The Social Activities committee (SAC) of PSC always endeavours to provide recreation and entertainment to the staff members who need some time for relaxation during their busy teaching schedule. With the same purpose in view, Social Activities Committee presented two activities on Thursday, 7th of March 2024. Ms Nusaiba was the host of all the proceedings of these activities. The first activity was a short Drama, called “Wild Cheatings”, acted by two PSC Lecturers _Mr. Humaid Al Mamari and Mr. Mazaher Engameh. This short drama revolved around the innovative ways which students adopt in cheating during the exams. The actors’ get up and dialogues were quite funny but suggestive of a message for the invigilators to be vigilant while invigilating modern day’s students. At the same time this performance was quite entertaining, and full of witty and ironic dialogues. The audience enjoyed a lot and appreciated this performance. After this hilarious activity there was an announcement for Photo Gallery Competition among PSC staff. This activity was presented by Ms. Cara and Ms. Daria. They explained the procedure and details of this competition and encouraged all the staff to showcase their talent in photography.
On February 22, 2024, the Staff Development Committee of the Department of Engineering and Technology organized a seminar called " Power Quality Enhancement Using Artificial Intelligence Techniques." This event took place in the Multi-Purpose Hall, Room B102, from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM. The goal was to help people understand how artificial intelligence (AI) can make power quality better.
Mr. Veera Nagireddy Varampati, a lecturer in the Department of Engineering and Technology at UTAS-Ibri, started the seminar. He gave a detailed introduction and talked about why power quality is important for electrical systems. He explained that good power quality makes devices work better and last longer. He then talked about how AI, like machine learning and data analysis, plays a big part in checking and improving power quality. He said these AI methods help watch over and manage electrical systems in real time.
Mr. Varampati showed examples and case studies where AI made power quality better. These examples proved that AI methods are good at finding and fixing power problems. He also talked about the challenges of using AI in power systems and the chances for making things better in the future. He mentioned issues like how to make AI work on a large scale and how to mix it with current systems. The seminar was very helpful. It gave people important information about how AI and power quality work together. Mr. Varampati's knowledge helped everyone learn more about how AI can make power systems better.
On February 15, 2024, the Staff Development Committee of the Engineering Department organized a seminar program entitled "Hardware Design for IoT Projects." The event, held in the Multi-Purpose Hall (Room B102) from 1:30 PM to 2:30 PM, aimed to enhance understanding and proficiency in the field of hardware design for Internet of Things (IoT) projects.
Dr. M. Muruganandam, Lecturer from the Department of Engineering and Technology at UTAS-Ibri, initiated the program by delivering a comprehensive explanation and opening remarks. His introduction encompassed key aspects of hardware design for IoT projects, including an overview of IoT Architecture. He provided insights into the fundamental architecture of IoT systems, emphasizing the interconnected nature of devices and the significance of hardware components in enabling seamless communication. The speaker delved into the crucial role of sensors in IoT projects, discussing their integration into hardware designs and the methods employed for efficient data acquisition. Practical examples and case studies were highlighted to illustrate these concepts.
An in-depth explanation was given on the selection and utilization of microcontrollers in IoT hardware design. Additionally, Dr. Muruganandam covered various communication protocols essential for establishing connectivity between IoT devices. Understanding the importance of power management in IoT devices, He provided insights into optimizing energy consumption and implementing effective power management strategies for prolonged device operation. The speaker addressed security challenges inherent in IoT projects and discussed hardware-based approaches to enhance the overall security posture of IoT devices, ensuring data integrity and user privacy.
The seminar successfully provided participants with a deeper understanding of hardware design considerations in the context of IoT projects. Dr. Muruganandam's expertise and insightful presentations contributed to a valuable learning experience for all attendees, fostering knowledge enhancement in this rapidly evolving technological domain.
The Preparatory Studies Centre (PSC) conducted a training session for the new teachers and part-timers, on the use of “Web-portal, Moodle, and Smartboard”, on February 22, 2024. A team of experts from ETC comprising Mr Said Al Mantheri, Mr Musabah Al Bloushi, and Mr Roderick Oandasan, conducted the training session. The trainers explained with practical demonstration how to use Moodle, web-portal and Smartboard in the classroom. They highlighted the importance of smartboard, and demonstrated how to use it effectively for classroom teaching and learning. The attendees showed keen interest in the use of technology and online resources for teaching purposes.
In another session, Mr Jabez Syam explained the importance of portfolio, and how E-portfolio can be maintained properly. The session was received well with positive feedback from the participants.
The Preparatory Studies Centre (PSC) conducted a training session entitled: “Orientation on MS Teams and MyELT” on February 15, 2024. The target trainees were new staff members and part-time teachers. The presenter was Ms Maha Al Hosni, a well versed PSC staff member and E-learning Coordinator. The session mainly focused on Use of MS teams features and apps like: Classwork, Assignment and Grading, etc. in enhancing English language skills. The collaborative session introduced MS teams features and their effective implementation in ESL classrooms. It also highlighted the varied use of features available in MS teams in online classroom activities. The session also shared the activities and authentic samples from previous semesters that were used through MS teams to facilitate and aid the lecturers. Apart from that, she also explained how teachers can use MyELT platform for enhancing students’ learning at home. The session was received well with positive feedback from the participants.
The Community Engagement Committee of the Preparatory Studies Centre (PSC) at UTAS-Ibri organised a comprehensive two-week IELTS preparation course from January 21st to February 1st, 2024. The course aimed to equip students with the necessary skills and strategies to excel in the IELTS test, focusing particularly on speaking and writing modules.
The course featured both online and in-class sessions to cater to diverse learning preferences. Online sessions were conducted by esteemed IELTS experts, including Dr Mohsin Amiri, Ms Lubna Zia, Mr Jabez Konatham, and Mr T Rao. Additionally, in-class sessions were facilitated by a team of experienced tutors, including Mr John Bathula, Mr Michael Keeton, Ms Frizha Melgarejo, Mr Sulaiman Al Ghareebi, Mr Faisal Al Shemali, Ms Amal Ashour, Dr Mohammed Amir, and Dr Dennis Corbita. Throughout the course duration, participants engaged in a variety of speaking and writing activities, as well as grammar exercises. The IELTS tutors shared valuable tips and strategies tailored to improve students' performance in the IELTS test.
Dr Sultan Al Ghafri, the Head of Centre (PSC), commended students for their consistent attendance and active participation throughout the course and presented certificates of participation to them. He extended his heartfelt wishes to all participants for their forthcoming IELTS test, emphasizing the PSC's commitment to hosting regular IELTS courses aligned with community needs and UTAS-Ibri's vision.
The course received positive feedback from participants, who appreciated the depth of knowledge shared by the instructors and the interactive nature of the sessions. Students reported feeling more confident and prepared to tackle the challenges posed by the IELTS test following the completion of the course. The collaborative efforts of the Community Engagement Committee and the esteemed team of IELTS experts have significantly contributed to the effectiveness and value of the courses.
The Community Engagement Committee of the Preparatory Studies Centre (PSC) at UTAS-Ibri organised a General English course from January 21st to February 1st, 2024. The course was tailored to students seeking to enhance their spoken and written communication skills.
The success of the course owes much to the expertise and dedication of the teaching staff. Ms. Adeebah Al Sawafi, Mr. Humaid Al Mamari, Mr. John Bathula, Mr. Sipho Israel, Ms. Moza Al Abri, and Ms. Samiya Al Ghafri demonstrated unwavering commitment to the students' progress throughout the duration of the course. Ms. Adeebah Al Sawafi took the initiative to design a comprehensive booklet comprising a compilation of existing general English material. This resource served as a valuable tool for students' learning journeys. Moreover, the teachers employed a variety of online games and activities to create engaging learning experiences.
Dr. Sultan Al Ghafri, the esteemed Head of Centre (PSC), presented certificates of participation to the students. He lauded them for their dedication and encouraged them to capitalise on the opportunities provided by the PSC at UTAS-Ibri to further refine their English language skills.
The successful completion of the General English course underscores UTAS-Ibri's commitment to fostering academic excellence and facilitating holistic development among students. The collaborative efforts of the Community Engagement Committee, dedicated teachers, and supportive leadership have played a pivotal role in empowering students to excel in their English language proficiency.
The Community Engagement Committee of the Preparatory Studies Centre at UTAS-Ibri organised a two-day IELTS Intensive workshop on the 23rd and 30th of December, 2023. The session focused on providing valuable insights, strategies, and practice to improve candidates' proficiency in the four key areas: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. The workshop was led by Dr Mobina, Ms Adeeba, Mr Jabez Syam, and T. Rao, whose expertise was well applauded.
The participants were mostly from the Indian School-Ibri and Ibri Hospital. They displayed consistent enthusiasm and active involvement throughout the workshop, eagerly participating in discussions, exercises, and practice sessions.
This workshop reflects UTAS-Ibri's commitment to community engagement, fostering academic growth, and providing valuable resources for skill enhancement.
Community Engagement Committee of PSC organised a workshop titled “English in Various Communication Contexts” on December 14, 2023 at the Al Akhdar Campus of UTAS-Ibri
This workshop was conducted by Ms. Taiba Al Waili, a senior staff member and a skillful resource person of PSC. The participants were Grade 11 elective course students from Al Ghaliya bint Nasser School.
Ms. Taiba Al Waili led an immersive and dynamic workshop that showcased the versatile use of the English language across both formal and informal contexts. The session, centred on a hands-on approach and practical examples, and provided attendees with a unique learning-by-doing experience.
The workshop's success was attributed to its interactive nature and the positive feedback received from participants. It also echoed their thirst for knowledge and their appreciation for more experiential learning opportunities.
Continuing UTAS-Ibri’s mission to engage with the local community, the ELC Management reached out to the local government ministries to offer a general English course for its officials. The course ran from November 26th to December 21st, 2023. The month-long course assessed the officials’ current level of English and helped them identify their language goals. Participants attended the course from a variety of government departments. The popularity of the course stemmed from the students’ enthusiasm for remembering, practicing, and expanding their language skills.
The participants reviewed and practiced fundamental tenses, vocabulary, and collocations through highly interactive activities led by Ms. Zumrut Cassidy and Mr. Michael Cassidy. It was a lively and enjoyable experience for both the teachers and the students. The participants quickly re-familiarised themselves with the language and improved their speed and accuracy. Their passion for learning made the lessons more fun, fruitful, and productive.
The English for Communication Course at Utas-Ibri culminated with the assistant vice chancellor of Utas-Ibri, Dr AlAmir Nasser Salim Al-Lawi, commending the dedication of the teachers in making the course a success. Dr. Al-Lawi also extended his appreciation to the enthusiastic attendees. In recognition of their achievements and commitment, Dr. AlAmir Al Lawi presented certificates to the deserving teachers and participants, acknowledging their dedication and successful completion of the course.
Last but not least, the remarkable contributions of Dr Maryam Saif Said Al Ghafri, Head of Studies (PSC), and Dr Sultan Hamad Hilal Al Ghafri, Head of Centre (Preparatory Studies Centre), were recognised and celebrated. Their consistent support, encouragement, and guidance were instrumental in fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth of the local community members.
