Return to In-Person Learning Across HCT Campuses Nationwide
H.E. Dr. Faisal Alayyan, President & CEO of the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), affirmed that the resumption of in-person learning reflects the UAE’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the continuity of education and providing students with a stable and seamless learning experience under all circumstances.
He noted that, with the return to campus, HCT welcomed more than 24,000 students across its campuses nationwide, in addition to approximately 2,500 academic and administrative staff, within a well-equipped and safe learning environment that supports the continued delivery of education.
Dr. Alayyan added that the return to campuses has revived the direct and interactive learning experience, enabling students to benefit from HCT’s applied learning model, which plays a key role in enhancing student engagement and enriching their overall academic experience. He also expressed his pleasure at seeing students’ enthusiasm and positive energy at the start of this phase.
He further emphasized that the smooth and efficient continuation of the educational process reflects the UAE’s integrated efforts and underscores the country’s high level of readiness and flexibility in navigating various circumstances.
Students’ Perspectives on the Return to In-Person Learning
HCT Students: Happy to Be Back on Campus and Proud of the UAE’s Success in Overcoming Challenges
Heba Aljunaibi, a fourth-year Applied Media student, highlighted the importance of returning to in-person learning, particularly as she is in her final year specializing in video production. She noted that most of their coursework involves practical projects, which require access to campus facilities and advanced equipment to produce high-quality films. She also praised the strong support provided by faculty members and academic supervisors during the period of distance learning, which helped students overcome various challenges.
Alreem Almheiri, a third-year Computer Information Science student, expressed her happiness about returning to campus. While many of her courses could continue online due to the availability of virtual labs, she emphasized her preference for in-person learning because of the greater communication and interaction with faculty, as well as the overall campus environment. She also noted that HCT campuses are fully prepared to receive students, particularly in terms of safety awareness and precautionary measures.
Fatima Alshehhi, a fourth-year Mechatronics Engineering student and President of the Ras Al Khaimah Campus Student Council, explained that engineering students had resumed attendance two weeks earlier as part of a phased return due to the practical nature of their specialization. This allowed them to benefit significantly from access to applied laboratories and contributed to their strong performance in examinations. She acknowledged the substantial support provided by faculty and administrative staff and expressed her pride in the UAE’s effective crisis management, which consistently prioritizes the safety and security of society. She also congratulated her fellow students on their return to campus.
Khaled Alzaabi, a Computer Information Science student, expressed his satisfaction with the return to in-person learning. Although remote learning remains an option, he stressed that in-person education is more beneficial because it provides opportunities for direct interaction with faculty and peers, as well as hands-on learning and training. He commended the support extended by faculty in helping students manage academic pressures during the previous period and successfully navigate examinations. He further expressed his pride in the UAE’s ability to manage challenging circumstances and its commitment to sustaining education as a foundation for progress and excellence, noting that students are equally committed to fulfilling their responsibilities, especially in such circumstances.
