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Higher Colleges of Technology Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates: Dr. Rasha Abusamra, Assistant Professor

Company: Higher colleges of Technology Sharjah
Company Description: The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) in Sharjah is a premier institution offering cutting-edge, career-focused education. With modern facilities and industry-aligned programs, it empowers students with practical skills and knowledge for a dynamic job market. HCT Sharjah fosters innovation, research, and community engagement, preparing graduates to excel globally.
Nomination Category: New Product Categories
Nomination Sub Category: Award for Innovation in Non-Profit/NGO Services
2024 Stevie Winner Nomination Title: Dr. Rasha Abusamra, Assistant Professor
  1. Provide an essay of up to 625 words describing the nominated innovation's concept, value, delivery, and impact since July 1 2022:

    Total 623 words used.

    Dr. Rasha Abusamara is a trailblazing leader at the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), an institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence and social responsibility. Through her innovative initiatives, Dr. Abusamara has played a pivotal role in enhancing the college’s capacity to serve as a catalyst for positive change within the non-profit sector. Her work, which blends cutting-edge technology with community-focused solutions, has made a lasting impact, ensuring that education, innovation, and social good are seamlessly integrated within HCT’s vision.

    HCT is one of the UAE's foremost institutions of higher education, dedicated to delivering high-quality academic programs while addressing real-world challenges. As part of HCT’s strategic goal to foster innovation and empower students, Dr. Abusamara has been instrumental in leading initiatives that combine the institution’s technological resources and academic expertise to drive change in non-profit services. Her efforts have not only transformed the learning experience at HCT but have also significantly contributed to addressing critical societal issues.

    One of Dr. Abusamara’s standout accomplishments is her role in spearheading HCT’s digital transformation, which has revolutionized how education and community outreach are delivered. Through innovative digital platforms, she has enabled students to access learning materials more effectively, regardless of their geographic location. This has been particularly impactful in reaching underserved and marginalized communities, ensuring that HCT’s educational offerings are accessible to a broader audience. Under her leadership, HCT has become a beacon for integrating technology into education while addressing societal needs through its service-oriented initiatives.

    Dr. Abusamara has also been instrumental in developing partnerships between HCT and various non-profit organizations, enabling the college to apply its technological resources and expertise in ways that directly benefit the community. One of the most notable initiatives she led is the launch of a community-focused technology incubator. This incubator offers free support to non-profits, helping them adopt innovative digital solutions that streamline their operations and expand their outreach. For instance, HCT students collaborated with a local food bank to develop an app that improved food distribution logistics, ensuring that aid reached those in need more efficiently and effectively.

    Dr. Abusamara’s innovative approach also extends to the curriculum, where she has ensured that students are equipped with the skills to drive social change through technology. By integrating real-world challenges into the learning process, she fosters a problem-solving mindset that encourages students to apply their knowledge to address global issues. Through her guidance, HCT students have worked on projects using emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data analytics to solve problems in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and social services.

    Her leadership goes beyond academic innovation. Dr. Abusamara has been a champion of inclusivity and diversity, ensuring that non-profit services facilitated through HCT are accessible to all, regardless of background. She has advocated for policies that provide scholarships and opportunities for underrepresented groups, ensuring that marginalized communities benefit from the innovation-driven projects HCT develops.

    In addition to her work within HCT, Dr. Abusamara has created a culture of innovation among the faculty and staff, encouraging educators to explore new teaching methods, integrate technology, and adopt innovative approaches to problem-solving. Her mentorship and workshops have cultivated a forward-thinking community of educators committed to continuous improvement, which has enriched the educational experience for HCT students and prepared them to become the next generation of leaders and innovators.

    Dr. Abusamara’s impact extends beyond the academic environment, as she has consistently used HCT’s resources to support and collaborate with non-profits in the region. Whether through creating technological solutions that address social issues or fostering partnerships that promote community engagement, Dr. Abusamara’s work has helped to position HCT as a leader in innovation for social good.

    In recognition of her innovative solutions and dedication, Dr. Rasha Abusamara is a deserving nominee for this award.

     

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Dr. Rasha Abusamra, Assistant Professor
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