The Higher College of Technology (HCT), the largest applied higher education institution in the United Arabic Emirates, has earned the WELL Health-Safety Rating for all of its campuses throughout the UAE, awarded by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI).

This achievement reflects HCT’S unwavering commitment to the health, safety and well-being of its student body and employees.

The WELL Health-Safety Rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating that supports organizations to advance wellbeing-focused. Adopted in more than 100 countries around the world, as a leading standard on the health and safety procedures in buildings, the WELL Health-Safety Rating validates operational practices and awards excellence in addressing air and water quality, cleaning procedures, emergency preparedness, health resources and stakeholder engagement.

Mohammed Alnuaimi, HCT Vice President of Shared Services, said the wellbeing and safety of HCT’s students, staff and faculty is of paramount importance, which is maintained through a range of health and safety initiatives.

“By adhering to proactive planning, through decisive and effective initiatives, we are ensuring the wellbeing of our students and employees, as well as the business continuity of HCT’s operations,” Mr. Alnuaimi said.

Mr. Alnuaimi said that HCT’s strategies are fully aligned to key national strategies and prioritize the health and wellbeing of its students and employees, with the Well Health-Safety rating being a sterling example of HCT’s commitment to that core aim.

To achieve the WELL Health-Safety Rating, HCT implemented health and safety strategies across all its campuses. These strategies include assessing air ventilation, upgrading operational protocols in maintaining and continuously monitoring indoor air quality, enhancing cleaning and sanitization procedures, updating policies on emergency preparedness, and promoting health and safety related communications with all stakeholders.

“The WELL Health-Safety Rating gives organizations a proven roadmap to not only enhance human health and well-being, but also to position the business and operations for long-term resilience,” said Paul Scialla, founder of the International WELL Building Institute. “By achieving the WELL Health-Safety Rating across all of its campuses, The Higher Colleges of Technology demonstrated tremendous leadership in the wellbeing landscape.”

The WELL Health-Safety Rating is highly regarded, not only among educational institutions but also among prominent companies. In the UAE, leading organizations, such as Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, Majid Al Futtaim, and Emaar have achieved this rating, showcasing their commitment to fostering safe and healthy environments. Globally, major corporations like Google, Bank of America, and Salesforce have also embraced this standard, further demonstrating its importance and global relevance.