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SDG 09: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

2023/2024

Infrastructure Investments


Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine (TRIPM)


The Thumbay Research Institute for Precision Medicine (TRIPM) exemplifies GMU’s commitment to transforming healthcare through innovation, particularly in cancer and diabetes research. As part of the drive toward resilient healthcare infrastructure, TRIPM leverages state-of-the-art technology to advance personalized medicine. A key infrastructure investment is the Zebrafish Facility for Cancer Research, which plays a pivotal role in improving diagnostics and treatments. This facility not only enhances GMU’s research capabilities but also contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 9 by fostering collaboration among scientists, clinicians, and faculty. The work done at TRIPM demonstrates how targeted infrastructure investments can support long-term sustainable development in healthcare (Link).


Thumbay Institute for AI in Healthcare (TIAIH) 


GMU continues to push the boundaries of healthcare innovation through the Thumbay Institute for AI in Healthcare (TIAIH). Recognizing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, TIAIH is dedicated to bridging the AI skill gap in the healthcare sector, empowering professionals to deliver patient care that is both efficient and cost-effective. By incorporating AI-driven technology into educational programs, the institute fosters innovation and enhances the infrastructure needed for a more adaptive and future-ready healthcare system. This aligns with SDG 9 by driving sustainable industrialization in healthcare through cutting-edge education and workforce development.

GMU’s QA&IE Portal 


The Quality Assurance and Institutional Effectiveness (QA&IE) portal is a crucial element of GMU’s operational infrastructure. This platform optimizes data management and streamlines assessment and evaluation processes across the university, driving continuous improvement in academic and operational activities. The QA&IE portal exemplifies how digital innovation can improve institutional efficiency, directly contributing to SDG 9 by building robust digital infrastructure that supports sustainable growth in both education and healthcare sectors. (Link)


Educational Initiatives


GMU’s Future Scientist Program


Since 2018, GMU’s “Future Scientists of the UAE” program has been nurturing the next generation of biomedical researchers. Partnering with GEMS International Schools, the program immerses high school students in cutting-edge research, particularly in fields like drug discovery and development. In 2023, participants gained hands-on experience in key areas such as computer-aided drug discovery and designing anti-cancer compounds. This initiative reflects GMU’s commitment to fostering young talent and inspiring careers in science, directly contributing to the development of a skilled workforce, which is central to SDG 9’s focus on innovation and infrastructure (Link)


AI-Based Virtual Patient Learning (VPL) and 3D Digital Learning


GMU has pioneered the integration of AI-based technology into medical education through its Virtual Patient Learning (VPL) platform. This platform enables students to interact with AI-driven virtual patients, enhancing their clinical reasoning and decision-making skills through immersive learning scenarios. Additionally, GMU’s introduction of 3D Digital Learning offers students high-definition visuals and virtual microscopy to deepen their understanding of complex subjects like anatomy and pathology. These initiatives reflect GMU’s leadership in modernizing medical education, equipping students with advanced skills that align with the evolving demands of the healthcare industry. By embedding AI and digital technology in its curriculum, GMU supports the development of resilient, innovative educational infrastructure, as emphasized in SDG 9 (Link).


Center for Advanced Simulation in Healthcare (CASH)


The Center for Advanced Simulation in Healthcare (CASH) further enhances GMU’s commitment to hands-on, technology-driven medical education. Students are able to train in simulated hospital environments, mastering clinical and communication skills in a controlled, high-tech setting. This investment in simulation infrastructure promotes innovation in medical training, preparing students for real-world challenges and contributing to the development of a skilled, resilient healthcare workforce.


Community Engagement and Outreach


Global Health Initiatives: Organ Donation Awareness Program


On January 31, 2024, GMU’s BSN Year 3 students and faculty participated in a historic organ donation awareness event at MBRU University, Dubai, setting a new Guinness World Record for the largest number of pledges to donate organs. This event, part of the HAYAT program, highlights GMU’s active role in promoting global health and awareness initiatives. By encouraging individuals to register as organ donors, GMU contributes to building a compassionate healthcare infrastructure that saves lives and supports sustainable development in line with SDG 9 (Link).

 


Cultural Celebrations and Inclusivity Efforts


GMU actively fosters social cohesion and cultural inclusivity through its participation in national celebrations like UAE National Day (Link) and Saudi National Day (Link). These events bring together students, faculty, and staff, promoting unity and shared values. Cultural celebrations are an integral part of GMU’s community outreach, enhancing the social fabric necessary for sustainable development. By engaging in such inclusive activities, GMU supports SDG 9’s goals of promoting resilient communities and fostering innovation through diversity.

 


Environmental Awareness and Sustainability Initiatives


The university’s Environment Club organizes events like the “Come to Say Hello and Get Yourself a Plant” campaign, promoting sustainability and responsible resource management among the GMU community. These efforts align with SDG 9 by encouraging environmental awareness and contributing to the development of sustainable infrastructure, both within the university and beyond. GMU’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond healthcare and education, reinforcing the importance of innovation in environmental management (Link).

Other examples:

  • (Link) On June 11, 2024, a faculty development workshop led by Mr. Suraj K. Sebastian, E-learning Manager and IT Lecturer, focused on integrating AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, and Perplexity into course planning and reporting. The workshop aimed to enhance educational processes by demonstrating how these AI tools can generate course content, draft reports, and provide personalized feedback. Participants explored the practical benefits of AI, such as increased efficiency and personalized learning, while discussing challenges like data privacy and the need for ongoing AI training. The session also emphasized the importance of effective "role prompting" to optimize AI outputs, ultimately showcasing AI's transformative potential in education.


  • (Link) Thumbay College of Management and AI in Healthcare at Gulf Medical University (GMU) has strengthened its commitment to industry-academic collaboration by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Knight Frank Middle East Limited (Dubai Branch), a global consultancy firm. The MOU aims to provide Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Management and Economics (BSc.HME) students with internship and job opportunities, offering practical experience in healthcare management. The agreement, signed by Dr. Moon Moon Haque, Dean of the College, and Mr. James Lewis, Managing Director of Knight Frank, seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry, preparing students for real-world challenges in healthcare.


  • On February 26, 2024, a professional development session for 25 nurses at Thumbay University Hospital in Ajman focused on the significance of emotional intelligence, resilience, and subjective happiness in personal and professional growth. The workshop covered key components of emotional intelligence, such as self-awareness and relationship management, and emphasized resilience as the ability to adapt to challenges. The concept of subjective happiness was discussed in terms of life satisfaction and overall well-being. The session was interactive and well-received by participants, providing valuable insights into emotional and mental well-being in healthcare (Link).


  • On June 8-9, 2024, faculty and physiotherapy students from Gulf Medical University’s College of Health Sciences participated in the Special Olympics UAE Games, providing health screenings for athletes. Faculty members led programs like FunFeet, Healthy Hearing, and Opening Eyes, while physiotherapy students assisted in FitFeet screenings, gaining hands-on experience in assessing foot biomechanics and working with people of determination. Students expressed gratitude for the opportunity, noting the personal growth and skills they developed while working with athletes. The event underscored the importance of empathy, resilience, and professional development in healthcare (Link).


  • On May 5, 2024, physiotherapy students from Gulf Medical University participated in the Desert Run X-C event at Meliá Desert Palm Hotel in Dubai, offering warm-up, cool-down, and rehabilitation services to athletes. This practical experience allowed students to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and collaboration in healthcare. The event, coordinated by Dr. Waqar M. Naqvi and Dr. Ramprasad M., highlighted GMU’s commitment to promoting health and fitness through community engagement, providing students with valuable learning experiences in sports physiotherapy (Link).

 

GMU’s contributions to SDG 9, through its infrastructure investments, educational innovations, and community engagement initiatives, underscore the university’s commitment to fostering sustainable development in healthcare and education. By integrating cutting-edge technology, promoting research, and building resilient infrastructure, GMU is not only advancing industry and innovation but also preparing the next generation of leaders to face the challenges of tomorrow.



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