Staff
Dubai, Oct 2, 2026: Campus IT is being upgraded on two fronts. In classrooms and labs, universities are standardising devices, audio-visual kit, networks and specialist software so teaching runs reliably from the first day of term. Behind the scenes, research, lecture capture and artificial intelligence are producing data fast enough to force a rethink of how it is stored, governed and protected.
At American University of Sharjah (AUS), the focus is teaching and recording hardware. Campus-wide improvements include “professional-grade audio-visual hardware, including dedicated PTZ cameras and advanced lapel microphone systems engineered specifically for voice clarity,” says Ali Al Suwaidi, Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration. Upgraded instructor desktops are “deployed with pre-configured software interfaces [such as direct pins to the iLearn LMS portal, Panopto and Zoom] right on the desktop.”
The University of Greater Manchester’s Academic Centre in Ras Al Khaimah has paired hardware with specialist software. “The University has upgraded its IT infrastructure through the deployment of high-performance desktop computers, high-speed wired and wireless networks, network security systems and dedicated servers,” says Lekshmi Rajesh, Academic Coordinator, School of Engineering. Engineering applications including AutoCAD, MATLAB, ANSYS and SolidWorks have been installed or updated. “We have deployed advanced cybersecurity solutions to ensure strict compliance with UAE’s personal data protection laws,” says Rajesh. “Robust data backup and disaster recovery systems have been implemented to safeguard institutional research and ensure operational continuity.”
Symbiosis International University Dubai is scaling up as its student numbers grow. “Symbiosis Dubai is upgrading its computing infrastructure to meet the academic requirements of its expanding student community and technology-oriented programmes,” says Shreebha Pillai, Head of Admissions and Promotions.
Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy – Les Roches is adding content production to its IT mix. “A standout addition for this academic year is the inauguration of a dedicated, professional-grade podcast studio, one of the few of its kind within a hospitality education institution in the region,” says Hugo Perreira, Director of Information Technology. The studio will serve as both a teaching facility and a content platform.
