Tag: DIGITAL

  • Nanosatellites to support digitalisation of Dubai’s power, water networks

    Nanosatellites to support digitalisation of Dubai’s power, water networks

    Space-D supports DEWA’s grid digitalisation programme by using IoT and remote sensing technologies…reports Asian Lite News

    Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) has selected NanoAvionics to design, build, test, and manage the launching of two nanosatellites 3U and 6U. The services supplied by Nanoavionics also include operation, knowledge transfer and training.

    Nanosatellites to support digitalisation of Dubai’s power, water networks

    This is part of DEWA’s space-D programme that seeks to enhance operational efficiency and reliability, and promote preventive maintenance for the planning, generation, transmission and distribution of electricity and water networks. Space-D supports DEWA’s grid digitalisation programme by using IoT and remote sensing technologies.

    Through this programme and the expertise of NanoAvionics, DEWA intends to enhance its flexibility and agility in monitoring and managing its electrical and water networks. With Space-D, DEWA expects to reduce costs, improve its asset utilisation and provide sustainable, efficient and reliable power and water services to its customers.

    “His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched DEWA’s space programme, Space-D. The programme aims to build DEWA’s capabilities and train Emirati professionals to use space technologies to enhance its electricity and water networks. The programme will take advantage of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and blockchain to exchange information with the help of satellite communications and earth observation technologies,” said Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of DEWA.

    In line with its digital transformation, DEWA will use a 3U satellite with an Internet of Things (IoT) payload as well as a 6U satellite with an Earth Observation (EO) payload from Nanoavionics. Using satellite network connectivity, IoT terminals, satellite imagery and applying AI to the captured data will bring greater efficiency and effectiveness to DEWA’s operations, maintenance and planning. The agreement with NanoAvionics also includes launch management, construction of the ground station, and an extensive training programme for Emirati professionals to facilitate know-how transfer and support in expanding DEWA’s future space capabilities.

    ALSO READ: DEWA sets Guinness record for first 3D-printed lab

    Vytenis J Buzas, co-founder and CEO of NanoAvionics, said, “This is a fantastic project for NanoAvionics to be involved in and a great example of how satellite technology improves our lives and helps us to become more sustainable. The knowledge transfer, in addition to satellite integration and mission operations for DEWA, also shows the capabilities and value that our expert team can bring to our customers. Our team has been part of more than 90 missions, including four successfully launched missions this year, and has previous experience in sharing its skills and knowledge through programmes with other international customers.”

  • UAE, UK ink deal for cultural cooperation

    UAE, UK ink deal for cultural cooperation

    The two countries will also work together to support youth and talented individuals in the cultural fields…reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK’s Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) to reinforce cooperation in cultural fields related to tangible and intangible cultural heritage, literature, visual and performing arts, audio-visual media, design, cultural and creative industries.

    The two countries will also work together to support youth and talented individuals in the cultural fields.

    UAE, UK ink deal for cultural cooperation

    The MoU underlines the importance of cultural dialogue and exchanges in strengthening the ties between the UAE and the UK, while also expanding on knowledge of each other’s civilisation, culture and arts.

    The MoU was signed by Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh, Minister of State; and Nigel Huddleston, Minister for Sport, Tourism, Heritage and Civil Society of United Kingdom. The two ministers highlighted the importance of culture and its role in establishing social cohesion, promoting dialogue between communities and peoples, and building stronger human to human relations.

    They explored means of fostering partnerships to advance the cultural and creative sector and keep pace with the current developments and tackle challenges. They also agreed on exchanging experiences in the field to make the cultural and creative industries a significant contributor to the national GDP. This would also lead to new opportunities for creative talents to work in the sector, which is currently one of the fastest growing sectors globally.

    The ministers said that the UAE and Britain have very deep ties that stem from shared social and cultural values. The new agreement is built on a commitment to promoting the values of tolerance and coexistence, reflected in the creative cultural movements in the two countries.

    The MoU aims to foster cooperation in the field of cultural heritage protection and the study of culture, languages, literature, arts and heritage in the two countries. It will also promote translation of published materials in both English and Arabic to give a boost to the publishing sector.

    ALSO READ: UAE, WEF call for global action to secure better future

    The two countries also seek to ensure the protection of intellectual property rights in accordance with national legislation and international conventions; to host mutual cultural events and facilitate opportunities for public participation in cultural events; and prop up the cultural and creative industries affected by the pandemic.

    The MoU enables the exchange of experiences to facilitate the implementation of international agreements, such as those signed with UNESCO and other agreements related to the cultural sector. It also calls on professionals, scholars, experts and researchers in the field of culture to draw on each others’ experiences in implementing international agreements, and benefit from international conventions.

  • Dubai’s DoF, Visa ink deal to drive digitisation

    Dubai’s DoF, Visa ink deal to drive digitisation

    The signed MoU will pave the way for a collaboration to establish a long-term strategic partnership between DOF and Visa…reports Asian Lite News

    The Government of Dubai’s Department of Finance (DoF) and Visa, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). Signed in ceremony held during GITEX Technology Week at the Digital Dubai pavilion, the agreement will reinforce the collective objectives of both organisations to support the emirate of Dubai’s digital growth agenda.

    Dubai

    The MoU was signed by Jamal Hamed Al Marri, DOF’s Executive Director for Central Accounts Sector, and Dr. Saeeda Jaffar, Group Country Manager for GCC, Visa. Officials from both sides attended the signing ceremony.

    Under the terms of this MoU, Visa and DOF shall cooperate on digitisation of the Government of Dubai’s payments through a range of commercial products and partnerships, as well as extending support to Dubai Cashless initiative. Visa will also share data insight capabilities at emirate, country, regional and global levels in order to supplement existing data sources with the aim to support policymaking at sectoral and macro-economic level.

    The signed MoU will pave the way for a collaboration to establish a long-term strategic partnership between DOF and Visa. The latter will extend its support to DOF in accelerating the digitisation of their customers’ journey through strong capabilities including Visa Tokenisation service, APIs and contactless technology, among other smart financial services. Visa will also help DOF in building modular, secured and integrated digital payment platform through a single integration to multiple acquirers, acceptance methods and DOF divisions, enabling the latest digital payments trends such as Network Tokens, 3D EMV, Pays, Intelligent fraud management.

    ALSO READ: Dubai’s digital aspirations

    “This partnership represents a strong testimony of DOF’s and Visa commitment towards serving the regional financial ecosystem and paving the way the growth of digital payments,” said Al Marri. “DOF is keen on the continuation of its digital transformation journey with partners like Visa, who are one of the global payments and technology companies.”

    Dr. Jaffar expressed her pleasure on the MOU and commented, “The governments of the UAE and Dubai has always been very progressive and has recognised the importance of cashless payments and the benefits that come with it, whether it is in terms of fueling digital commerce growth or supporting economic growth. The Government of Dubai were making already steady progress towards becoming a cashless economy even before the pandemic. Digitising government payments is as important as it is to digitise the consumer environment. As a trusted engine of commerce, Visa is committed to supporting the ecosystem and we are very proud to be working even more closely with the Department of Finance in realising this important goal.”

  • Dubai’s digital aspirations

    Dubai’s digital aspirations

    Committee members discussed tactics to action the clauses included in the Executive Council Resolution issued to form the new committee…reports Asian Lite News

    The Dubai Digital Transformation Steering Committee has held its inaugural meeting to explore the emirate’s digital aspirations, chart a path for the period ahead, outline prospects for cooperation, set priorities, and rally efforts to implement Dubai’s digital transformation plans and strategies.

    Committee members discussed tactics to action the clauses included in the Executive Council Resolution issued to form the new committee, which include, among other things, integrating roles between government entities which have as stake in the city’s digital transformation efforts, in addition to supporting the emirate’s vision to transition into a fully digital society.

    Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of Dubai Executive Council, had launched the Committee in October of this year, marking another addition to Dubai’s quest for a digital future that embraces advanced technologies and builds on the emirate’s long track record of success to steer the digital transformation journey.

    Chaired by Hamad Al Mansoori, Director-General of Digital Dubai, the meeting brought together a large roster of UAE government officials.

    Al Mansoori thanked committee members and their respective entities for the high level of cooperation they demonstrated towards harmonising plans and strategies and aligning them with the general digital transformation strategy, which reflects the leadership’s vision to make Dubai a global digital capital.

    ALSO READ: Dubai Dialogue offers glimpse into future of UAE’s circular economy

    “This meeting is an important milestone on the path towards fulfilling our leadership’s aspirations for a fully digital life,” Al Mansoori added. “Today, we set our sights on the future and strive to shape it to fit our vision for our society and future generations, based on a track record of achievements that all entities represented in the Digital Transformation Steering Committee – along with various government partners – helped accomplish. I am confident in the Committee’s ability to achieve its objectives within the set timeline, empowered by the leadership’s support and relying on teamwork and government talent.”

    “Dubai always exceeds all expectations with unprecedented achievements,” he continued. “The future belongs to those who plan for it. The Dubai Digital Transformation Steering Committee firmly believes in the inclusive and integrated nature of the efforts needed to shape a future founded on the breakthroughs of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The seeds we are sowing today – our strategies, policies, and plans for citywide digital transformation – will undoubtedly bear fruit in the future, and Dubai will always be a global digital icon, inspiring its residents and visitors, and providing them with an exceptional living experience marked by security, progress, and prosperity.”

  • UAE launches ‘Pioneers of Digital Economy’

    UAE launches ‘Pioneers of Digital Economy’

    The initiative also targets empowering talents to compete for the best job opportunities in global leading companies in the fields of coding and AI…reports Asian Lite News

    The UAE government has launched “Pioneers of the Digital Economy” initiative, which aims to enhance capabilities of young talents and provide them with the knowledge and expertise needed to develop advanced future technology that will positively influence the UAE’s economy.

    The initiative also targets empowering talents to compete for the best job opportunities in global leading companies in the fields of coding and Artificial Intelligence (AI), and develop innovative solutions to challenges, thus promoting future digital economy in the UAE and boosting its global leadership and competitiveness.

    Omar bin Sultan Al Olama

    The initiative, launched by the National Programme for Artificial Intelligence, provides a platform to enhance partnerships between public and private sectors, talented skills in the field of software and modern technologies, and international technology leaders operating in the UAE. It encourages international leading companies to provide opportunities for talents to promote their active participation in supporting the digital transformation in the UAE and building an advanced digital economy that contributes to enhancing people’s wellbeing and building a better future.

    Under “Pioneers of the Digital Economy” initiative and during the 41st edition of GITEX Global 2021, the AI Office announced collaborating with Amazon Web Services (AWS), to enable talents to compete in the fields of technology and software.

    Omar bin Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Teleworking Applications, stated that the UAE government adopts modern technologies and AI tools for building a sustainable digital economy, in line with the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to provide the best possible solutions and promote the UAE’s global competitiveness.

    Al Olama added that forging partnerships and reinforcing cooperation with entities and companies that support global economies help accelerate digital transformation in the UAE and its transition towards a sustainable digital economy. He further noted that launching “Pioneers of the Digital Economy” initiative, in collaboration with Amazon Web Services, is part of the ongoing efforts of the AI Office to enable talents specialised in digitisation and AI technologies to actively engage in promoting the national digital economy.

    ALSO READ: UAE University hosts ‘Times Higher Education Emerging Economies Summit’

    Isabella Groegor-Cechowicz, Vice President of Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), AWS Worldwide Public Sector, said, “We are pleased to be collaborating with the UAE AI Office to support talent development of UAE nationals as we continue to build a diverse and inclusive workforce at AWS. With the upcoming launch of the AWS data centers in the UAE in the first half of 2022, we are hiring teams across multiple functions to support cloud adoption and to help accelerate the UAE’s digital transformation strategy.”

    As part of its cooperation with the AI Office, Amazon Web Services will share a periodic list of job opportunities available at the company’s headquarters in the UAE, while encouraging local talents to apply for these vacancies, thus enhancing their capabilities in various fields of digital economy.

    The two parties shall further cooperate to build the capabilities of national talents, enable them to adopt modern technologies, introduce them to the experiences of global tech companies, and provide them with the best opportunities to design innovative solutions and services. This goes in line with the UAE’s ‘Principles of the 50’ focusing on enhancing human capital, achieving digital, technical and scientific excellence, and building the best and most dynamic economy in the world.

  • Using AI in Cycling Tracks

    Using AI in Cycling Tracks

    This revolutionary ‘AI in Cycling Tracks’ solution aims to ensure safer roads for cyclists by deploying digital solutions that create a meaningful impact on people’s lives…reports Asian Lite News

    Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) is set to host a live demonstration of the ‘Using AI in Cycling Tracks’ solution at its stand at GITEX Technology Week 2021, which is a proof of concept (PoC) developed by EVOTEQ, a digital transformation solutions provider.

    Mohammed Yousuf Al Mudharreb

    This revolutionary solution aims to ensure safer roads for cyclists by deploying digital solutions that create a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

    RTA had developed 463 kilometres of cycling track in 2020 with plans to increase the total length of cycling tracks in the emirate to 739 kilometres by 2026 with the aim of linking the most vital areas in the emirate with various public transport stations.

    ALSO READ: UAE, Israel Agree to Boost Tourism Ties

    The first phase of the PoC was implemented at the Nad al Sheba cycling track in Dubai.

    Mohammed Yousuf Al Mudharreb, CEO of RTA’s Corporate Technology Support Services Sector, said, “In designing the Smart Cycling Track, next-generation technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) have been used. The data gathered by this high-tech AI enabled platform will be leveraged to detect cyclists, joyriders, including joggers, and scooter riders, on the track and determine the current track occupancy. The smart solution also identifies the speed at which the cyclists are traveling and detects if they are wearing a helmet. Moreover, further trend analysis will allow the collected data to predict and prevent critical cycling incidents like crowded tracks and accidents, and alert authorities of increased risk conditions based on the collected data.”

    Jihad Tayara

    Jihad Tayara, CEO, EVOTEQ, said, “Throughout the first phase of the PoC implementation, we focused on the utilisation of the latest AI and IoT technologies to validate the viability of the solution by building and testing four keys features: cyclist detection, helmet detection, speed and total occupancy. As a following step, we’ve developed an extended project roadmap for the complete track journey for cyclists, which aims to improve their safety and experience.”

    “In Dubai, the solution will help boost the government’s efforts to make the emirate a bicycle-friendly city, as well as promote cycling as a form of sport and fitness activity,” Tayara added.

  • Abu Dhabi to showcase digital innovation ecosystem in healthcare

    Abu Dhabi to showcase digital innovation ecosystem in healthcare

    DoH will showcase its key achievements pertaining to Abu Dhabi’s world-class response to the COVID-19 pandemic by highlighting the latest technologies and innovations, reports Asian Lite News

    The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi (DoH), the regulator of the healthcare sector in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, is set to showcase Abu Dhabi’s digital innovation ecosystem in healthcare through a line-up of its latest digital initiatives and technological innovations at GITEX Technology Week 2021 – which will be taking place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from the 17th to the 21st of October, 2021.

    As part of its participation at GITEX, DoH will showcase its key achievements pertaining to Abu Dhabi’s world-class response to the COVID-19 pandemic by highlighting the latest technologies and innovations that were utilised to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of the healthcare sector during the global health crisis.

    Furthermore, through its participation, DoH will demonstrate the emirate’s dedication to ensuring healthcare preparedness for the future by placing a keen focus on the development of digital competencies and innovations.

    Dr. Jamal Al Kaabi, Undersecretary of DoH, said: “Guided by the forward-looking vision of our wise leadership, the UAE has come a long way in adopting the latest technologies and positioning itself as a global hub for technology and innovation and a leader in the smart transformation process.”

    Al Kaabi continued: “Core to our mission is creating a robust innovation ecosystem that provides HealthTech start-ups with the support they need to thrive in addition to facilitating key partnerships with local and international entities. We are investing in new technologies such as AI and ecosystem technologies to further achieve DoH’s mission of providing world-class medical services to all members of the community.”

    As part of its participation at GITEX, DoH aims to strengthen partnerships with local and global organisations by forging agreements that will open doors for greater collaboration and contribute to establishing Abu Dhabi as a healthcare hub and a medical destination that is favoured by patients from around the world. Underscoring its commitment to providing the right policies and regulatory practices to encourage innovation, DoH will also highlight key investment opportunities in the emirate’s healthcare sector.

    ALSO READ: DCT Abu Dhabi updated Green List countries

    DoH will also present a number of key projects and initiatives including the Certification of Need project, the Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) Impact Management Simulator, the Health Licensing System, the Drones Delivery System Project, and the Innovation Ecosystem Support project.

    Abu Dhabi

    Each project facilitates different services that will contribute to improving the healthcare system. The Certification of Need system is based on modern tools that help instantly recognisee supply and demand needs based on forward-looking data sets linked directly to the licensing and capacity management system in the Health Planning Sector.

    The ASCVD Disease Impact Management Simulator (DIMS) is built on local data that will support DoH in optimising resource allocation and prioritising the deployment of needed initiatives. The Health Licensing System was revamped last June 2020 and introduced innovative solutions for users in a time where simplicity, accuracy and instant delivery of services is of utmost importance to the healthcare system.

    On the other hand, with a planned launch in 2022, the Drones Delivery System project will use drones placed throughout 40 stations to create a state-of-the-art delivery system and network.

    This project is the result of a meaningful collaboration between DoH, the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), SkyGo and Matternet, and will leverage existing advanced infrastructure to transform healthcare logistics.

    HealthTech Accelerator Programme provides support to health tech startups by ensuring a flexible and innovative ecosystem that will help accelerate the implementing of technology in the healthcare services in Abu Dhabi.

    As part of its efforts to support promising and outstanding startups, DoH is set to introduce four startups that provide innovative solutions to the gaps in healthcare services and contribute to the acceleration of DoH strategic goals of improving Abu Dhabi’s healthcare system.

    GITEX Technology Week 2021 is one of the biggest technology events in the world. It brings together the world’s technology leaders, enterprises and startups to showcase the latest innovations and digital projects and initiatives that are set to redefine the future of every business and every industry.

  • SANS Institute launches #SecureTheFamily campaign

    SANS Institute launches #SecureTheFamily campaign

    World-leading experts offer advice this Cybersecurity Awareness Month to become safer online at home with lessons learned at work…reports Asian Lite News

    This October, for Cybersecurity Awareness Month, SANS Institute (SANS) is encouraging everyone to spread security awareness programs beyond the boundaries of the office and to help all employees and co-workers apply the lessons learned at work to protect their families and friends with the global #SecureTheFamily initiative.

    Heather Mahalik, #SecureTheFamily Campaign

    Today, we are more digitally connected than ever before, as more people work from home, remote e-learning has grown exponentially, and Wi-Fi-enabled “smart” devices increasingly occupy different aspects of our daily lives. Connected personal assistant devices can control your smart home devices, digital refrigerators can track your food inventory, video monitors allow you to keep an eye on your little one anywhere from your smartphone, thermostats and light bulbs can connect to your home Wi-Fi, and some washing machines let you remotely schedule wash cycles in advance. Our children are super savvy about the latest model of mobile phone, while our aging parents need help with theirs. All of this connectivity brings plenty of benefits and convenience, but each connected device also brings increased risk.

    HEATHER MAHALIK, DIGITAL FORENSICS EXPERT, SANS FACULTY FELLOW, CELLEBRITE SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL INTELLIGENCE: “Every personal device used is a potential entry for system threats, Cyber attackers can target anyone’s home – no one is invulnerable. Risks to our digital safety are everywhere, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.”

    Ms. Mahalik developed the SANS Security Awareness curriculum for #SecureTheFamily with practical advice on securing personal devices and data and how to keep families safe online.

    Ms. Mahalik notes a few misconceptions about individual-based security practices, such as your home network is too small to be at risk of a cyberattack and that your smart devices are secure right out of the box. So how do we secure our homes, and more importantly, protect our families? Ms. Mahalik highlights some key issues:

    Heather Mahalik, Digital Forensics Expert and SANS Institute Faculty Fellow

    1. Backing Up Your Digital Information

    Most of us know that we need to back up our data, but how often do we do it? And are we sure we know where it’s going? Our data security depends on good habits such as strong organization of our passwords and consistent backups. Separate your work from personal items from family storage plans so that sensitive items are not shared with those who don’t need access to them.

    2. Protecting Your WiFi Network

    Another crucial step is to secure your home WiFi network. Make sure you change the network’s name first – don’t leave it as “Admin” or use your last name. Also, change the network password to a word or phrase that your family will remember, but outsiders won’t easily guess.

    3. Balancing Your Children’s Privacy

    When they log onto their devices, our children and teens face numerous risks, including cyberbullying and potential exposure to online predators through social media and video gaming. In fact, research shows that 40% of kids in grades 4-8 report they have connected or chatted online with a stranger, 51% of all teens use at least one social networking app regularly, and 90% of teenagers have regular access to a mobile device. Tweens and teens spend so much time on their digital devices that parents can face challenges striking an appropriate balance between security and accessibility. To balance children’s privacy online, parents need to monitor kids’ online activities and set screen time limits. 

    ALSO READ: P&G and Zulekha Hospital initiates Pink It Now campaign

    4. Securing Your Devices

    From very young toddlers up through high schoolers, our children are more likely than ever to be attached to one or more digital devices, which comes with considerable risk. As parents we must protect our children by securing their devices. For Android devices, set a passcode, enable FindMyDevice to locate or lock a lost device, and establish a phone number/email that can be used to validate your information. For Kindles/ eReaders, enable the lock screen by setting a passcode, enable FindMyKindle to locate or lock a lost device, and update your personal information to include your name and email address in case the device is lost. For all iOS devices, set a passcode, enable FindMyPhone to locate or lock a lost device, establish a phone number/email that can be used to validate your iCloud information, and create backups with iCloud or iTunes.

    5. Safeguarding School-Issued Devices

    Make sure to secure school-issued Chromebooks and other devices by setting passcodes, knowing what location artifacts are being tracked, and ensuring children fully understand Internet safety. Many children and teens will try to bypass the security measures on their devices, so be vigilant against the use of jailbreaks, hacking, and other techniques that kids might use that invite additional security risks.

    The #SecureTheFamily initiative will help you better educate your workforce, friends, and family with techniques to secure home devices and personal data, as well as how parents can protect their children and teens online.

    “Because it’s never too late to practice good cyber hygiene,” reminds Ms. Mahalik.

  • Abu Dhabi to showcase over 100 digital initiatives at GITEX

    Abu Dhabi to showcase over 100 digital initiatives at GITEX

    The Abu Dhabi Government is set to participate for the 10th time in GITEX Technology Week, at the Dubai World Trade Centre, from 17th to 21st October…reports Asian Lite News

    Thirty-one government and academic entities will be part of the Abu Dhabi Government pavilion to showcase more than 100 innovative initiatives and projects in digital transformation to create a unique experience for visitors through a unified platform for all government entities.

    The Department of Government Support – Abu Dhabi (DGS), represented by the Abu Dhabi Digital Authority (ADDA), the government entity that leads the digital transformation of the Abu Dhabi government, organised a virtual preparatory meeting with representatives from the participating government entities to coordinate efforts and finalise preparations.

    The meeting emphasised the importance of taking into account COVID-19 precautionary measures, including social distancing and the compulsory wearing of face masks.

    The Abu Dhabi Government’s participation is part of the UAE’s 50th-anniversary celebrations, where the nation will be celebrating its remarkable journey over the last 50 years and begins preparing for the next 50.

    This participation comes under the supervision of the Higher Committee of Digital Government as part of its efforts to implement a governance framework across the Abu Dhabi Government and make a fundamental change in the concept of government services, moving towards a digital future.

    ASLO READ: Abu Dhabi Sports Council calling for UAE’s best ballers

    Ali Rashid Al Ketbi, Chairman of DGS, commented, “GITEX Technology Week 2021 is a unique opportunity to emphasise the readiness and development of Abu Dhabi’s digital infrastructure, shedding light on its digital capabilities and resources that support and enhance customer confidence, including citizens, residents, visitors and investors.”

    The Abu Dhabi Government participation focuses on four key pillars: “Government Services”, providing a smooth and seamless experience designed to meet the needs of customers through digital channels and service centres; “Government Solutions”, promoting cooperation and supporting joint initiatives across various governmental entities and institutions to maximise the value of the initiatives’ output; “Data and Artificial Intelligence”, taking advantage of the safe and effective sharing of data to support the decision-making process and enhance government pro-activeness; and “Ecosystem Enablement”, driving socio-economic growth by accelerating integration with digital systems, applications, stakeholders, customers, and business partners.

    Abu Dhabi to showcase over 100 digital initiatives at GITEX

    By participating in GITEX Technology Week 2021, the Abu Dhabi Government aims to bolster strategic public-private partnerships, explore new areas of collaboration, and leverage the capabilities of major technology companies to support the emirate’s digital agenda.

    The Abu Dhabi Government has also introduced the Abu Dhabi Government Virtual Pavilion Experience, which will give users the ability to make virtual visits to the pavilion from anywhere in the world. This is in addition to introducing the Virtual Assistant service to enable users to connect and interact with the 31 participating government entities, and partners from the academic sector and access details about events and activities taking place at the pavilion.

    Throughout GITEX Technology Week 2021, the Abu Dhabi Government Pavilion will host a series of special events, including the launch of innovative digital initiatives and the signing of Agreements and MoUs.

  • Tips to boost productivity in classroom/office

    Tips to boost productivity in classroom/office

    Demand for new ways to drive productivity for professional or educational purposes is likely at its highest ever point…reports Asian Lite News

    Whether individuals are developing their skillsets in classroom environments or delivering on project objectives in a full-time professional capacity, the power of technology has opened up a new world of possibilities for all concerned. Digital applications and new ways of working are providing newfound empowerment in daily life, boosting productivity for more efficient and effective performance.

    Now, with the summer months over, students resuming their studies, and people returning to work, the remainder of 2021 promising to be a busy period for millions – and everyone has an opportunity the drive results to greater heights.

    This applies to the Middle East & North Africa (MENA), where national economies continue their re-emergence with support from the wider business community and emerging talent prepare themselves for career ascension. In 2020, the region’s labor force exceeded 149 million people across all industries , while the UAE alone has over 295,000 higher education students . Moreover, regional smartphone penetration ranks among the highest worldwide at 97% , which is relevant as this emphasizes the scale of digital literacy.

    With these considerations in mind, demand for new ways to drive productivity for professional or educational purposes is likely at its highest ever point. Fortunately, there is a wide array of opportunities for the masses to consider and pursue. Below are five of the most practical that will help drive productivity in a classroom or office:

    Make the most of employee engagement software

    The sudden and largely seamless transition to remote working environments has introduced employees from all verticals to different possibilities where performance is concerned. Whether people are operating from home, in the office, or a combination of the two, employee engagement software effectively boosts productivity – particularly for those part of a team. Besides being another way to communicate to meet project deliverables, such software promotes a strong culture of teamwork, improves workplace harmony, and encourages healthy competition through incentives such as redeeming rewards – all factors that can increase motivation and performance.

    ALSO READ: Winners of the Voices of Future Generations awarded in Dubai

    Let tracking tools monitor progress

    Project deliverables in terms of timeframes must be met at university and work on a regular basis. Therefore, using time effectively is key to increasing productivity to the maximum. How much time is wasted for various reasons? What distractions often surface that hinder progress? Which hours witness peak creativity? How substantial are overall contributions? All of these questions can be answered precisely with time tracking tools. With their support, one can identify strengths and weaknesses in their performance timeline and ultimately apply what they learn to increase efficiency.

    Organize digital workspaces

    The technology evolution has forged a new reality: more students and employees operate digitally than ever before. Irrespective of age or experience, work environments have always significantly influenced productivity, and the same can be said in today’s tech-driven landscape. Fortunately, digital workspaces can be made comfortable and effective almost instantly. Laptops, tablets, web browsers, and applications can be streamlined, with smart management tools and notification centers helping to link every program and piece of equipment for a sustainable and organized workstation where productivity comes to the forefront.

    Safeguard project progression with the cloud

    Students and full-time employees have all experienced setbacks during projects: unnecessary time spent searching for sources of information; laptops and PCs suddenly crashing; opening corrupted files or deleting key documents accidentally. However, productivity can be given a major boost by using the cloud. It would be prudent for everyone yet to do so to store their projects and documents in cloud-based databases, which will ensure not only safety and seamless accessibility, but also improve performance as such scenarios can be completely avoided.

    Drive productivity with file sharing

    File sharing has become an important part of any student’s life as most of today’s study content is in digital format rather than textbooks. At the same time, file sharing has become a prominent part of professional life as running a modern business is largely dependent on digital data storing and sharing. Crucially, file transfer apps allow users to transfer files between two devices, at high speed, even without the internet and requirement of Bluetooth or USB. This applies to documents, images, videos, and much more – meaning everyone should adopt file sharing to boost their productivity. A prominent platform to do this is SHAREit.

    With file transfer speeds that reach up to 20mb/s, SHAREit’s efficacy in the file sharing space is unmatched. It helps make file transfer easy and fast, helping individuals share unlimited files of any size with each other and increasing productivity by reducing the processing times. It also removes issues caused due to poor internet connectivity and is cost-effective as users don’t have to pay the high cost of data. This feature very beneficial for students and working professionals with study content, documents, or reports in their mobile phones but – due to the small screen –  prefer to access these files on their computers or laptops for easy readability.

    For students and full-time professionals, the coming period represents an opportunity to redefine productivity through digital tools and capabilities. Employee engagement software, tracking tools, streamlined workstations, the cloud, and file sharing represents a winning combination to fulfil performance potential, one that will ultimately lead to new phases of personal and professional progression being explored.