educational fair in the Middle East
and Asia and took place from
April 14 to 17, 2010 at the Dubai
International Convention and
Exhibition Centre.
ALHOSN’s
students
were
challenged to design innovative
display
spaces
that
would
communicate effectively with
exhibition participatnts. Each
23
S tudent Activities
entry had to include a small conference area along
with other defined display elements. Around 25
sophomores from ALHOSN’s Interior Design and
Architectural Engineering departments participated
in the competition. A panel of judges composed
of faculty from the Interior Design, Architectural
Engineering and Urban Planning departments as well
as members of the University’s marketing department
selected the top three entries.
According to the Vice Chancellor of the university,
Prof. Abdul Rahim Sabouni,“GETEX guests were
impressed with the quality and unique concept of the
winning entries. This proves the exceptional design
skills of our interior design and architectural engineering
students. We intend to launch similar competitions
to broaden the exposure of our students and motivate
them to be more innovative and inspired in their chosen
field. We would like to commend the interior design
and architectural engineering departments for fully
supporting the works of their students”
The winners were Bushra Shurrab (First Place), Reem
Zaidan (Second Place), and Khawla Madi (Third Place), all
representing ALHOSN’s Department of Architectural
Engineering. Although some modifications were made
to the winning design to facilitate manufacturing, the
principal design elements provided by the student will
remain unchanged.
Speak Louder, Student Council & Green Club hold Special
Cultural & Environmental Activities
24
ALHOSN’s Speak Louder, Student Council and
Green Club held a number of activities in support of
culture and the environment during the last week of
April 2010.
The three student organizations jointly sponsored
a ‘Green Week’ during which they encouraged
more awareness on the dangers of global warming,
highlighted by the screening and review of two
documentaries: ‘Home’ and ‘An Inconvenient
Truth.’ Home (2009) uniquely portrays the Earth
as an organism, while the
controversial Oscar-winning
An Inconvenient Truth
(2006) documents former
US Vice President Al Gore’s
campaign to make global
warming a priority issue for
humanity. The films were shown
separately at the Men’s and
Women’s Campuses on April 27 and 29.
Speak Louder, ALHOSN’s Humanitarian Club,
gave away baked goods and promoted its programs
and activities at the Women’s Campus last April 28.
Members were stationed at the foyer of the first
floor offered free desserts and encouraged students
to join the club and to support student activities.
Speak Louder also launched the ‘Palestinian Recipe
Collection,’ a special cookbook celebrating the culture
and traditions of Palestine. They will be collecting
recipes throughout the month of May.
For more information about Speak Louder please
contact: [email protected]