On April 8th, 2025, we hosted an insightful #illuminateByMeritto webinar with Dr. Adham Fayad, Assistant Professor in Business Management at De Montfort University. The session focused on The UAE Student Engagement Playbook for Transnational Education. This blog highlights the key takeaways from the discussion, offering valuable strategies for educational institutions in the UAE and beyond.
The Changing Landscape of Transnational Education
Dr. Fayad discussed the evolving dynamics of transnational education, particularly in the UAE, which has become a global knowledge hub. The competition among international universities setting up campuses in the region is increasing, leading to an emphasis on creating more personalized, engaging learning experiences. This is especially important as students today expect not only academic excellence but also industry-relevant learning that prepares them for the workforce.
Evolving Student Attitudes
The students of today are impatient, seeking quick results in their education. Dr. Fayad emphasized that students now want to apply their learning directly and immediately, preparing for the job market with relevant skills. Universities in the UAE and worldwide must adjust their offerings to meet these demands, providing a clear link between academic learning and career readiness.
Embracing Cultural Diversity
Dr. Fayad also highlighted the importance of cultural diversity in the classroom, which brings a rich set of global perspectives. However, he also acknowledged the challenges that come with it, such as cultural sensitivity and communication barriers. Institutions need to create an environment where students can thrive in a multicultural setting, which is key to fostering meaningful engagement.
Leveraging Technology and Personalization
In response to evolving student needs, Dr. Fayad discussed how universities are increasingly turning to technology to offer personalized learning journeys. Using tools like competency-based learning and studying learning patterns, universities can cater to students’ unique needs, ensuring they receive the right support at the right time.
The Role of AI and Industry Experience
AI was another major topic in the webinar. Dr. Fayad discussed how AI can assist faculty by handling administrative tasks, allowing educators to focus more on personalized teaching. Furthermore, job simulations and technology-driven solutions are becoming increasingly popular in education, bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world skills.
The Future of Education in the UAE
The UAE continues to be a pioneer in technology and knowledge, making it an attractive destination for international students. Many leading universities are now setting up campuses in the region, recognizing the UAE’s potential to become a hub for higher education in the Middle East.
Engaging Students: The Key Principle
Dr. Fayad shared an essential principle for student engagement: making the experience personal and culturally smart. In the UAE, where students come from diverse backgrounds, institutions must tailor their engagement strategies to the needs and preferences of each student. This could mean using culturally relevant materials, adopting technology to create interactive learning environments, or involving students in their learning process to enhance understanding.
Advice for Education Leaders
Dr. Fayad concluded the webinar with some practical advice for education leaders:
- Embrace Change: Adapt to cultural trends and student demands.
- Student-Centered Approach: Actively involve students in shaping their learning experience.
- Incorporate Current Trends: Include sustainability, digitization, and other modern trends in the curriculum.
Wrapping Up
The webinar provided actionable insights on how universities in the UAE and beyond can enhance student engagement, improve their curriculum, and stay competitive in the ever-changing educational landscape. As institutions strive to meet the evolving expectations of students, it is essential to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new trends, technologies, and teaching methodologies.
If you missed the session, you can watch the full webinar here for more insights and practical strategies for engaging students and transforming education
