The traditional education system is increasingly failing to engage students, leaving many feeling disconnected and questioning the value of their learning experiences. As classrooms become battlegrounds of disengagement, the need for innovative solutions has never been more pressing.

Meet Heather Fahnestock, the versatile Owner of Waterview Learning Academy, LLC. With a steadfast passion for transforming the educational experience, she is leading a movement that emphasizes project-based learning and holistic development. Her academy stands as a ray of hope, offering an inclusive environment where students are encouraged to explore their passions and connect academic pursuits with real-world applications.

Heather’s approach goes beyond mere curriculum changes; it fosters a culture of collaboration and creativity. By integrating hands-on projects that resonate with students’ interests, she cultivates an atmosphere where learning becomes an adventure rather than a chore. Her advocacy for innovative educational practices is not just about improving grades; it’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared to tackle the complexities of modern life.

As educators and parents seek solutions to the growing crisis of student disengagement, Heather’s vision offers a compelling path forward. With her leadership at Waterview Learning Academy, the future of education looks brighter, promising a generation of learners who are not only academically proficient but also deeply connected to their communities and the world around them.

Let’s discover her journey!

A New Dawn in Education

From a young age, Heather aspired to be a teacher and make a meaningful impact. After starting her career in public schools, she realized that the traditional model didn’t serve all students. Many left classes wondering why the material mattered and the importance of the need for a more engaging approach.

Believing in project-based learning and holistic education, she sought to create a space where students could thrive outside conventional methods. The name “Waterview” reflects this mission, symbolizing cleansing and fresh starts.

Heather’s goal was to show students that poor grades or test scores don’t define their potential. With Waterview, she offers a nurturing environment for those seeking a second chance to discover their abilities and realize their true potential.

Celebrating Growth

In her journey with Waterview, Heather has experienced several pivotal moments that have shaped both her business and the community it serves. One of the earliest milestones was celebrating five years in business, a significant achievement that underscored the remarkable growth of the Waterview family.

Heather’s vision for a non-denominational, outside-the-box learning environment has not only met a vital need today but has also surpassed the original business plan she had recognized.

This success shows up the importance of innovative approaches in education and the unique niche Waterview occupies in its field. As Heather continues to lead, her devotion to encouragement and a supportive and vigorous learning environment remains at the facade of her mission.

The Waterview Success Story

At Waterview, the journey of a student extends far beyond simply earning a diploma. Graduates leave the program not only with their high school credentials but also equipped with the confidence and tools to pursue their dreams. Many students arrive with the sole goal of completing their education, but over the course of 12 transformative years, Waterview instills a sense of empowerment that propels them toward their futures.

With an impressive track record, Waterview proudly reports that 100% of its graduates have either enlisted in a branch of the military or pursued further education at a secondary school. This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication of both students and educators in fostering an environment where aspirations are nurtured and realized.

Under the guidance of passionate mentors like Heather, students discover their potential and are encouraged to chase whatever their hearts desire. Waterview is not just about graduation; it’s about launching successful futures.

The Waterview Success Story

At Waterview, the journey of a student extends far beyond simply earning a diploma. Graduates leave the program not only with their high school credentials but also equipped with the confidence and tools to pursue their dreams. Many students arrive with the sole goal of completing their education, but over the course of 12 transformative years, Waterview instills a sense of empowerment that propels them toward their futures.

With an impressive track record, Waterview proudly reports that 100% of its graduates have either enlisted in a branch of the military or pursued further education at a secondary school. This remarkable achievement reflects the dedication of both students and educators in promoting an environment where aspirations are nurtured and realized.

Under the guidance of passionate mentors like Heather, students discover their potential and are encouraged to chase whatever their hearts desire. Waterview is not just about graduation; it’s about launching successful futures.

Engaging Learning Experiences

At Heather’s school, hands-on and project-based learning serve as natural methods to engage and captivate students. With a small student-to-teacher ratio, educators can effectively differentiate instruction for each student, accommodating distinct learning styles and interests.

This personalized approach helps maintain student engagement, as lessons are made relevant to their lives and the world around them, promoting a strong sense of connection.

A Community Built on Family

At Waterview, the sense of family is a foundation of the educational experience. This spirit is embodied by Heather, affectionately known to her students as “Mama Duck.” Under her guidance, the school organizes monthly family-style meals and community service projects, advancing a strong bond among students, parents, and staff.

These events not only provide a platform for support and connection but also emphasize the importance of giving back to the community. Parents play an integral role in this environment, actively participating in daily routines and contributing valuable academic and career resources.

Heather’s nurturing approach and the collaborative efforts of the entire Waterview community create a warm and inclusive atmosphere where every member feels valued and supported.

Holding Challenges

In the vigorous field of education, challenges arise daily. The Waterview approach, while sometimes met with skepticism, proves its worth through experience. With a holistic vision, educators like Heather are given to making a meaningful impact.

Recognizing the social and emotional hurdles faced by today’s students, Heather pauses academics when many are struggling, initiating what she calls a “Mama Duck moment.” This check-in allows students to realign their mindsets, as Heather understands that mental presence is fundamental for effective learning.

Through open dialogue and support, she helps students develop coping strategies for their futures. By prioritizing emotional well-being, Heather and her colleagues at Waterview exemplify a progressive model focused on holistic student development.

The Importance of Feedback

Feedback, while sometimes difficult to accept, is needed for growth within the Waterview community. Heather focuses that input from all members not only identifies areas for improvement but also celebrates successes, encouraging a sense of belonging.

At Waterview, student feedback directly influences the curriculum. When students express interest in specific programs, the team strives to provide those options, empowering students to explore fields they might want to pursue. As Heather notes, you often don’t know what you’ll enjoy until you try it. This promise to feedback warrants that Waterview remains a vigorous and responsive community focused on meeting students’ needs.

Holistic Approach to Learning

Heather has recently been honored as the Emerging Leader in Education 2024 on a global scale, a testament to her innovative practices and commitment to continuous training and research in the field. Under her guidance, the program has carved out a unique niche, embracing a holistic approach to education that resonates with a worldwide audience.

Heather’s vision incorporates a diverse array of learning facets, seamlessly blending traditional academics with community service, weekly life skills sessions, and robust social and emotional support. This comprehensive strategy not only equips students with essential knowledge but also raises a sense of community and personal growth.

As the demand for holistic education continues to rise globally, Heather’s leadership positions her program at the lead of this vital educational trend.

Technology in Education

Heather, the founder of Waterview, has seen the dual nature of technology in education. In 2012, she established a hybrid learning model inspired by her online studies, allowing students to stay engaged even when life events, like illness, kept them from attending in person.

The COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters proved her foresight valuable, as the existing online portal enabled seamless transitions to remote learning and continued project-based education.

Heather recognizes the challenges of integrating technology, particularly with the prevalence of cell phones. Rather than banning them, she focuses on teachable moments, guiding students to use their devices responsibly. Through helping high schoolers reflect on professional usage, she advances a culture of mindful engagement.

Through her innovative approach, she demonstrates that while technology is a blessing, it requires careful management to truly enhance education.

Measuring Success

In assessing the effectiveness of Heather’s educational program, one could say the proof is in the pudding. The success of each student extends beyond traditional metrics like furthering education; it’s evident in their daily enthusiasm for learning. Each day, students arrive eager to engage, finding joy in their educational journey—something that may have been absent before.

The creative projects students produce serve as tangible indicators of their progress and passion. Heather’s graduates stay to leave a lasting impact on society, stepping into roles as military heroes, securing dream jobs, and even launching their own businesses as teenagers. Remarkably, some of these alumni return to share their knowledge and experiences by teaching in the very program that shaped them.

These inspiring stories fuel Heather’s dedication, reinforcing her belief in the transformative power of education. Each success, whether big or small, reflects the heart of her labor of love.

A Journey to Success

Heather has always championed the transformative power of education, especially for those struggling in traditional settings. One standout story is that of a student who began his journey in the 7th grade. Diagnosed with autism and initially non-verbal, he faced challenges in his previous school that lacked necessary accommodations.

In Heather’s supportive environment, he thrived, graduating on time as the salutatorian of his class. He went on to earn an associate degree in art—an achievement Heather always believed he could reach. His story exemplifies how the right support can unlock extraordinary potential, motivating Heather and her team to continue their dedicated work for all students seeking success.

Embracing Authenticity in Education

Waterview, under the guidance of dedicated educators like Heather, prioritizes authenticity and individual growth, developing an environment where students can develop their unique skill sets, or “toolboxes,” for success. The school aspires to be a welcoming home for generations, encouraging alumni to return and share their journeys.

To remain relevant, Waterview embraces innovative authority technology and innovative practices while staying true to its core values. This balance safeguards students receiving a well-rounded education, preparing them for future challenges.

She believes that Waterview’s approach should be shared more broadly, promoting the importance of nurturing individuality in education and creating a more inclusive learning environment.

Nurturing the Future of Education

As we look towards the future, it’s clear that education must continue to evolve. Stagnation is not an option; change is not just inevitable—it’s essential. We must prioritize the holistic development of each student, moving away from rigid lesson plans and embracing flexibility adapted to the unique needs of our classrooms every year.

At Waterview Academy, we believe our vision and structure can be a beacon for others. While we won’t be franchising or opening additional True Waterview locations, we are eager to share our approach. Our hope is that other educators—”Mama Ducks” in their own right—will recognize the magic we’ve created and feel inspired to develop their own unique versions of our model.

The post Heather Fahnestock: Nurturing Well-Rounded Learners appeared first on Insights Success.

Solving this challenge, Erin C. Cockrell stands as a driving force, dedicating over 2 decades to transforming the landscape of K–12 education. Her strategic vision and collaborative leadership style have been instrumental in fostering partnerships and driving initiatives that advance educational equity and excellence. She has consistently advocated for policies and practices that prioritize student learning and development, recognizing the critical role education plays in shaping future generations.

Her journey into the fields of educational sales leadership, business development, and team management was fueled by a profound passion for making a tangible impact on education. From an early age, she recognized the transformative power of education and sought to be a catalyst for change. Erin saw an opportunity to influence the distribution and utilization of educational resources, ensuring equitable access to high-quality learning tools for every student, regardless of their background.

Her motivation springs from a commitment to bridging educational gaps and empowering students, a mission that has guided her throughout her esteemed career. Erin’s approach is grounded in collaboration, fostering partnerships with educators, administrators, and stakeholders to identify and address the unique challenges faced by diverse student populations.

“Education is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor,” Erin asserts. “We must tailor our strategies and resources to meet the specific needs of each learner, empowering them to reach their full potential.”

Through her leadership, Erin has spearheaded numerous initiatives that have reshaped educational practices and resource allocation. Her ability to bring together cross-functional teams and align their efforts toward a shared vision has been pivotal in driving systemic change within the education sector.

Whether advocating for data-driven decision-making, championing professional development opportunities for educators, or promoting the integration of cutting-edge technologies into classrooms, Cockrell’s impact is far-reaching. Her passion for educational equity has inspired countless educators and administrators to embrace innovative approaches and foster inclusive learning environments.

Let us explore her journey:

Inception Story

Currently, Erin is leveraging her extensive expertise by offering fractional sales leadership through her consultancy, SalesBoostHQ. This initiative was inspired by her recognition of a common challenge faced by EdTech companies: the need for seasoned sales leadership without the capacity to hire full-time executives. Through SalesBoostHQ, Erin provides contract and part-time fractional sales support, enabling these companies to optimize their sales strategies and achieve substantial growth while maintaining manageable costs.

This innovative model allows businesses to access Erin’s years of experience and strategic insight in a flexible and cost-effective manner. By partnering with SalesBoostHQ, companies can enhance their sales operations, capitalize on market opportunities, and effectively compete in a dynamic industry landscape. Erin’s consultancy not only addresses immediate sales needs but also empowers organizations to build sustainable growth and success over the long term.

Erin’s dedication to supporting EdTech companies stems from her belief in the transformative impact of technology on education and her commitment to facilitating access to quality educational resources. Through SalesBoostHQ, she continues to drive positive change by empowering businesses to navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve their goals in the rapidly evolving EdTech sector. Her consultancy stands as a testament to her ongoing mission to foster innovation and excellence in education through strategic sales leadership.

Strategies to Ensure Innovative Approach

Erin stays at the forefront of EdTech sales by embracing a dynamic approach that blends continuous learning, market awareness, and innovative strategies. Her commitment to staying informed about the latest educational trends, technological advancements, and pedagogical research is unwavering. This is achieved through active participation in industry conferences, engagement in professional development workshops, and networking with fellow thought leaders, which not only keeps her well-informed but also continually inspires her approach.

Central to Erin’s success is her reliance on data-driven decision-making and adaptability. By harnessing the power of data analytics, Erin identifies emerging trends and opportunities that others might overlook. This analytical approach proved pivotal when she identified and capitalized on untapped potential in Minnesota, resulting in significant sales achievements for her initiatives.

Moreover, Erin fosters a culture of creativity and innovation within her teams, empowering them to develop unique solutions that address the evolving needs of their customers. This collaborative environment has been particularly beneficial during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Through strategic pivoting and adaptive strategies, Erin and her teams achieved unprecedented success, demonstrating resilience and agility in navigating unforeseen obstacles.

Erin’s proactive approach to EdTech sales exemplifies her dedication to driving positive outcomes through strategic foresight, data-driven insights, and a commitment to innovation. By continuously evolving her strategies and leveraging her deep industry knowledge, Erin remains well-positioned to lead her teams and clients towards sustained growth and success in the competitive landscape of educational technology.

Prioritizing Sales and Marketing Efforts

Erin places a strong emphasis on understanding and prioritizing customer needs, which is the cornerstone of her sales and marketing strategies in the EdTech sector. She recognizes that educators require comprehensive support, seamless technology integration, and solutions that enhance student engagement and achievement. To effectively address these needs, Erin employs a proactive approach centered around active listening and continuous feedback loops.

Direct engagement with educators, administrators, and stakeholders allows Erin to gain insights into their challenges, goals, and aspirations. By listening attentively and establishing robust feedback mechanisms, she ensures that her team can tailor their offerings to meet the specific needs of their customers. For instance, Erin’s pilot programs for K12 mathematics were meticulously crafted based on feedback received, enabling continuous refinement and alignment with market demands.

This customer-centric approach not only facilitates the development of solutions that resonate deeply with educators but also fosters trust and cultivates long-term partnerships. By consistently adapting and evolving based on customer feedback, Erin demonstrates her commitment to delivering value and driving positive outcomes in the ever-evolving landscape of educational technology. Her dedication to understanding and addressing customer needs underscores her role as a trusted leader in EdTech sales and marketing.

Leadership Approach and Motivation

Erin’s leadership philosophy is defined by empowerment, inspiration, and a strong commitment to personal and professional development. She believes in cultivating an environment where every team member feels valued, respected, and motivated to contribute their best efforts. Erin achieves this by establishing clear goals, providing necessary resources, and fostering open communication, thereby laying a solid foundation for her team’s success.

Central to Erin’s leadership approach is the alignment of individual strengths with collective team objectives and the celebration of achievements, regardless of size. She places significant emphasis on continuous training and mentorship, recognizing these as essential pillars for enabling team members to continually evolve and excel in their respective roles. Erin’s coaching style is crafted to ignite passion, refine skills, and inspire exceptional performance among her team members.

Her leadership prowess was notably demonstrated during her tenure leading the national sales team at Larson Texts, where year-over-year record-breaking results were achieved. Erin’s ability to motivate and empower her team, coupled with her strategic guidance and commitment to ongoing development, fostered an environment where individuals could thrive and collectively achieve extraordinary outcomes.

Erin’s leadership approach underscores her dedication to creating a supportive and growth-oriented workplace culture, where innovation and collaboration flourish. Through her visionary leadership, she continues to inspire her teams to reach new heights of success while fostering a sense of pride and fulfillment in their professional contributions.

Strategic Sales Cycle Management

Erin navigates the complex terrain of strategic sales cycle management and customer-centric initiatives by maintaining a delicate balance between long-term vision and immediate customer needs. Her approach hinges on a dual-focused strategy that integrates meticulous sales planning with a deep commitment to understanding and addressing each customer’s unique challenges and aspirations.

In developing comprehensive sales plans, Erin meticulously outlines clear milestones, allocates resources effectively, and establishes robust performance metrics. This structured approach provides her team with a strategic roadmap to guide their efforts and measure progress towards overarching goals. Simultaneously, Erin ensures that every customer interaction is grounded in a profound comprehension of their specific needs and objectives. This customer-centric approach not only enhances engagement but also fosters trust and loyalty.

Reflecting on her experience, Erin emphasizes the importance of flexibility and responsiveness in achieving sustainable success. By maintaining an agile mindset, she and her team can swiftly adapt strategies to accommodate evolving customer preferences and market dynamics. Regular communication and feedback mechanisms play a pivotal role in nurturing strong, enduring relationships with customers, ensuring that solutions remain pertinent and impactful.

Erin’s ability to strike a harmonious balance between strategic foresight and customer-focused execution has proven instrumental in consistently surpassing ambitious targets, even within fiercely competitive markets. Her leadership exemplifies a commitment to delivering value, driving innovation, and forging enduring partnerships that contribute to long-term business growth and customer satisfaction.

Key Factors in Success

Achieving success in new business development is contingent upon several pivotal factors, each crucial to navigating the dynamic landscape of market expansion effectively. Erin adopts a strategic approach that encompasses a deep understanding of market dynamics, innovative strategies, and an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional customer value.

At the outset of any new initiative, Erin conducts meticulous market research to identify opportunities and discern gaps that her solutions can effectively address. This foundational research forms the basis for tailored business development strategies, ensuring they are both targeted and impactful in meeting market demands.

Innovation plays a central role in Erin’s approach to business development. By continuously exploring novel approaches and integrating cutting-edge technologies, she remains poised to outpace competitors and deliver unique value propositions to clients. This proactive stance not only fosters differentiation but also positions her team at the forefront of industry trends.

Equally vital to Erin’s strategy is the cultivation and maintenance of strong relationships with key stakeholders. By forging meaningful connections and nurturing partnerships built on trust and mutual benefit, she ensures that her initiatives receive robust support and advocacy from influential decision-makers.

Measuring the impact of these efforts involves a comprehensive blend of quantitative and qualitative metrics. Erin relies on metrics such as sales performance, market penetration rates, and customer feedback to gauge immediate success and refine strategies as needed. Furthermore, she places significant emphasis on tracking long-term outcomes such as customer retention and loyalty, which provide invaluable insights into the enduring effectiveness and sustainability of her initiatives.

Erin’s holistic approach to new business development underscores her dedication to driving growth, fostering innovation, and delivering measurable value to clients. By adhering to a strategy informed by market insights, fueled by innovation, and bolstered by strong relationships, she continues to set benchmarks for success in a competitive business landscape. Her leadership exemplifies a commitment to excellence and a relentless pursuit of sustainable business growth.

High-stakes Strategy Meetings

In preparation for high-stakes strategy meetings, Erin engages in meticulous planning and demonstrates a deep understanding of the objectives and stakeholders involved. She initiates by gathering all pertinent data and insights to ensure a comprehensive grasp of the current landscape and potential opportunities. This includes conducting market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and gathering feedback from key customers and team members.

Erin emphasizes effective communication of her vision, employing clarity, confidence, and relevance. She customizes her messaging to resonate with the interests and priorities of the audience, highlighting how their strategies will specifically address their needs and contribute to overall success. Using compelling visuals and real-world examples, she ensures that her presentations are both engaging and persuasive.

Furthermore, Erin fosters an open dialogue during these meetings to encourage valuable input and collaboration, which ultimately strengthens the final strategy.

Key Elements in Compelling Presentations

Erin emphasizes a foundation of clear, concise, and relevant content. The key elements include a strong opening that captures attention, a logical flow of information, and a persuasive narrative that resonates with the audience’s needs and aspirations. She substantiates points using data and real-world examples to ensure the presentation is both informative and credible.

To ensure resonance with her audience, Erin focuses on tailoring the content to their specific interests and challenges. This approach involves understanding their pain points and demonstrating how her solutions can effectively address these issues. Engaging visuals such as charts, graphs, and infographics are used to illustrate key points and maintain interest throughout the presentation.

Additionally, Erin emphasizes actionable insights and clear takeaways, ensuring the audience gains a clear understanding of the next steps and expected outcomes from the presentation.

Cultivating Unified Team Building

In cultivating unified team building, training, and leadership, Erin focuses on creating a cohesive and supportive environment where every team member feels valued and empowered. She achieves this by fostering open communication, encouraging collaboration, and celebrating diversity of thought and experience. Regular team-building activities and workshops are utilized to strengthen bonds and enhance mutual understanding and respect among team members.

For Erin, training is a continuous process that encompasses both technical skills and personal development. She ensures team members have access to ongoing learning opportunities and mentorship, equipping them with the knowledge and confidence to excel in their roles. Leadership development is also prioritized, with tailored programs designed to nurture emerging leaders and prepare them for future challenges.

The benefits of Erin’s approach are manifold. A unified and well-trained team becomes more resilient, innovative, and productive. This positive work culture motivates individuals to contribute their best efforts, resulting in higher performance, improved customer satisfaction, and overall organizational success.

Resource Allocation for Maximum Impact

In optimizing resource allocation, Erin begins with a thorough assessment of needs and priorities. She initiates this process by analyzing current performance metrics, market conditions, and customer feedback to pinpoint areas where resources can be deployed most effectively. This strategic approach involves allocating budget, personnel, and technology to initiatives that promise the highest potential return on investment.

Erin emphasizes the continuous enhancement of processes through a commitment to innovation and improvement. She implements regular reviews and feedback loops to evaluate the effectiveness of strategies and identify opportunities for refinement. Acknowledging new technologies and methodologies is also integral to staying ahead of the curve and maintaining operational efficiency. This proactive stance ensures continual progress and the optimal use of resources to achieve maximum impact.

Resilient Relationship Building and Management

Erin emphasizes trust, communication, and mutual benefit as foundational elements. She prioritizes understanding the unique needs and goals of partners, ensuring that interactions consistently align with their best interests. Regular communication, including updates, check-ins, and feedback sessions, plays a crucial role in maintaining transparency and fostering trust.

Erin focuses on cultivating long-term partnerships by consistently delivering value and demonstrating a commitment to excellence. By exceeding expectations and showing dedication to their success, she builds loyalty and fosters strong, enduring relationships. Additionally, Erin leverages her extensive network to facilitate synergies and collaborations that benefit all parties involved, further enhancing these partnerships.

This comprehensive approach to relationship management ensures that Erin remains a trusted and valuable partner over the long term, contributing to mutual growth and success.

The post Erin C. Cockrell: Transforming Education Through Equitable Access appeared first on Insights Success.

Meet Dr. Mariam Shaikh, a seasoned navigator of the educational world and founder of MS Education Consultants. With over 35 years of experience spanning from preschool ownership to senior leadership roles at prestigious international universities, she has emerged as a ray of hope for students seeking clarity in their educational journey.

Born in Mumbai and a long-time resident of the UAE, Mariam brings a unique East-meets-West perspective to the table. Her brainchild, MS Education Consultants, founded in 2020, is rapidly becoming the go-to resource for students and institutions alike, bridging gaps and opening doors in the competitive world of global education.

Her expertise in student recruitment, marketing, strategic development, and international relations has not gone unnoticed. In a significant milestone, MS Education Consultants was recently appointed as the official ‘Middle East Strategist’ for the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada—an example of the company’s growing influence and her visionary leadership.

As universities around the globe navigate shifting demographics and the challenges of digital transformation, her expertise is incredibly valuable. Her company goes beyond simply offering admissions guidance; it takes a comprehensive approach to education consulting that highlights the importance of experiential learning and career development.

In an era where the right education can be a passport to global opportunities, Dr. Mariam and MS Education Consultants stand ready to guide the next generation of learners. By demystifying the international education domain, they’re not just solving a problem—they’re shaping futures, one student at a time.

Let us learn more about her journey:

Vow to Empowerment and Leadership

Mariam is a strong advocate for active participation in public forums and the expansion of professional networks. Throughout her career in higher education, she has engaged in numerous conferences and served as a spokesperson for the sector on various news channels, both domestic and international.

Through these platforms, she has shared insights about the world-class educational facilities and programs available at international university campuses. Her role as a Brand Ambassador has taken her on extensive travels, both independently and with university delegations.

In addition to her professional endeavors, Mariam has held significant leadership positions. She has proudly served as the President of the Indian Ladies Association for multiple consecutive years and is an active member of the Canadian Business Council. Furthermore, she has been appointed as the International Advisor for the Youth Union Council of India and is involved with the UAE-Africa Initiative. As President of Education Leadership at the Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club and the Country Ambassador for the World Women Leadership Congress 2022, Mariam continues to make her mark. She is also a member of the Indian Women in Dubai network and serves as a Youth Empowerment Mentor for the Entrepreneurship Cell at the prestigious IIT Mumbai.

A significant aspect of Mariam’s journey has been her dedication to mentorship and support for students, whom she views as the leaders of tomorrow. Passionate about empowering others, she strives to enhance her efforts in supporting women entrepreneurs. This commitment is realized through her involvement in various international entrepreneurship groups, where she serves as a board or advisory member. In these roles, she has the opportunity to mentor, advise, and share her experiences with women embarking on their entrepreneurial journeys.

Journey of MS Education Consultants

The driving force behind Mariam’s entrepreneurial venture, MS Education Consultants, was a profound commitment to student success. With a steadfast mission to support students in transforming their dreams into reality, she aimed to mentor them while maintaining focus on their career goals and aspirations.

Recently, Mariam received an Honorary Doctorate in Transformational Educational Leadership from Harvard-affiliated Mother Teresa University. This honor was awarded in recognition of her insightful study paper on international education opportunities for students worldwide, which aimed to guide them in developing their career goals through the best resources available globally.

Mariam’s landmark paper sought to establish educational affiliations worldwide, providing students with a comprehensive roadmap to achieve their dreams through her new venture in Dubai, MS Education Consultants—a name that aspires to be synonymous with excellence in education. Her vision is clear: to help students target their aspirations and strive to be the best in the world.

Having served as a senior leader at various universities across Canada and Dubai, Mariam embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with MS Education Consultants, continuing her mission of assisting students globally. Her passion lies in advising and mentoring students to make informed choices about their university education. She experiences the same excitement as her students when they reach their study destinations and achieve their career aspirations.

In January 2020, Mariam decided to retire from her role as Vice President of Amity University, Dubai, and return to Mumbai to manage her home and art gallery. However, the onset of the lockdown left her stranded in Mumbai for seven months. This challenging period, marked by restrictions and social disconnection, prompted her to reconsider retirement. With a renewed sense of purpose and ambition, she realized she was not ready to step away from her career; instead, she was inspired to pursue a new dream and set new goals.

Establishing her own company had always been a lifelong ambition for Mariam. Motivated by the belief that “it is never too late to set a new goal or dream a new dream,” she initiated the process of setting up MS Education Consultants from her desk in Mumbai, ultimately returning to Dubai, her home for 37 years, to reignite her passion.

At the core of MS Education Consultants is a commitment to providing a comprehensive solution for students applying to universities in the UK, US, Canada, Australia, Dubai, Europe, Malaysia, and India. The consultancy offers guidance through the application process, program selection, career perspectives, internship opportunities, housing assistance, visa support, and any other resources needed to ensure a smooth and enriching student journey. With over 35 years of experience leading international universities, Mariam and her team stand apart from other providers.

Beyond standard information on programs, rankings, and scholarships, the consultancy adopts a holistic approach, advising students on new programs, developing skills for university readiness, and preparing for the cultural adjustments of studying abroad. They emphasize the importance of soft skills, such as teamwork and resilience, alongside technical skills, while also focusing on mental health and well-being, serving as mentors and guides throughout the process.

Today’s students face a multitude of challenges, from academic pressures and family expectations to social media distractions and the transition to independence. Supporting them through this journey is crucial for their well-being. Purpose-driven guidance instills confidence and equips students to navigate university life successfully.

Mariam firmly believes in the transformative power of education and its role in shaping a better society for future generations. She advocates for international exposure and cultural integration as essential components of fostering a tolerant and progressive global community.

MS Education Consultants is dedicated to continuous innovation, offering new solutions, training programs, workshops on future career perspectives, and mentorship initiatives for aspiring young entrepreneurs.

One of Mariam’s latest initiatives is the launch of the Student Cultural and Higher Education Experience Program. In her previous role as Vice President of International Partnerships, she successfully established multiple MOUs with institutions in the US, Austria, India, and China to promote internationalization and cross-cultural student mobility. Notably, she was among the first to bring 120 Chinese students to study in Dubai.

The future of international mobility lies in blending physical and digital experiences to reach a broader range of students. While the number of internationally mobile students in higher education has increased, it still represents only 2.6% of the total global student population. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the potential of online learning innovations, demonstrating that student exchanges can adapt to global health and political challenges.

Now is the time to reimagine student mobility, ensuring that more students can benefit from international experiences in ways that consider both their well-being and the planet’s health. The creativity and innovation displayed during the pandemic must be harnessed to facilitate both physical and virtual student mobility, promoting greater cross-cultural awareness and skills.

MS Education Consultants encompasses several key areas of focus:

University Admissions

Through extensive experience with undergraduate and graduate applications, the consultancy offers student-centered guidance for admission into degree programs that align with students’ academic and vocational aspirations. They assist students in pursuing higher education across over 400 universities in the UAE, USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and Europe.

Education Consultancy

Promoting the United Arab Emirates as an educational hub, MS Education Consultants encourages the growth of educational institutions in new markets. They provide advice on new campus startups, student recruitment strategies, effective marketing budget utilization, and government accreditation, all aimed at enhancing student experiences.

Online Training

Through valuable partnerships, the consultancy facilitates training courses led by industry professionals to enhance skills and knowledge. They support the launch of innovative learning programs offered by leading providers, catering to both young and adult learners.

Acknowledging Challenges and Empowering Women in Business

Mariam has undoubtedly encountered numerous challenges throughout her professional career, from the uphill battles of achieving her goals to navigating fierce competition. She firmly believes that anyone who cultivates smart habits and maintains a positive “Can Do” attitude can achieve success. Mariam emphasizes the importance of being mindful, saying that even a few deliberate changes in behavior and mindset can yield significant rewards.

Throughout her journey, Mariam has faced many obstacles, each one serving to strengthen her resolve and shape her into the professional she is today. She is a determined individual who knows precisely what she wants, setting her sights on her goals and refusing to lose focus until they are achieved.

Women in business often grapple with a myriad of challenges, and for Mariam, one of the most significant was her transition from a senior professional role at a university to becoming an entrepreneur. The most striking adjustment she had to make was the absence of a regular salary at the end of each month. The entrepreneurial landscape demands constant vigilance and effort, often referred to as “hustling,” to generate necessary funds.

Many women feel pressured to adopt a stereotypically “male” demeanor in business—competitive, aggressive, and, at times, harsh. However, Mariam believes that true success as a female CEO lies in authenticity. She encourages women to remain true to themselves and to find their own voices, which is essential for overcoming preconceived expectations.

“Be yourself, and have confidence in who you are,” she advises. This transition can be daunting, as it marks a departure from the company identity one has been associated with for years. Fortunately for Mariam, the trust and expertise she accumulated over 35 years in the education sector served as invaluable assets, as she was already well-regarded for her achievements.

While not all startup founders seek investors to launch their businesses, those who do understand the challenges of the pitching process do. Raising capital can be particularly daunting for women-owned businesses. Although Mariam has not yet needed to pursue this avenue, she recognizes that as her business grows, she will need to be prepared to pitch effectively.

Mariam highlights the existence of women’s groups that provide coworking spaces for female entrepreneurs, fostering inspiration and support through funding and educational workshops. These initiatives are vital to empowering women in the business realm.

At some point, most women CEOs find themselves in male-dominated industries or workplaces that may not readily acknowledge their leadership roles. “As a female entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry, earning respect can be a struggle for many women,” she notes. Yet, Mariam considers her experience as a woman entrepreneur in Dubai to be a blessing.

The landscape of empowerment, entrepreneurship, and growth in Dubai is remarkable. With women holding two-thirds of public sector positions in the UAE and nearly a third of senior decision-making roles in the government sector, the evolving role of women in Dubai reflects the emirate’s rapid growth in recent decades. Contrary to popular misconceptions, Dubai stands at the forefront of female empowerment and entrepreneurship in the global business arena.

Balancing Work and Life

Stress and work pressure are universal experiences. Effectively managing these challenges is crucial for productivity, happiness, and overall well-being.

Approach to Pressure

Mariam approaches work pressure with a strong dedication to her responsibilities. As a self-proclaimed workaholic, she embraces the extra hours necessary to achieve excellence. With meticulous planning and organization, she structures her schedules well in advance, ensuring that she remains focused on her deliverables while balancing other demands on her time. Her passion fuels her relentless energy, allowing her to shine in her professional endeavors. Colleagues often refer to her as a “Glucose Shot,” as her enthusiasm radiates to those around her, contributing to her happiness.

Importance of Work-Life Balance

For Mariam, maintaining a healthy work-life balance is the cornerstone of her success and happiness. She is fortunate to have the unwavering support of her husband and children, who understand the time commitment her career demands. Collaborating with exceptional teams throughout her journey has also played a pivotal role in her achievements.

As a transformational leader, Mariam has cultivated a work environment where she can delegate tasks effectively, allowing her to manage her time optimally. She emphasizes the importance of planning and strategy, consistently prioritizing her tasks to ensure a productive week.

Striving for Harmony

In a society that often prioritizes work over personal well-being, Mariam recognizes the necessity of creating a harmonious work-life balance. This balance is not only vital for her physical, emotional, and mental health but also essential for her career advancement. A well-maintained balance leads to reduced stress, a lower risk of burnout, and an overall enhanced sense of well-being—benefits that extend to both employees and employers.

Mariam believes that achieving work-life balance involves flexibility. Some days may require longer hours, while others allow for personal pursuits. The key is to focus on realistic scheduling rather than perfection. Balance is a gradual process, not a daily expectation.

Prioritizing Health and Well-Being

While work is a significant part of life, it should not dominate it. Mariam emphasizes the importance of enjoying her work enough to look forward to each day. She advocates for prioritizing physical, emotional, and mental health through simple practices like daily meditation or exercise.

Mariam understands the value of unplugging from work. Taking breaks from the outside world is essential for recovery and creative thinking. Whether it’s a short staycation or an extended vacation, she recognizes the importance of time off to recharge both physically and mentally.

Nurturing Relationships

Mariam also stresses the importance of making time for loved ones. While her career is important, it should not overshadow personal relationships. She suggests creating a calendar for family and romantic dates to ensure quality time together, even amidst a busy schedule.

Setting boundaries is another crucial aspect of maintaining balance. Mariam encourages establishing clear work hours and separating personal time from work responsibilities. This might involve using different devices or accounts for work and personal matters, allowing for a clearer division between the two.

Those who successfully navigate the balance between work and life often cite the benefits of flexible work schedules. Recent research indicates that many employers have embraced this flexibility, allowing employees to tailor their work environments to better suit their lifestyles.

In a world that is always “on,” finding balance is a deeply personal journey. For Mariam, relaxation comes from spending quality time with her family, playing board games with her grandson, swimming, shopping, designing her own clothes, and networking with friends. In conclusion, Mariam’s story serves as a reminder that achieving a fulfilling work-life balance is attainable through dedication, strategic planning, and a commitment to personal well-being.

Managing Customer Trends

Each new year heralds a wave of evolving customer trends and expectations. Savvy business leaders recognize the importance of blending established insights with innovative strategies to connect with current and prospective customers, both in the present and in the future.

Marketing Philosophy

Mariam believes that effective marketing hinges on several key strategies. She emphasizes the importance of engaging with audiences on social media, distinguishing one’s brand through a commitment to excellence, and operating with a clear purpose and vision. Utilizing the right tools for search engine optimization (SEO) and digital marketing is essential for reaching target audiences.

Furthermore, Mariam values word-of-mouth referrals and client testimonials, noting that many of her clients come through recommendations. Networking within relevant groups provides valuable exposure, while active participation in industry conferences and workshops offers opportunities to showcase her business.

The Importance of Timely Outreach

Mariam advocates for timely outreach to capture customer interest at the beginning of the year, particularly through new and improved methods that align with the realities of the 2023 marketplace. She has found that operating as a purpose-driven company in a competitive market serves as a key differentiator and enhances brand consideration. Clients and candidates assess her company’s attributes against others, finding meaning in a commitment to addressing persistent issues. Leading with an inspiring purpose fosters meaningful connections.

Content Relevance and SEO

Relevant content tailored to address business needs consistently yields positive results. This year, search engines have significantly updated their algorithms, prioritizing relevance and quality in search results. Mariam focuses on the synergy between content, SEO, and search engine marketing as a central tenet of her strategy.

Nurturing New Mediums

Mariam makes it a priority to explore new mediums that may have been previously overlooked. She conducts analyses of past performance, reallocating budgets from underperforming events to test innovative approaches. For instance, with the rise of remote work, direct mail marketing has gained traction, proving more effective than ever. Additionally, she encourages researching top influencers in the industry to forge partnerships that can elevate brand visibility.

The Power of Timing

Timing is crucial in marketing. Generating buzz in anticipation of the new year, along with offering discount codes or limited-time promotions, can accelerate customer purchases.

Addressing Broader Consumer Demands

Mariam emphasizes the necessity of considering both the functional and emotional needs of customers. Increasingly, consumers seek social and environmental commitments from brands. Crafting value propositions that incorporate a cause or purpose not only meets customer demands but also enhances societal well-being. When communicated effectively, this approach can transform into a competitive advantage.

Understanding customers on a deeper level is essential. Demonstrating how solutions positively impact prospective clients fosters personal connections built on trust and purpose. Utilizing customer stories in various formats—such as videos, blogs, podcasts, and infographics—can significantly enhance sales. By refining messaging, improving offers, and nurturing brand growth, maintaining a strong share of voice becomes vital in developing a robust customer pipeline.

At the core of Mariam’s marketing strategy lies educational content. Producing valuable, search-optimized content—whether written, audio, video, or visual—is a critical initiative that companies should prioritize now to ensure readiness for the new year. Generating visits and leads through insightful content not only bolsters sales efforts but also drives new pipelines and fosters sales growth.

A Day in the Life of Mariam

Mariam embraces a flexible work schedule, believing in the importance of completing tasks rather than adhering to set hours. Her typical day begins with a meeting alongside her team members, where they collaboratively outline the week’s agenda. Together, they organize marketing materials and engage in communication with students and their parents through emails and WhatsApp, addressing any inquiries that arise.

Throughout her day, Mariam attends various events and holds one-on-one meetings. She also participates in regional meetings, connecting with representatives from other areas to exchange information about their respective territories and provide updates on applicant numbers and data analysis.

Despite her busy schedule, Mariam prioritizes her physical well-being. She makes a concerted effort to carve out an hour for the gym, recognizing that staying fit and energized is essential to managing her demanding work life.

Words of Wisdom

Maraiam’s advice to other Women Entrepreneurs is “Build something that you are passionate about. As an Entrepreneur, you have to have the passion and drive to stay the course.”

‘It is entirely up to us to challenge our boundaries, our comfort zones, and get out and see what else is out there in the world and what else is possible, and give ourselves a shot to go a little bit deeper, a little bit further!’

Celebrating Remarkable Achievements in Education and Leadership

In a remarkable display of dedication and excellence, the recipient of numerous prestigious awards has established herself as a leading figure in education and entrepreneurship. Her accolades include the GCC Woman Leadership Award in 2019, the Global Super Achiever Award in 2020, and the Lifetime Achievement Award in the same year. She was also honored with the Woman of Wonders Award and the Achievers Award in Entrepreneurial Venture in 2021, alongside the Excellence in Mental Health—World Health Award and the SHE Business Woman Award.

In 2021, she stood out as the only nominee from the UAE for the Outstanding Contribution to the Education Industry at the PIEoneer Awards. Her commitment to educational excellence was further recognized when she received the Global Excellence in Education Award from H.E. Sheikh Eng. Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Department of Civil Aviation in Ras Al Khaimah, and the Prestigious Fame Times International Excellence Award, supported by the World Book of Records, the UK, and the South Asian Chamber of Commerce.

Under the patronage of the Private Office of H.E. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Faisal Al-Qassimi, she was acknowledged for her Outstanding Contribution to the Education Industry in 2021. Her achievements continued to flourish with the Business Excellence Award in 2022, followed by recognition in the UAE WIM Top 50 Global Awards for Excellence in Education and the Indian Women Awards in the same category.

Culminating her extraordinary accomplishments, she was awarded the Entrepreneur Award at the Emirates Women Award 2022 by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in her field. Her journey exemplifies a commitment to excellence and a profound impact on education and women’s leadership.

Professional Affiliations

The individual is affiliated with several esteemed organizations that reflect a commitment to community, education, and entrepreneurship. These affiliations include:

• Student Safety UK: An organization dedicated to enhancing the safety and well-being of students across the UK.
• Commonwealth Entrepreneurs Club: A network that fosters collaboration and growth among entrepreneurs from Commonwealth nations.
• Ladies in Business Global Community Group: A supportive platform for women in business, promoting networking and empowerment on a global scale.
• UAE Africa Education Initiative: An initiative aimed at improving educational opportunities and resources in Africa.
• International Women Entrepreneurs Group: A community that connects and supports women entrepreneurs worldwide.
• World Education Community: An organization focused on advancing education and learning opportunities globally.
• Indian Women in Dubai Network: A network that empowers Indian women living in Dubai through professional and personal development.
• Social Media Networking Groups in UAE & GCC: Groups with a collective audience of over 50,000, dedicated to fostering connections and collaborations in the digital space.
• Youth Empowerment Mentor with IIT E-cell Mumbai, India: A mentorship role aimed at empowering young entrepreneurs through guidance and support.
• International Advisor for the Youth United Council of India: An advisory position that contributes to the development and empowerment of youth in India.

These affiliations illustrate a strong dedication to fostering growth, safety, and empowerment within various communities.

Passion for Refugee Education

Mariam collaborates closely with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) to offer scholarships to student refugees. She firmly believes that education is a fundamental right for all children, regardless of their circumstances. Mariam understands that access to education can empower refugee children and youth to overcome the significant challenges they encounter.

For boys and girls who have been compelled to escape violence and persecution, the chance to pursue their studies represents a beacon of hope. It allows them to envision a brighter future and unlock their true potential. Through her initiatives, Mariam is dedicated to transforming the lives of these young individuals and fostering resilience in the face of adversity.

The post Dr. Mariam Shaikh: Directing the Global Education Maze appeared first on Insights Success.

The field of advanced technology and education explores the intricate mechanics of systems and the profound impact of digital interfaces on their functionality. The integration of engineering principles with cutting-edge computer science brought forth groundbreaking advancements, shaping industries and challenging traditional norms. At its core, this industry thrives on the synergy between theoretical knowledge and practical application, driving continuous discovery.

Leading this transformation is Michael Short, serving as a Professor of Control Engineering and Systems Informatics at Teesside University. With a rich academic background and extensive industry experience, he has garnered acclaim for his innovative research and influential contributions. His role as Professor personifies a commitment to academic excellence and innovation, nurturing a generation of forward-thinking professionals poised to redefine technological frontiers.

Teesside University, which has UK campuses in Middlesbrough and London, is a beacon of academic excellence and technological advancement. Known for its progressive approach to education and research, the university has established itself as a hub for nurturing talent and driving industry collaboration. Through strategic initiatives and a dedicated focus on digital integration, the University continues to empower students and researchers alike, ensuring they are equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow with confidence.

Let’s explore the impactful journey of Michael:

Could you share a bit about your early life and what inspired you to pursue a career in Control Engineering and Systems Informatics?

As a child I was always inquisitive about how things like engines worked and was always asking questions – some of which my parents realized they couldn’t always answer. I became fascinated with Lego, especially the technical kits that interfaced with computers -which at the time was a ZX Spectrum. It made sense to move into a career in Engineering, and after serving an apprenticeship in control and instrumentation after leaving school, I studied for a part-time degree and then a PhD in Robotics. It has always been the boundaries between engineering and computer science, subjects like digital control, embedded systems and industrial informatics, which interest me most. I’ve been blessed to be able to teach and carry out research in these areas for over twenty years now.

What do you find most fulfilling about your work, and what continues to drive your passion for this field?

Research has always been my driving passion: to see an idea brought through creation, development, experimentation, analysis and publication in a high-impact journal is an exciting and very rewarding process. Additional aspects of innovation and enterprise are also very rewarding – seeing research ideas incorporated into new products and services is very satisfying. All are extremely hard work.

I also enjoy teaching aspects of my role, especially the ‘lightbulb’ moments. A really rewarding situation is when research, teaching and industrial engagement can be aligned. It is highly satisfying to be teaching knowledge you have created and published, like new control design methods and using examples to show how they have been applied in real-world situations in industry. Often, not all aspects cannot always be brought together, but when they can, it is the sweet spot and high motivation for students. Over time, as my research portfolio has grown, the nature of my role has also changed – a stronger focus now must be placed upon mentoring, leadership and management of people and projects. I can still be found in the lab and presenting work at conferences, but overall, I can’t win if my team doesn’t also win! I am continuously learning and trying to grow, and this has kept me motivated over the years – and I hope it will continue to do so going forwards.

Can you highlight some key milestones in your professional career and how they have influenced your current role at Teesside University?

My career began with a technical apprenticeship at 16 and completing it at 20, followed by earning a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering at 24. These experiences provided me with essential practical and theoretical foundations. Initially an average student, the apprenticeship allowed me to engage in technical industry while studying at a local college, sparking my academic success. Moving into full-time academic studies, I obtained a Doctorate in Robotics and AI at 28, a significant milestone in my family. Publishing my research and securing grant funding marked important achievements, demonstrating my capability in scientific circles. Becoming a full professor in 2020 was a crowning achievement while being recognized as one of the top ten influencers on Net Zero in the UK was a recent milestone. These accomplishments have shaped my character and contributed to my role at Teesside University.

What is your teaching philosophy and how do you ensure your students are engaged and motivated? 

I was, and still am, interested not only in how things work but also in why we build and operate them. For me, the ‘why’ is vital in teaching STEM subjects, especially where deep math or analysis is involved: it keeps the inquisitive mind motivated, and at higher levels, it also helps to frame our research questions, justify our funding applications, and drive our analytical creativity. My teaching philosophy is largely based upon problem-driven development: start by explaining ‘the why’: why we are going to look at a particular topic: by giving a motivating example drawn from industry, perhaps. This identifies a problem in a context which learners should be familiar with. Then, explain ‘the how’: how a solution is going to be crafted to solve the problem, what theory (e.g., physics and math) will be used and how it will be applied. Finally, cover ‘the what’: what is the solution (in the context of a real-world problem). It can be applied equally well to fundamental theory (why use the Laplace Transform? To solve complicated equations in linear calculus using algebra and an integral transform to compress linear signals, how to apply the transform and what examples look like in the context of real linear signals) through to applications (why use a speed governor? To regulate the speed of machines connected to a steam turbine, how we can apply dynamics and algebra to obtain and fine-tune models of mechanical and thermal components and connections and what it looks like when implemented in a practical ball-governor). Overall, I find that this problem-based learning approach works well – and keeping deep technical sessions to around 30 minutes between breaks also keeps minds fresh. Putting deep technical materials into smaller online lectures is also a good idea to keep the focus in the session on why it’s being applied, with deep derivations, proofs and analysis kept for self-learning.

How do you think the education system, particularly in engineering, needs to evolve to better prepare students for future challenges?

Traditionally, engineering is seen as a hard subject to study at degree and post-degree level, there is little doubt about it. The heavy, formal requirements around applied physics and math can indeed be challenging, especially for those coming from pre-degree pathways which may focus more upon vocational aspects within the disciplines. Both skill sets are clearly important, but the former comes more sharply into focus in HE. Problem-based learning seems particularly effective in these situations.

How do you see artificial intelligence and machine learning impacting the field of Control Engineering and Systems Informatics?

Digital control systems and artificial intelligence (AI) exhibit significant parallels and intersections. Control engineering involves designing and optimizing systems that regulate other devices, while AI focuses on enabling machines to perceive environments and make intelligent decisions to achieve goals. When digital control systems are implemented, they use sensors to perceive and actuators to regulate environments, akin to AI systems. Informatics, data science and machine learning play crucial roles, particularly in system identification with empirical models like ARMA or ANN and in advanced digital control such as adaptive learning and optimization with MARL and MPC. Despite these techniques’ historical roots, recent advancements in IoT, embedded systems, cloud computing, and algorithm design have made practical implementations feasible across various industries, suggesting continued growth in this integration.

What role do you think engineers and researchers have in influencing public policy and decision-making on technological issues?

In any democratic society, individuals are entitled to their opinions, and governance reflects the majority will of the public. However, not every decision can or should be left to a public referendum. Elected representatives are entrusted to make decisions and formulate policies on behalf of their constituents. It is logical for these representatives to seek guidance from qualified experts when shaping policy, including engineers and scientists for technological matters, alongside economists and union representatives. While public input is valued in elections, elected officials should prioritize trusted and reliable expert opinions when formulating policies in areas such as transportation, education, technology and entertainment regulation. Acknowledging imperfections in politics, the integration of expert advice into policy-making by elected representatives is likely to yield balanced outcomes.

What are your hopes for the future of Teesside University and its role in shaping the next generation of engineers and researchers? How do you hope to inspire the next generation of engineers and researchers through your work?

Since around 2016, Teesside University has started a period of transformation change, with digital technologies for learning, teaching, research and enterprise at its heart. We have set a future-facing learning strategy, structured our digital offer and made sure that digital technologies and data science underpin all relevant course offerings. All our undergraduate students are given a new iPad when starting our full-time courses to enable equitable technology access. We were the first UK University to fully join Siemens connected curriculum to ensure engineering graduates are both digital natives and industry-ready. In my own school – computing, engineering and digital technologies – we have re-structured our research and innovation activities to better align with the current direction of travel. We created two research centers (sustainable engineering and digital innovation) and have opened two innovation centers (net zero and manufacturing digitalization). We have also opened research centers in bioinformatics, healthcare and others. Our industrial engagement is strong regionally, nationally and internationally and enables us to offer placements and internships with SMEs and larger industries. I hope to inspire the next generation through my own teaching, industrial engagement and research outputs – in ways that are inclusive and allow them to participate, as well.

The post Michael Short: Pioneering the Future of Engineering and Informatics appeared first on Insights Success.

Access to quality education remains a fundamental right that should be afforded to every child, regardless of their socioeconomic background, ethnicity, or geographic location. Despite progress, quality education still remains a critical challenge in South Africa. Since the end of apartheid, many children still lack opportunities to reach their full potential.

Addressing this issue for the nation’s future prosperity and social cohesion, David’s passion for education and community development has profoundly directed his vision, following the philosophy of ‘Teach for All.’

Meet David Oliphant, Co-Founder and CEO of Teach the Nation (TTN), whose journey from the challenging streets of Cape Town to the helm of a transformative organization is an example of the power of education and perseverance.

David’s upbringing in a marginalized community was not just a chapter in his life; it became the foundation of his mission. The daily struggles he witnessed and experienced firsthand gave him a unique perspective on the systemic inequalities that plague South Africa’s education system. Instead of accepting these challenges as insurmountable, Oliphant saw them as a call to action.

Teach the Nation, under his leadership, has developed as an alarm of optimism in the educational domain. The organization’s core belief is simple yet powerful: every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, deserves access to quality education. This is not just a lofty ideal for him; it’s a personal mission rooted in his own experiences.

What sets TTN apart is its focus on developing a community of leaders who share David’s vision. By nurturing a network of educators, mentors, and advocates, TTN is creating a ripple effect of positive change that extends far beyond the classroom. This approach recognizes that true transformation requires more than just resources; it also needs passionate individuals committed to long-term change.

His leadership style is deeply informed by his background. He brings a level of empathy and understanding to his role that can only come from lived experience. This authenticity has allowed TTN to connect with communities in a way that many other organizations struggle to achieve.

The impact of Teach the Nation under his guidance has been significant. While specific metrics are not provided, the organization’s growing influence in South African education circles speaks volumes. TTN is not just providing education; it’s reshaping the narrative around what’s possible for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

As he looks to the future, his vision for TTN remains ambitious yet grounded in reality. He understands that building a brighter future for all South Africans is a marathon, not a sprint. But with every child reached, every community engaged, and every leader developed, Teach the Nation is inching closer to realizing Oliphant’s dream of educational equality.

Below are the interview highlights:

Could you please give a brief introduction to your company and its inception story?

At Teach the Nation, we believe that by investing in the leadership potential of our fellows and students, we can create a ripple effect of change that extends beyond the classroom. Our alumni become part of a global network of leaders who are dedicated to building a more equitable and just education system for all children in South Africa, regardless of their socio-economic background.

From our first meeting at the Young African Leaders Initiative to the thriving non-profit organization we are today, Teach the Nation remains committed to our founding vision of a South Africa where every child has access to quality education and the opportunity to reach their full potential.

How have your personal experiences growing up in a low-income community in Cape Town shaped your passion for education and community development?

I firmly believe that God did not intend for us to live in fear or to be deprived of the opportunity to thrive. Every individual deserves access to quality education, a safe environment, and the chance to build a better future for themselves and their loved ones.

Education, in my view, is the most powerful lever for change. By providing young people in marginalized communities with an education that prepares them for the future world of work and equips them with the skills and resilience to navigate life’s challenges, we can break the cycle of poverty and create a more equitable society.

As a Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) fellow, what key insights or lessons did you gain that inspired you to co-found Teach the Nation?

One of the most valuable lessons I gained from YALI was the power of diversity and collaboration. Working alongside 134 leaders from across the SADAC region was an incredible opportunity to learn from a wide range of perspectives and experiences.

This diversity of thought allowed us to approach challenges in unique and innovative ways, and to develop solutions that were truly grounded in the needs of local communities.

Can you share an example of how Teach the Nation is working to break down the walls of segregation in communities created by the apartheid regime?

Teach the Nation is addressing the legacy of apartheid by working in under-resourced schools and communities where overcrowded classrooms, a lack of resources, and low motivation persist.

We recruit local leaders with NQF level 7 qualifications from these communities to serve as role models, showing students what is possible. As a child from a background of domestic violence and drug addiction, I share my story of hope as an example of overcoming barriers.

Our fellows have started women’s empowerment programs, raised academic results, and impacted over 40,000 learners in four years by developing local leaders to solve local challenges.

What role do you believe community and youth leadership should play in addressing historical injustices and ensuring access to quality education in South Africa?

While outside support is always welcome, we must prioritize the capacity-building of local communities and their leaders. These individuals have a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within their contexts and are well-positioned to develop solutions that are relevant and effective.

As a society, we must prioritize the development of community and youth leadership, recognizing the vital role they play in building a more just and equitable South Africa. Through targeted investments in education, capacity building, and leadership development, we can unlock the full potential of our communities and pave the way for a brighter future for all.

What challenges have you faced in transitioning from your role at Old Mutual Investment Group to becoming a full-time CEO of Teach the Nation, and how have you overcome them?

In a for-profit environment, you can easily inspire someone and motivate a partnership through a research project document that reflects a positive financial return. But in the non-profit space, you need to inspire and motivate for social impact rather than financial return.

I have to now inspire a country and a group of fellows around the change we want to see at the country level, and that language and way of being were an adjustment for me. Fundraising for social impact is also a big adjustment compared to selling a service.

Can you describe a particularly rewarding experience or success story that has come out of Teach the Nation’s programs?

It is rewarding that in 2020, people thought we were crazy when we wanted to launch Teach the Nation, and they thought our goals in terms of the number of recruits were too big to recruit 100 people in 2021; we achieved recruiting 102 recruits in 2021.

Fast forward: we have mostly achieved all of our goals, and now principals are coming to us for support and want us to recruit fellows for their schools and also support them with whole-school improvement.

We also have a partnership with the National Department of Basic Education, and they want to partner with us to expand our program nationally.

The post David Oliphant: Educating for Equality appeared first on Insights Success.

The best universities play a crucial role in shaping the minds of future leaders, innovators, and thinkers. They provide a platform where students can gain comprehensive knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and enrich creativity. These institutions emphasize professional development and hands-on learning, nurturing an environment where students can innovate and gain real-world, active learning experiences. This approach to education is essential in today’s competitive job market, where practical experience and industry-relevant skills are highly valued by employers.

One such institution that embodies this approach is Utah Tech University. Fully embracing its “active learning. active life.” philosophy, Utah Tech is a comprehensive polytechnic university. With nearly 300 academic programs, the university is committed to providing students with the tools and experiences necessary to thrive in their chosen fields. This commitment is reflected in its personalized education approach in which active learning experiences vary from student to student, but translate to one thing for all: career readiness.

Utah Tech’s impactful work extends beyond the classroom. They believe in the core principle of preparing students to be fully ready to enter the workforce upon graduation. This is accomplished by ensuring that students have plenty of hands-on learning opportunities, whether it’s interning with local tech start-up companies, teaching in local school district classrooms, conducting undergraduate research, or helping the community through service learning.

Let’s explore how Utah Tech University is tailoring the future of education through its innovative approach:

Embracing Active Learning for Career Readiness

Through its “active learning. active life.” approach to education, Utah Tech University serves as the quintessential example of a comprehensive polytechnic university. With an emphasis on career readiness and hands-on learning across all of its nearly 300 academic programs, Utah Tech is committed to preparing students for successful careers and meaningful lives.

Courtney White, the interim president of Utah Tech University, stated, “The core of our education is to prepare our students to be fully ready to enter the workforce the day they graduate. To accomplish this, our students make, create, and innovate in the classroom and online while gaining real-world active learning experiences in a wide variety of ways.”

In fact, 95% of Utah Tech graduates are employed or entering graduate school or the military within six months of graduation.

Internship Experience

For Jake Harber, a junior majoring in communication, experiencing the workforce firsthand through a professional internship is making a significant difference in his education. As a student, he works on public-facing projects, such as magazine stories, news articles, and social media posts.

He shared, “Having an internship has been incredibly impactful and supplemental to the education I’ve received at Utah Tech University. By applying the skills I’m learning in the classroom in a real-world setting, I feel more career-ready and confident entering the workforce. Plus, thanks to my internship, I have already started growing my professional network.”

From Classroom to Real-World Experience

When students are in the classroom, they are fully immersed in an individualized learning experience, thanks to an average class size of 23 students. As part of class assignments, students in the technical writing program participate in a community-based learning component by writing grant proposals on behalf of community organizations to help them secure much-needed resources.

Additionally, students in Utah Tech’s Modern Languages Program are deeply involved with the implementation of the dual language immersion program in the local school district. Media students run a radio station open to the community, and the Digital Forensics Crime Lab assists with law enforcement agencies’ investigations. All these activities offer students real-world experience directly related to their future careers.

Other active learning experiences prepare students for diverse career opportunities that meet workforce demands in the region’s top three industries: tourism, construction, and healthcare. For example, when Black Desert began building a golf course, resort, and convention center in the area, the university added a hospitality management program to train the thousands of top-level, skilled workers the resort would need.

Innovative Solutions Through Education

In addition to building programs that prepare the future workforce for the region’s top industries, the university is working to add programs and affiliated academic centers in up-and-coming industries relevant to Utah Tech’s unique location in St. George, Utah. For instance, the university is leading the way in developing the DeserTech industry to leverage abundant resources such as sunlight and create solutions to challenges such as limited access to water that come with living in a desert climate.

Furthermore, the university is expanding its genomics offerings to collaborate with Intermountain Health and build on the healthcare system’s local research and expertise in this field. Utah Tech is also enhancing the endurance sports tech industry for the benefit of athletes who travel from all around the globe to participate in annual events such as the Ironman 70.3 North American Championship, Huntsman World Senior Games, and St. George Marathon that are hosted in the university’s backyard.

Utah Tech also maintains strong partnerships with industry leaders to provide opportunities for students to participate in real-world learning. For example, the university and St. George Regional Hospital collaborate on research, share resources, and work together to enable students to participate in clinical experiences at the hospital.

Aligning Education with Industry Needs

Taking advantage of the vast knowledge and experience in its local community, Utah Tech has assembled advisory boards for each of its six academic colleges, some specific majors, and all its accredited clinical programs. Industry leaders ensure that the university’s classroom instruction remains relevant and aligned with the evolving needs in the field.

Advisory board members also connect the university with community partners who ensure students’ hands-on learning opportunities include key experiences specific to their respective fields. Additionally, many of the university’s administrators serve on boards of area businesses and organizations to stay connected to key industry leaders and provide additional opportunities for staying informed of top employers’ needs.

The Supportive Role of Career Services

Utah Tech makes extra support easily accessible to students by housing Career Services right in the heart of campus. Here, students receive assistance with searching for the right internship, job, or graduate school. The experienced and knowledgeable staff of Career Services is even available to teach students how to create the perfect resume and cover letter, conduct mock job interviews, and coach them on how to create the perfect career plan.

Dottie Catlin, the executive director of career services at the university, states, “We prepare students to be successful at work at all phases of their career, whether it’s practical experiences related to their major or full-time jobs after graduation.”

To meet the individual needs of students, the center offers one-on-one career coaching to help students decide what industries are a good fit for them based on career assessment results and research. Additionally, Career Services offers career fairs, where students can meet hundreds of employers; a Career Workshop class in which 18 modules prepare students for job searching; and networking nights with the university’s Alumni Association so current students can connect with graduates who studied in the same field.

Outside of central career services, individual colleges work to prepare students to graduate career-ready. For example, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences offers a careers class every semester that explores careers associated with the humanities and social sciences. Additionally, the university has a regional pathway coordinator who links the university to regional employers, workforce services, and the local technical college to build a network of stakeholders who are working collaboratively to provide education-to-workforce pathways.

Bridging Academia and Technology

In a revolutionary move, Utah Tech has partnered with the technology workforce development company Pluralsight. This partnership offers the Utah Tech community access to more than 7,000 self-paced technology programs.

As a result, students in all areas of study can enhance their technology-based skills and digital fluency, preparing them to incorporate the latest technology into everything they do. Specifically, these noncredit-bearing courses offer labs and skill assessments that ensure students understand what they are learning and, when applicable, prepare them for relevant certification tests.

All these initiatives add up to one primary goal: ensuring that a Utah Tech education accurately reflects what is happening in real industry workplaces.

The Impact of Intimate Class Sizes on Learning

“Attending Utah Tech has been instrumental in my education,” Trevor Moser, a junior majoring in accounting, states. He also adds, “The intimate class sizes create a sense of community where professors know you. This environment has allowed me to share thoughts in discussions, receive valuable feedback, and build strong personal connections with classmates and professors. As a result, I am more confident in expressing ideas and have had plenty of hands-on learning opportunities.”

The university’s commitment to active learning and career readiness has resonated with students and the community, as demonstrated by the institution’s explosive growth. In fact, in the last decade alone, Utah Tech has increased the number of academic programs by 230%, grown student enrollment by 50%, built or renovated 28 buildings, and nearly doubled scholarship funds awarded to students.

The Promise of Cooperative Education

Looking forward, Utah Tech will launch a cooperative education program in the fall. In this program, students will work full-time for a semester at a cooperating organization to gain extensive professional work experience and prepare for their first jobs. As Utah Tech continues to grow, it will only expand the depth and breadth of its impact.

White said, “For over a century, Utah Tech University has offered life-changing educational opportunities that set its graduates and workforce up for continued success.” Further, he added, “By pairing the most affordable tuition in the state with high-quality, hands-on learning opportunities, we are in a great position to continue making a difference in the lives of its students and community members for generations to come.”

The post Utah Tech University: Building Career Readiness through an Innovative Educational Vision appeared first on Insights Success.

Aligned with this line of philosophy, Columbus State University in Georgia is emerging as a baton of innovation and excellence. With a commitment to academic rigor and a focus on cultivating creativity, Columbus State provides students with a transformative learning experience. Offering over 90 undergraduate and graduate degrees and programs including accredited and nationally recognized programs in various fields, the university empowers students to explore their passions and pursue their academic and professional goals.

At Columbus State, education extends outside the classroom. Through hands-on learning opportunities such as internships, clinical experiences and research projects, students gain practical skills and valuable industry connections. This emphasis on real-world experiences ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of today’s global economy.

Moreover, Columbus State’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation is evident in how it embraces different perspectives and cultures represented among its student body. By promoting dialogue among students and the community, the university creates an environment where students from all backgrounds feel valued and supported. As a forward-thinking institution, Columbus State University is shaping minds but also shaping the future. By providing students with the tools they need to succeed in an advancing world, Columbus State is preparing the leaders, innovators and problem-solvers of tomorrow.

Empowering Student Success

Columbus State University offers a range of academic and career support initiatives from enrollment to graduation. Summer bridge and year-round mentoring programs aid first-year students in transitioning to college life. Advising guides students in choosing majors and courses relevant to their career goals.

Career development services assist graduating students in securing desirable employment opportunities. Students also benefit from personalized mentorship, hands-on experiences, collaborative research projects, and resume-building internships.

Advancing Careers

Columbus State University is among the University System of Georgia institutions offering nexus degree programs to help more Georgians access high-demand career fields. These degrees were created in direct response to talent demand analysis with employers in these industries.

Columbus State hosts three of these offerings—cybersecurity with an emphasis in financial technology, film production and public safety. They provide fast-tracked options for students to enter these career fields—especially for students who have never attended college, those who want to transition into a high-demand field, and current professionals who want to add targeted or complementary credentials to their previous education or training in the field.

The university is also recognized by MilitaryFriendly.com as a top-five military-friendly institution nationwide among universities with less than 10,000 students. Its specialized Military-Connected Student Services team assists active-duty soldiers, veterans, retirees and their families with transitioning from military life to civilian learning by obtaining transfer credit for previous academic studies and military service. This helps in utilizing military-affiliated educational, financial and scholarship benefits.

The university’s unique partnerships with the U.S. Army’s Captains Career Courses and Sergeant Major Academy nationwide mean active-duty officers can easily transfer military credit toward graduate degrees in organizational leadership, public administration, or strategic communication.

Forging Futures

Columbus State University maintains close ties with local, regional and statewide employers, ensuring alignment of academic programs with industry demands. President Stuart Rayfield emphasizes “career-ready competencies” such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and conflict resolution. These skills are highly valued by local employers and Columbus-based Fortune 500 leaders, shaping the region’s future workforce.

Connecting Classrooms and Communities

At Columbus State University, faculty excel as educators, researchers and professionals offering valuable insights for student success. Each academic program integrates practical applications emphasizing career-ready competencies essential to employers. Students engage in co-curricular leadership activities and gain industry-specific experience during upper-level coursework.

Through partnerships with local professionals, students participate in academic-based research, internships, practicum placements and clinical experiences tailored to their majors. These opportunities extend to collaboration with corporate, nonprofit, civic and military partners in the Columbus area.

The university’s credit-bearing Servant Leadership Program empowers students to impact the community by applying academic knowledge and personal passions. Meanwhile, the Honors College provides a close-knit academic community where students delve deeper into their degrees by conducting research alongside faculty mentors and presenting their findings. These specialized experiences enhance students’ academic journey at Columbus State.

Bridging Academia and Industry

Columbus State University fosters strong connections between academic programs and industry through internship and employment networks, including its Center for Career Design. Notably, partnerships offer career pathways in high-demand fields such as teacher education, guaranteeing contracts with the local Muscogee County School District for eligible graduates. Over half of the district’s educators, counselors and administrators are Columbus State alumni.

Nursing students benefit from apprenticeships and clinical rotations in local hospitals, with up to 70% receiving job offers through these opportunities providing pathways to long-term healthcare careers. The university’s cybersecurity programs offer a direct route to technology careers, particularly in financial technology, with many students securing job offers from local employers like TSYS and Synovus before graduation.

Film production students gain internships and employment in Columbus and across Georgia’s thriving $6 billion film industry through partnerships with the Georgia Film Academy and Flat Rock Studios. Columbus State is home to Georgia’s sole bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in robotics engineering. The master’s program boasts a high employment rate. Undergraduate enrollment has increased tenfold since the program’s 2019 launch, while the master’s program has tripled in size since its 2021 inception.

Cultivating Global Citizens

Columbus State University fosters mentorship starting in small classroom settings, where students engage closely with instructors. This relationship extends through involvement in over 80 student organizations, covering various interests such as social, fraternal, service and professional groups. Students forge connections with faculty, staff, industry experts and potential employers, thereby enriching their academic journey.

The Honors College offers an intellectually stimulating environment where students collaborate with faculty on research projects that further expand their scholarly pursuits. The Servant Leadership Program transforms the community into a learning space allowing students to apply their academic knowledge to community service under mentorship from civic leaders.

Columbus State’s Center for Global Engagement provides opportunities for students to explore diverse cultures through on-campus activities and international study abroad programs. Over 250 students annually participate in these excursions, which ensures broadening their global perspective, building lasting connections and earning academic credits.

At Columbus State, the educational experience extends outside of the classroom, nurturing personal and professional growth through mentorship, community engagement and global exploration.

The Path to Success

Columbus State University is revamping its core curriculum based on input from local employers including Fortune 500, Fortune 1000 and Fortune Global 500 companies. These employers commend the university for preparing students in their fields and emphasize the importance of “career-ready competencies” necessary for today’s graduates to be marketable and successful in the global marketplace.

President Rayfield highlights these skills as highly valued by employers locally, regionally and nationally—further guiding the university in strengthening its focus on them. This collaboration ensures that Columbus State graduates are equipped with the essential skills sought after in today’s job market.

Career Readiness

Columbus State University boasts a 95% satisfaction rate among graduating undergraduate students who affirm that their degree prepares them for their first job or further education. Over 90% of seniors acknowledge the university’s role in fostering career-ready competencies such as creativity, critical thinking, leadership, professionalism, conflict resolution, problem-solving, and respect for inclusion. These findings underscore Columbus State’s commitment to equipping students with essential skills for success in their chosen paths.

The post Columbus State University: Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders with Student Support Ecosystem appeared first on Insights Success.

In the rapidly changing world of higher education, a transformational force has developed that nurtures students’ potential. The private higher education sector plays a pivotal role in preparing individuals for a future that demands adaptability and innovation.

At the heart of this sector stands Eduvos, a name synonymous with academic excellence and a commitment to student empowerment. With a rich history dating back to 1979, this private Higher Education Institution in South Africa has undergone significant transformations, embracing modern technologies and fostering a forward-thinking approach to education. It stands as a cornerstone in bridging academia and industry, empowering graduates for global impact, and prioritizing student wellness in higher education.

Eduvos has evolved into a progressive and agile institution, actively incorporating AI and VR technologies into its curriculum. Offering over 20 internationally recognized qualifications, Eduvos focuses on developing knowledge, skill and competence by providing adaptable learning modes to cater to diverse student needs.

At the helm of Eduvos’s leadership is Siegie Brownlee, a seasoned professional in private higher education management. As the CEO, Siegie’s strategic vision and resilience have been instrumental in steering Eduvos toward success. Her commitment to student success, organizational excellence, and the integration of academia, technology, industry, and innovation reflects Eduvos’s ethos and positions it as a driving force in the future of higher education. Her innovative, agile thinking propels Eduvos forward to remain relevant and on top of its game.

Let’s delve deeper to learn more:

Empowering Africa’s Future through Quality Education

Siegie has dedicated over 25 years to management in Private Higher Education, a career path she wouldn’t trade for anything else. It brings her immense joy, fulfillment, and purpose.

As a dynamic and visionary leader, Siegie hopes to reshape the Education Industry in Africa, with Eduvos leading the way. Siegie inspires and motivates employees to achieve more through her growth–mindset and focus on the organization’s mission, values and culture. Her extensive experience in private higher education has given her a deep understanding of the factors that drive a successful Higher Education Institution, industry partnerships and student success.

Siegie is a strategic and agile thinker equipped with the knowledge, insights, and experience needed to successfully transform organizations and departments. She is known for building high-performing teams and for constantly pushing boundaries with her eye constantly set on the future. Her adaptability and resilience in overcoming challenges motivate leaders and employees to succeed in the face of adversity.

She embodies the values of the organizations she represents and leads authentically with integrity and style. Siegie’s success can be attributed to her adaptability to an ever-changing business landscape and her ability to communicate with ease and grace in both public speaking and through active listening.

Siegie’s commitment to moulding the future of higher education is unwavering. She is driven to provide quality, affordable private higher education where students are at the centre of the learning model. Her mission is to ensure that graduates enter society equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to make a positive contribution to society and have a measurable impact on their careers and the organisations they work for.

In summary, Siegie’s recipe for success in the higher education market is a perfect blend of academia, technology, industry, and innovation.

Eduvos’s mission and purpose align perfectly with Siegie’s outlook and values. Joining and growing Eduvos has given her the opportunity to help establish a much-needed institution that provides affordable, quality higher education to the African continent, thereby helping to rectify some of the prevalent socio-economic injustices.

At Eduvos, the belief is that Africa is too rich to be poor. For this reason, their mission is to shape potential, student by student, towards Africa’s potential. More than 40% of the world’s youth is African. The goal is to empower these young people through education to make a difference in the continent.

Embracing Modern Technologies for Future-Ready Education

Eduvos is characterized as a progressive, forward-thinking, agile, and fast-paced institution. The organisation and its staff embody a “growth mindset,” and fully embrace modern technologies, innovations, and changes to the professional and academic landscape. This approach is aimed at equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to prosper in the current and future working world.

At Eduvos, there is a constant effort to update the curriculum, classrooms, and teaching methods to reflect changes in the professional and academic world. The institution has embraced the “flipped classroom model,” which encourages students to go through basic learning in their own space and time, and that campus sessions include face-to-face debate, collaboration, connecting with industry, problem-solving and learning from others.

Eduvos aims to embrace the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, such as AI and VR. It has partnered with the U.S.-based company EON Reality to incorporate AI and VR into its teaching. This strategy ensures that students have a competitive edge in the job market.

Bridging the Skills Gap with Future-Ready Qualifications

Eduvos offers over 20 fully accredited, internationally recognized qualifications across four future-facing faculties. The range of qualifications includes degrees, honor’s degrees, higher certificates, pre-degree foundation programs, and online short courses.

The institution strives to drive relevance. As such, their qualifications are constantly updated, reassessed, and added to ensure they meet current and future demands of the working world. For instance, in 2023, an Azure AI Engineering qualification was launched to meet the ever-growing need for skilled AI engineers, especially as AI tools like ChatGPT boomed in 2023.

Recognizing that gaming and esports are massive markets, both globally and specifically in Africa, the institution launched two gaming qualifications to help bridge the skills gap in gaming in Africa.

Adaptable Learning for Today’s Professionals

The institution offers various modes of learning, which include studying on campus, online, and distance learning, both full-time and part-time. This range ensures that no matter where individuals are in their learning journey, there will be a qualification that suits their needs. For instance, many of the qualifications are aimed at working professionals who want to upskill and reskill in order to stay relevant in the job market.

Creating Vibrant Learning Spaces for Holistic Education

The new future-fit campuses are places where innovation, technology, academia, and industry converge. They are modern, equipped with advanced technology, and serve as hubs of learning and socializing for students. These campuses feature pause areas, canteens, and Innovation Hubs.

The flipped classroom model enables students to engage with the study material at their own pace. When they attend class, they utilize the opportunity to problem-solve, discuss case studies, collaborate with industry and colleagues, and ask questions, having already acquired a basic understanding of the topic. This approach fosters critical thinking, practical application, and a deeper engagement with the study material.

Face-to-face campus engagement plays a significant role in the educational model. It facilitates interaction among students, industry professionals, and lecturers. The aim is to provide students with a holistic learning experience, and the campuses play a crucial role in this endeavour. The campuses are vibrant spaces where students can collaborate, socialize, and receive a quality education.

Fostering Community and Innovation

Eduvos is committed to providing students with a holistic learning experience. This includes an excellent academic experience, wellness experience, campus experience, and a quality customer experience. The campuses are imbued with an “Edu-vibe” and a sense of community among the students (affectionately referred to as “Vossies”), lecturers, and staff. The community is diverse, with the student body comprising students from over 40 countries.

Eduvos strives to shape the potential of its students in a holistic manner, encompassing academic, career, and psycho-social perspectives. The team of Student Affairs Advisors act as “personal bankers” to the students, always available to assist, support, and guide them. The Student Affairs agenda is rich and varied, spanning student wellness, academic support, student funding, student activities, career guidance, and assistance with employment.

The campuses serve as hubs for various student activities and clubs, whether they are Moot court teams, debate clubs, poetry slams, or esports tournaments. This year, esports leagues were launched at all 12 campuses, making the institution one of the largest higher education leagues in the country. Esports offers numerous learning opportunities, especially in STEM fields. Students are required to work in teams, analyze their strategies, and understand computer hardware and software. This has become a major way for students across campuses to connect with each other.

Bridging Academia and Industry for Career Success

The institution recognizes that it is only the first step in its students’ career paths. As such, the qualifications are designed to enhance the relevance of the students, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.

A dedicated Employability Centre is in place, which hosts events such as CV writing workshops and industry breakfasts and shares employment and internship opportunities with students. The Employability Centre strives to connect students with industry professionals for networking and learning opportunities. It also provides assistance to students who wish to pursue further studies after their undergraduate degree.

Career Fairs are hosted on the campuses, where students can interact with industry professionals and learn more about the job opportunities in their chosen field of study. These fairs also provide information about job opportunities and internship programs available to them after graduation.

The institution has continued to expand its Industry Partnership list, aligned with the expansion of its work-integrated learning programs. Numerous Employability Affiliation Agreements were established in 2023, serving as a valuable bridge to enhance students’ employability by nurturing practical skills, industry knowledge, and networking opportunities. Through participation in internships, joint graduate programs, and collaboration with industry professionals at various events, students gain real-world insights and hands-on experience, making them more appealing to employers.

Eduvos has strengthened its partnerships with Old Mutual, Pepkor IT, and the National Funeral Directors’ Association, among others. These partnerships benefit the students as they provide opportunities to meet with and learn from professionals in their field.

Keeping Academia Relevant through Industry Collaboration

Each of the academic faculties maintains a close advisory circle across the various industries in which they operate. The faculties are also accredited and aligned with many professional bodies, which further ensure currency and relevance. An outward-looking approach is adopted to ensure that students benefit from industry exposure through mandatory Work Integrated Learning Projects, exposure to Guest Lecturers, and working on real business problems and case studies.

The lecturers are a mix of academics and industry professionals who are aware of the current industry trends and understand how the curriculum needs to evolve to stay relevant. The Academic Team is constantly revising the content of each qualification to ensure that students receive an education that is relevant and will make them invaluable employees once they enter the workforce.

Empowering Graduates for Global Impact

The institution’s graduates are making a difference in various fields all over the world. In 2023, the institution received the PMR Africa Diamond Arrow Award as the best private higher education provider in South Africa. PMR.Africa interviewed respondents, mostly line managers and HR managers, from large companies, national, provincial, and local government departments, and state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in South Africa that employ graduates and students from various providers of private higher education. Respondents rated graduates from private higher education institutions across 12 criteria, including their application of knowledge in the workplace, innovation, and academic knowledge. Based on these responses, the institution’s graduates were awarded the highest scores.

Five students from the institution made it to the Top 100 of this year’s DHL Grad Star Awards. The institution’s Graphic Design students demonstrated their exceptional talent and creativity by winning accolades at the prestigious annual Student Gold Pack Awards.

At the end of 2022, the institution became the first private higher education institution in South Africa to provide its students with access to Golden Key. To date, over 300 Eduvos graduates have been invited to join the Golden Key Society.

Bianca Lee Burgess, a graduate of the institution with a degree in graphic design, now works in the world of special effects. She has worked on Bafta and Emmy award-winning shows, including The Book of Boba Fett, The Mandalorian (season 3), and Black Mirror.

Louis Oosthuizen, who worked part-time while studying for his Software Engineering degree at the institution, has since pursued his Bachelor of Science Honours in Information Technology (Software Engineering). Louis is a Full-Stack Developer, developing in a multitude of programming languages. His study experience allowed him to graduate to a developer position instead of working through a graduate program.

Suhanna Pitamber began her learning journey at the institution with a Higher Certificate in Information Systems (Software Development) and has since graduated with an ACCA-accredited Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting qualification. This provided her with the opportunity to do her ACCA articles at one of South Africa’s best audit firms.

Prioritising Mental Health in Higher Education

The institution prioritizes the mental health and wellness of its students. It has dedicated student advisors, academic coaches, and psychologists that students can reach out to. These professionals from the institution offer guidance and support as needed, whether the student is studying on campus or remotely.

Eduvos has partnered with Universal Healthcare in 2024. Universal is a multi-national, full-service healthcare management company, with a proven track record of providing high-quality, affordable, and sustainable health and wellness services. Eduvos students will be able to access Universal’s range of healthcare options to make sure their physical, emotional, and mental health is taken care of.

Africa’s Meta-University: Growth and Innovation

In 2023, the institution welcomed a record number of first-year students, surpassing many public universities in South Africa. It looks forward to growing even more in the coming years.

To accommodate this growth, some of the campuses have been relocated, and plans are underway to expand others. Although these are significant tasks, they are viewed as positive challenges. As mentioned, the world’s youth is in Africa, and they need to be educated. The institution takes pride in being part of the solution.

The goal is to become Africa’s leading meta-university by 2027. This involves expanding digital offerings and incorporating meta-technologies even further into teaching while still providing the highest quality  higher education.

Eduvos: Student Empowerment and Institutional Success

The Eduvos Blog features a section titled “Vossie Features,” where students share their learning journeys. These interactions highlight the tangible, positive influence that Eduvos has on its students.

As noted, Eduvos was awarded the PMR.Africa Diamond Arrow Award this year, which is extremely encouraging for the institution.

The student intake numbers and corporate partnerships in 2023 alone demonstrate that Eduvos is on the right track and aims to build on this momentum.

The post Eduvos: The Shaping Force of Modern Higher Education appeared first on Insights Success.

In the platform where words link cultures and facilitate global dialogue, the demand for language solutions is on the rise. From translation and interpretation services to language learning platforms and localization strategies, this industry empowers individuals and organizations to connect, collaborate, and thrive in diverse environments. It is an industry that thrives on the power of words, the art of interpretation, and the science of technology.

In this growing industry of language solutions, one such company that stands out for addressing the pressing need for language solutions is Mastervoice. Since its inception, Mastervoice has carved a niche for itself as a total language solutions provider.

With a rich history spanning over two decades, the company has demonstrated market expertise in conference interpreting and language technology solutions for multilingual meetings. Mastervoice’s commitment to business ethics, loyalty, and reliability has earned it a reputation for upholding transparency in the international meetings industry.

Guided by the relentless pursuit of excellence by its CEO, Eric Bauwelinck, Mastervoice continues to navigate the evolving sector of language technology, embracing market trends while upholding the timeless value of human interpretation. As we chart a course towards the future, Mastervoice remains poised to redefine the boundaries of linguistic innovation, ensuring that every voice finds resonance in the complexities of global discourse.

Let’s explore Mastervoice’s journey towards shaping the language solutions industry:

The Evolution of a Language Technology Pioneer

Mastervoice was founded in 1998 and celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2023. After almost ten years of work as a freelance conference interpreter for various corporate and institutional clients, Eric established Mastervoice in 1998. It was set up as a total language solutions provider with market expertise in conference interpreting and language technology solutions for multilingual meetings.

Upholding Ethics and Transparency in the Meetings Industry

Business ethics, loyalty, and reliability are essential values in the international meeting industry. This is reflected in the corporate values of Mastervoice by honoring their commitments in all their contracts and by demonstrating consistency in their quality management and recruitment policies for conference interpreters and audiovisual support operators.

Clients value transparency in agreements and contracts, and Mastervoice pays special attention to this in their communication with meeting organizers throughout the entire process, from requests for proposals to planning, coordination, document management, order management, and billing.

Enhancing International Dialogue through Interpretation

International exchanges are facilitated with a clear purpose in mind: to promote social dialogue, to improve relations, to create value, to enhance reputation and brand value, or to improve sustainable development. The value of hiring conference interpreters, as demonstrated by Mastervoice, is reflected in a higher degree of confidence in the international dialogue and a measurable increase in the engagement of meeting participants.

For on-site meetings with a high degree of interactivity and informal discussions during breaks, the role of interpreters is not restricted to interpreting only. Conference interpreters, like those at Mastervoice, contribute to cultural mediation by building mutual trust and improving relationships between international representatives.

The Role of Technology in Planning International Meetings

Customers expect full transparency in the organization and planning of an international meeting. They also want to be involved in the process of fine-tuning the interpreting and audiovisual requirements ahead of the event, especially in a hybrid meeting with applied language technology.

This is a standard that Mastervoice strives to meet. Compliance with international standards in the provision of conference systems with simultaneous interpreting is another key requirement to meet the expectations of international meeting planners and their customers. This is a commitment that Mastervoice takes seriously.

The Human Touch in Linguistic Interpretation

It is worth emphasizing that language is much more than a combination of words and sentences delivered in a certain structure. Every presentation and speech is a human expression of thoughts, ideas, and feelings on a topic of interest, with verbal and non-verbal expressions in each context, with a clear intention to leave a positive impact on audiences and stakeholders.

In this respect, it is essential that these cultural and linguistic connotations are reproduced for the target audience in their native language. The mere reproduction of words, meaning, and syntax, as is the case with machine interpreting, may not suffice to capture the original meaning and intention of the author or speaker.

It is the mission of every linguist at Mastervoice to fully understand the key intention and message of the original speaker and to faithfully reproduce this original message in its context with the intended style, intention, and objective to deliver this message to an audience.

Evaluating the Value of Interpretation

Eric sometimes suggests applying the acid test to measure the added value of interpretation in the context of international meetings. This means that a meeting with simultaneous interpreting is benchmarked against an English-only meeting for the same international audience with the same level of interaction and exchange between delegates. In this test, delegates are expected to participate in the dialogue to identify potential language barriers.

The meeting organizer can use a survey to measure the satisfaction of participants as well as the expected results and objectives. If the meeting with simultaneous interpreting produces better results, it has proven its added value over a meeting without simultaneous interpreting. This may sound like a predictable outcome, but much depends on the required level of interactivity for the meeting participants.

View-and-listen-only webinars may be sufficient to understand the overall content of a presentation or speech without the need for high-level interpretation. In this scenario, machine interpretation could be considered an effective solution.

In the case of a high-level meeting where human interests are at stake, human interpreting can prove its worth over English-only or machine interpreting by providing confidence and reliability in meetings where financial, political, economic, diplomatic, or public interests are at stake.

The Rise of Automated Simultaneous Interpreting

AI is slowly but surely making its mark on the language industry. Neural machine translation and automated speech technology have been around for a while with the need for human post-editing, but the introduction of automated, simultaneous interpreting has caught the interpreting market by surprise in 2023 and 2024.

AI offers instant language access in the form of automated subtitling or machine interpreting, but it is essential to go through the meeting requirements, expectations, and objectives to make an educated choice between human interpreting and automated interpreting.

Commitment to Excellence

Mastervoice sees corporate social responsibility as a key enabler for expanding its capacity to recruit qualified conference interpreters. Their business processes are compliant with international industry standards and best practices, with no less than five industry certifications: ISO 23155:2022 for conference interpreting services, ISO 18841:2018 for interpreting services, ISO 17100 for translation services, ISO 18587:2017 for post-editing of machine translation, and certification to the global industry standard ISO 9001:2015 for simultaneous interpreting, translation services, and applied language technology to support their commitment to offering reliable language solutions.

Good governance at Mastervoice includes equal opportunities in the selection, recruitment, qualification, and assignment of interpreting jobs without discrimination.

Continuous Improvement

Clients communicate their specific needs and key deliverables to Mastervoice’s account management well in advance of the meeting date. Meeting requirements are registered in their interpreter management system as project tasks, which are closely monitored and followed up by a dedicated project coordinator. All assignments are validated by account management in the order management workflow, and a team coordinator is assigned to coordinate on-site meetings.

After each meeting, Mastervoice reaches out to the client for an evaluation and, if necessary, suggestions for improvement. This is part of their standard quality management system for the purpose of continuous improvement.

Foundations of Successful Client Relationships

Eric advises organizations seeking effective language-interpreting solutions for their global operations to reach out to their prospects and clients to discuss their specific needs and requirements. This helps in fine-tuning the organization and meeting planning. He emphasizes the importance of providing professional advice and offering transparency on the full supply chain. His approach is to eliminate concerns and potential risks ahead of the meeting so that clients can focus on their meeting and stakeholders: speakers, guests, participants, and audiences.

In his view, the language industry is a people-based business that requires frequent interaction with clients and suppliers to build sustainable relationships. Automation is great, but there is no equivalent value for the human factor in client-facing exchanges.

Embracing Market Trends in Language Technology

Mastervoice participates in industry leadership councils, advisory boards, and academic research teams to stay abreast of market trends in the field of applied language technology, AI, and market trends in professional interpreting.

In the early days of remote simultaneous interpreting platforms, Mastervoice partnered with the world’s leading providers of interpreter delivery platforms and video conferencing solutions to deliver high-end language technology solutions.

Mastervoice spent hundreds of hours testing interpreting applications with their team of project coordinators, conference interpreters, and videoconferencing platform providers. This experience has led to valuable insights and expertise in remote interpreting and language technology, giving them an edge as experts in remote simultaneous interpreting compliant with industry standards and best practices.

The Future of Interpreting

The biggest challenge today is to identify the difference between use cases for automated interpreting and human interpreting within the current AI hype. When the AI storm dies down, there will be a need for human validation and authentication of the original, and the language industry will be no exception.

There are use cases where AI and machine interpreting will provide a viable solution depending on the needs and expectations of the end users. At the same time, there will be clear scenarios where human interpretation is preferred to validate the original speech.

Finally, there will be a vast gray area between use cases for AI and human interpreting, with opportunities for language service providers to advise, assist, and support clients in making the best choices in applied language technology as language experts and professional end users of these new platforms and solutions.

Mastervoice does not share the pessimistic view of the substitution of human interpreting with AI interpreting, especially where human interests are at stake and where it remains essential to have the original message reliably interpreted and validated by a real human interpreter and not by a machine.

The post Mastervoice:Transforming the Language Services Sector with Inventive Solutions appeared first on Insights Success.

Imagine living and learning in four different countries, Spain, France, Germany and the US, earning a dual degree and mastering global dynamics. As the CEO President, Marta believes that success starts with transformation and that transformation happens after a smart decision. Schiller offers a distinctive Learn-by-Living experience, providing accredited dual degrees and shaping an international mindset for unparalleled employability.

Here, the international curriculum is focused on you and your goals. Whether pursuing Business & Economics, Tech & Data, International Relations, Tourism & Hospitality, or Sustainability, each program is meticulously designed to align with your aspirations.

Immerse yourself in monthly courses delivered in English, blending theory with practice. Industry-expert faculty with international experience bring real-world insights to your learning journey.

Why Schiller? It’s not just a choice—it’s your million reasons to transform. Select your reason and let Schiller guide you towards a future where success means a global perspective and intelligent decisions.

A Visionary’s Tale
Marta stepped into the role of CEO President at Schiller International University in March 2020, bringing with her a solid foundation in investment banking and consulting, as well as a proven track record in academia. Her hands-on experience in business strategy and digital innovation influenced her approach to leading a forward-thinking educational institution.

With her academic credentials, including a Ph.D. and specialized training from Harvard and UCLA, Marta is well-equipped to address the challenges of global higher education. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to integrating practical business insights with the academic excellence required to prepare students for a global and interconnected world, making her a fitting captain for Schiller International University’s journey ahead.

Inspiration, Passion, Transformation

Marta traces her journey back to a fundamental belief in the life-changing impact of education. In her words, “My inspiration to pursue a career in higher education came from a deep belief in the transformative power of education.” Marta embarked on her professional journey in strategy consulting and mergers and acquisitions, all while pursuing a PhD. As she navigated this path, teaching opportunities emerged revealing her true passion. Marta expresses, “I found myself deeply involved in student entrepreneurship, international research projects and program innovation.”

Recognizing the profound impact of higher education, she considers leading the institution and shaping its future a privilege that allows her to contribute to that transformation on a global scale. Her mission is clear – ‘to prepare students both personally and professionally for future leadership roles in an international setting.’ Marta’s story resonates with the belief that education is not just a tool but a powerful force for personal and societal growth.

Connecting Minds Globally

For six decades, Schiller International University has been a beacon of commitment to global citizenship, academic excellence and cultural sensitivity. Marta affirms, “Our guiding principles are designed to create an environment in which every student can achieve success and grow both personally and professionally to work anywhere in the world where opportunities exist.”

The university’s approach revolves around personalized, experiential and immersive learning coupled with a diverse curriculum that fosters critical thinking and practical skills. As Marta emphasizes, “We bring the world to the classroom so that our students are connected to it from the beginning.” This commitment resonates in student interviews and career development showcasing the real-world impact of Schiller International University’s dedication to shaping global leaders.

Resonating Voices

At Schiller International University, diversity isn’t just a buzzword—it’s embedded into the very core of its community. Marta proudly states, “We have students, faculty and staff from 130 nationalities, with as many different educational systems and cultural backgrounds.” Diversity and inclusion are not mere ideals but lived realities on the campus, supported by selective hiring, scholarships and dedicated programs. Marta underlines, “Our campus is a mosaic of global perspectives and we actively cultivate an environment where every voice, regardless of its origin, finds resonance.”

One compelling instance exemplifies the commitment to diverse dialogues. Marta recounts, “We have an ongoing series of talks given by professionals of diverse background. Recently, a journalist spoke to students about the use of fake news in Russia’s war and our classroom included Russian and Ukrainian students, who had to listen to and discuss difficult topics.” This unique setting required mutual respect and tolerance fostering an enriching exchange of perspectives. Diversity and inclusion are embedded in Schiller’s DNA, shaping transformative experiences for students.

Moreover, this commitment extends beyond classrooms. Marta notes, “Throughout the course, students work on projects in multidisciplinary and intercampus teams,” exposing them to diverse viewpoints and mentalities, just like in real-life. This hands-on experience is a powerful catalyst for transformation, preparing our students to thrive in a globally interconnected world.

Future-Ready Education

“At Schiller, innovation is the beating heart of our academic ethos,” asserts Marta. Recognizing the evolving needs of the real world, it champions interdisciplinary profiles that seamlessly blend business and technology transcending traditional educational silos. Marta emphasizes, “Our academic model takes learning beyond the four walls of the classroom,” ensuring students engage with real-world professional experiences.

One standout initiative is the Global Innovation Challenge, where students tackle authentic business problems and propose implementable solutions. Marta proudly shares, “We’ve collaborated with companies like LOEWE Parfums, KPMG, ECOALF, Metro de Madrid, etc.” This hands-on collaboration extends beyond coursework, preparing students for the challenges of the professional realm.

Complementing this is the extracurricular gem, The Global Employability Path, meticulously designed to hone skills most sought after in the workplace. Marta details, “Students participate in real business challenges, simulations, workshops, and volunteer activities,” fostering critical competencies essential in the professional landscape. The program also offers access to a curated catalogue of courses developed in collaboration with industry giant IBM.

Student-centric Excellence

In the dynamic landscape of higher education, Schiller International University stands at the forefront of change, as affirmed by Marta. This embrace translates into a comprehensive upgrade of the four campuses in Madrid, Paris, Heidelberg, and Tampa, where they focus on digital educational technology, curriculum enhancement and student services to foster an engaging and supportive online learning environment.

The unique monthly system aligns seamlessly with the digital context providing a focused learning experience that doesn’t overwhelm students. Marta explains, “Students study one course intensively for the entire month, dedicating three hours each day in class from Monday to Thursday. On Friday, they have free time to engage in extracurricular activities, or to follow any interests they may want to pursue.” This concentrated approach combines individual and collaborative work, allowing students to complete a specific course, earn credits and seamlessly transition to the next subject.

The monthly system also fosters immersive learning through real projects with companies. Marta highlights, “It contributes to an immersive and experiential learning approach, and it has offered great learning outcomes.” At Schiller, the student experience is a cornerstone. From the classroom environment to the dedicated faculty and the Student Experience staff, every element converges to ensure students have the tools they need to accomplish their goals.

Alumni Network

Entrepreneurship and innovation thrive at Schiller International University, guided by the university’s Academic Model commitment to experiential learning and real-world impact. Marta asserts, “We nurture entrepreneurship and innovation through experiential learning methodologies, faculty entrepreneurial experiences and startup collaboration initiatives.”

One such initiative is the collaboration with La Nave in Madrid, a startup accelerator program in Spain. Marta highlights that it provides students with mentorship, resources and access to investors. This real-world connection propels students into the heart of entrepreneurial ecosystems preparing them for the challenges and opportunities in the startup landscape.

The extracurricular Global Innovation Challenges are an embodiment of the hands-on approach. Marta explains, “Students are put in direct contact with real business challenges providing interaction with employers throughout the process.” This unique experience not only hones their problem-solving skills but also expands their professional networks opening doors to job opportunities.

The strong network of alumni and industry partners plays a pivotal role in supporting and collaborating with students. Marta affirms, “They actively boost their employability profile.” At Schiller International University, the commitment to entrepreneurship goes beyond education—it’s a dynamic journey shaping resilient, innovative professionals ready to make a mark in the business world.

Global Challenges, Local Impact

Service learning stands as a cornerstone in Schiller International University’s methodology, seamlessly incorporating community service, instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience. This approach not only instils civic responsibility but also fosters a global mindset and cultural agility, contributing to community empowerment.

The academic model is dedicated to nurturing committed leaders who leverage their knowledge to address pressing global issues. To achieve this, each of the four campuses features a robust service-learning program engaging students in community service on various scales and responding to emergency situations with sensitivity.

Collaborations with local and international organizations, such as Fundacion Mashumano in Madrid, Red Cross in Heidelberg and A Coeur de la Rue in Paris are pivotal. Marta highlights, “We train future professionals to be aware of the impact they can have on the world’s most pressing issues. To do this, we partner with local and international organizations to participate in local initiatives each year.” These partnerships not only contribute to local causes but also provide international students with a profound understanding of global challenges creating a unique avenue for cross-cultural learning. Service learning at Schiller is a transformative journey fostering responsible global citizens.

Your Career, Our Commitment

Schiller International University prioritizes career success with a robust career counseling system, as Marta states, “Our Employability Advisors work closely with students from the day they arrive on campus to well beyond their graduation.” This comprehensive system encompasses personal assessments, mentoring, internships, and job placement services. The focus is on providing guidance and support to students ensuring they are well-equipped to achieve their career goals.

Extensive partnerships with industry leaders, multinational companies and start-ups open doors to numerous opportunities for students. At Schiller, the commitment to shaping successful career paths is a service as well as a personalized journey from day one to post-graduation ensuring every student is prepared for the dynamic professional landscape.

Empowering Futures

“At Schiller, we track student outcomes through a mix of qualitative and quantitative measures,” says Marta. These include graduation rates, employment data and feedback from employers. Such data is pivotal for the continuous refinement of educational offerings and support services ensuring the highest levels of student success. This commitment to monitoring outcomes reflects the university’s dedication to providing an education that not only empowers students during their time at Schiller but also propels them toward successful and fulfilling careers beyond graduation.

Tech Savvy Teaching

“At Schiller, we prioritize continuous learning for both faculty and students,” says Marta. Professional development opportunities abound for its faculty and staff covering a spectrum from cybersecurity threats to effective communication and diversity and inclusion workshops. Marta highlights, “We encourage our students to engage in continuous learning through workshops, talks, seminars, and online courses.” This comprehensive training program addresses identified needs ensuring the community stays current in a rapidly evolving world.

Furthermore, digital educational methodology necessitates ongoing training for faculty. Marta emphasizes, “Our faculty is continuously updated on using technology in the classroom.” It reflects the commitment to staying at the forefront of educational practices. At Schiller, the belief that education is a lifelong journey is not just a principle—it’s a value instilled in every member of our dynamic and forward-thinking community.

Innovation and Leadership

In its 60^th anniversary and looking forward, Marta envisions Schiller International University as a global education leader renowned for its innovative learning models and dedication to shaping committed global citizens and future-ready international leaders. This vision propels it towards expanding global partnerships, extending reach and persistently enhancing academic programs. The commitment is to empower individuals who are not only well-versed in their fields but are equipped to lead on the international stage, contributing meaningfully to a rapidly evolving global landscape.

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