Dr. Assem Al-Hajj represented KIC at the eForum “Education Revolution” where the panelists discussed various facings, challenges, and implications of the changing education landscape.

The eForum was organized by The Business Year Events and brought up different topics pertaining to the contemporary dynamics of the education sector. Although COVID-19  was the catalyst for the increased adoption of Distance Learning, the impact stretches far beyond the current needs and challenges, unveiling the concepts of blended learning, introductions simulators, and the use of AI in the near future.  In all cases, technology and advanced IT-based infrastructure is a clear roadmap for any educational institution.

As mentioned by Dr. Al-Hajj, "IT helped in responding to the pandemic. We’ve been cautious about the ways we reacted to the developments. We constantly received guidelines from the authorities, indicating the level of intensive work to catch up with the situation and reach the right decisions".




Panelists, Dr. Kenneth Vedra, Mr. Geoffrey Alphonso, and Dr. Assem Al-Hajj, highlighted that there was no chance to ease in when it comes to adapting to the distance learning platform. The situation did not leave any choice. As Dr. Assem mentioned, KIC's response was swift and proactive. In two weeks, the necessary training was conducted. The commitment and cooperation exhibited by the students, faculty, staff, and suppliers, made the shift as smooth and easy as it could be.

Students satisfaction is extremely high with KIC online teaching, learning and support services to help with the transition. This was manifested in increased interactions and in-class engagements. 

Beyond the achievements that are related to distance learning, KIC president highlighted the college's strategic approach when it comes to growth and program diversification. KIC growth lies in its alignment with Abu Dhabi 2030 vision. This vision is focused on STEM based disciplines, among which medical programs represent significant importance. The newly introduced medical programs, namely Emergency Medical Care and Respiratory Care, are now at the forefront of demand, considering the pandemic.

The panelists agreed that these changes were only feasible with the strategic vision and wise leadership of the UAE.

Last but not least, the session highlighted that the newly adopted formats of distance learning, as well as the upcoming learning formats, will take into account students with special needs. "Nobody will be disadvantaged."
 

KIC saw a 23% year-on-year increase in registrations as opposed to the previous Summer I semester, indicating that students are recognizing associated benefits offered at the college.

The enrollment report came out as soon as the registration doors closed, showcasing increasing interest in KIC. Students are flocking around the college recognizing the enrollment benefits. Traditionally, students would join KIC to benefit from applied learning, a flexible environment, and friendly campus life. Now, having witnessed the successful digital transformation, current and future students are confident with the level of Distance Learning Competence.

This is further evident with Summer II pre-registrations, which are already at 85%. This trust echoes the success of digital transformation, KIC has witnessed during Spring 19/20. 

Students have responded extremely positively to the transformation to online learning. Attendance was excellent and the percentage of active students reached beyond 90%. total attended seats racked at 47K seats and 4.8K face-to-face hours during the Spring semester. Another important aspect of distance learning is related to examinations. Amounting to 4,345 exam instances, 183 exams were conducted. KIC also introduced extracurricular activities to venture beyond the distance learning experience.

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