The British University in Dubai organises its first TEDx event

The British University in Dubai organises its first TEDx event

The British University in Dubai (BUiD) organised the inaugural TEDxTheBritishUniversityinDubai at the Marriot Hotel Al Jaddaf. The event explored the impact of COVID-19 on higher education and the future of universities after the pandemic. Distinguished speakers from a cross section of BUiD discussed key issues including Blockchain, inclusivity and diversity, and alternative methods of assessment.Professor Abdullah Alshamsi, BUiD's Vice Chancellor, welcomed the audience and said, “We are very proud to organise our inaugural TEDxTheBritishUniversityinDubai. We at BUiD believe strongly in disseminating knowledge and we share the same goals as the TED organisation of spreading worthy ideas. This event is a great opportunity for people to share thoughts and discuss ideas on COVID-19 and its impact on higher education.”BUiD's Registrar and Chief Administrative Officer, Hugh Martin FRSA, opened by noting that education has been hit hard by the pandemic. Within weeks of moving teaching and learning online, the talk began that the traditional university was dead. He argued that never has the purpose and mission of universities – in person and on campus – been more important. He also talked about strengthening and cementing the traditional university as the foundation of a fair, tolerant, and civil society based on the pursuit