Students Gain Real-World Insight at UAE Innovates Exhibition, DHL Innovation Hub, and Samsung Smart Things

In March, both the third-year January cohort and first-year September cohort students embarked on a field trip to explore the UAE Innovates Exhibition and the DHL Innovation Hub. It was a significant educational venture, aiming to bridge academic concepts with real-world applications in Innovation and Logistics.

At the UAE Innovates Exhibition, students were immersed in interactive sessions and technology demonstrations, showcasing advancements in AI, robotics, and sustainable solutions. This immersive experience not only deepened their understanding of the innovation cycle but also shed light on the challenges and rewards of bringing new ideas to market. The visit to the DHL Innovation Hub complemented this experience by offering a glimpse into the complex world of logistics, where professionals shared insights on operational strategies, technological integration, and the global impact of efficient supply chain management.

This field trip played a vital role in augmenting students' comprehension of theoretical concepts by providing hands-on experiences and direct interaction with industry experts. Exposure to both the exhibition and DHL operations ignited students' interest in innovative and logistical fields, inspiring them to consider these dynamic sectors for future career paths. By aligning educational objectives with experiential learning, the field trip not only enriched the students' academic journey but also motivated them to explore the potential of becoming the next generation of innovators and leaders in an ever-evolving global landscape.

Second-year Cybersecurity students also had the honour of visiting the Samsung Smart Things Hub in the neighbouring Dubai Internet City recently with Dr Judhi Prasetyo. Guided by Samsung technical staff, students had the chance to experience various Internet-connected smart devices of varied brands controlled using the Samsung Smart Things application. From smart doorbells enabling remote interaction with visitors to smart refrigerators that suggest menus and place orders for out-of-stock items, students gained firsthand experience of cutting-edge technology in action.

Engie Bashir, the UG CPC of CEI, emphasised the significance of field trips in students' learning journeys: “Field trips are a cornerstone of students’ learning journeys in CEI. They offer students a unique lens through which they can witness the application of their studies in the real world. It's one thing to learn about theories and technologies in the classroom; it's another to see them in action, solving real-world problems. These experiences are invaluable—they spark a profound passion for innovation.”