University of Kalba (UKB) recently took part in the 13th edition of the International Government Communication Forum (IGCF 2024), a prestigious event organized by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau under the theme “Agile Governments… Innovative Communication.”
The forum attracted notable attendance from university officials, faculty members, and students, particularly those from the Communication Program. This engagement offered a valuable platform for enhancing interactions with both local and international experts in the field of government communication. By participating in this influential forum, UKB is positioning itself at the forefront of innovative communication strategies, paving the way for future collaborations and advancements in the field.
The university delegation immersed itself in a robust lineup of sessions and workshops, delving into cutting-edge advancements in government communication strategies and practices. Students from the Communication Program at the College of Arts, Sciences, Information Technology, and Communication embarked on an enlightening field tour of the forum, where they gleaned valuable insights from key participating organizations and engaged with a diverse array of events. Standout moments included lively panel discussions on digital government communication and thought-provoking dialogues focused on media tailored for youth.
These educational initiatives are meticulously crafted to refine students' intellectual and practical skills, empowering them to thrive in a rapidly evolving communication landscape. By equipping the next generation of communicators with the tools they need, the university is shaping a future that is not only bright but also responsive to the demands of an ever-changing world.
In a compelling panel discussion titled "Agile Government: Enhancing Educational Effectiveness," Dr. Ali Al Zaabi, Chancellor’s Assistant for Community Affairs, Public Relations, and Media, emphasized the critical role of adaptive governments that align with the ever-evolving needs of citizens. He asserted that governmental flexibility not only enhances the quality of education but also contributes to the overall educational renaissance in the UAE. Dr. Al Zaabi also highlighted the major challenges facing the education sector amidst rapid technological transformations, underscoring the necessity of adopting flexible policies to navigate these changes.
Meanwhile, Dr. Noora Al Hooti, Assistant Professor in the Communication Program, conducted a workshop on the role of artificial intelligence in management and education, titled "The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Administrative and Educational Communication." She explored the applications of AI in administration and how these innovations can significantly enhance the quality of administrative services and educational processes in academia. Dr. Al Hooti also discussed ways to leverage AI to uphold the national vision for Emirati youth.
Additionally, Dr. Sherin Moussa, Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication, presented a summary of her book on the quality of Arabic content in the era of AI technologies, titled "Professionally Creating Automated Content," in Nabhath platform.
Dr. Riad Jeljeli, Associate Professor in Communication Program, and Dr. Fathy Shams El-Din actively participated in various forum activities, including sessions addressing emerging challenges in government communication and the role of technology in enhancing governmental transparency. Their involvement underscored the university's commitment to advancing modern communication practices.
Professor Hesham Abusaimeh, Dean of the College of Arts, Sciences, Information Technology, and Communication, praised the significance of these events in nurturing students' skills and guiding them toward engagement with future work environments. He noted that such participation offers students invaluable exposure to the latest communication technologies utilized in governmental institutions, enabling them to develop effective communication abilities and craft impactful messages that benefit society.
Professor Abusaimeh emphasized that the forum serves as an ideal platform for exchanging expertise and ideas with communication specialists from around the globe. This interaction not only strengthens the university’s research and innovation capabilities but also highlights the importance of establishing strategic partnerships with governmental and private institutions in this field. Such collaborations contribute to the university's vision of providing high-quality education that aligns with the demands of both local and international markets.