Blackboard has entered an agreement with the UAE’s largest education institute, the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), to bring forth the first-ever Blackboard Center of Excellence in the Middle East. The new development fits in Blackboard’s broader objective of teaming up with the global education community to pave the way for faster learning experiences and institutional success using breakthrough technologies. The agreement was signed in the presence of Blackboard CEO and President Bill Ballhaus and HCT Vice Chancellor Dr. Abdullatif Al Shamsi. Per the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two entities will combine their resources to set up a dedicated facility where teachers can update their knowledge and skills in edtech solutions.

The ultimate objective of this Center of Excellence is to raise a team of professionals who could lead from the front in the field of digital education in the foreseeable future. The new program will utilize Blackboard’s "e-Teacher" certification courses to educate teachers on the fundamentals of digital learning and teaching. Alongside, they will also receive extensive training on how to create quality online courses and successfully implement a digital platform.

“This agreement with Blackboard is an important milestone,” said Dr. Abdullatif Al Shamsi, Vice Chancellor of HCT, adding, “Our organizations have been working closely for many years, and this MOU will further strengthen our partnership and empower our educators and staff with the necessary knowledge and tools they need to be successful today and tomorrow. Eventually, this will also benefit our students, equipping them with much-required skills.”