AUBH sets campus re-opening strategy

TDT | Manama

American University of Bahrain (AUBH) announced yesterday its strategy for its campus re-opening, in compliance with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health, Higher Education Council (HEC), and National Taskforce for Combatting the Coronavirus (COVID-19). AUBH has been working diligently on its return to campus on September 13, in line with its “Culture of Care” philosophy, and has been exploring ways to support and protect the AUBH community.

The AUBH staff, and the National Health Regulatory Authority (NHRA)-accredited, on-campus clinic, in partnership with Bahrain Specialist Hospital (BSH), have prepared a containment strategy for anyone showing symptoms of COVID-19, with dedicated isolation rooms. Furthermore, the university has partnered with Le Meridien Hotel City Centre to provide isolation facilities for new faculty and incoming students.

The re-opening strategy aims to create a safe learning environment, with the use of temperature checks, increased sanitation, and masks worn at all times. Innovative procedures such as dual-modality learning have been implemented, which allow for normally scheduled classes on campus, and online synchronous participation for those unable to attend, or who prefer to study at a distance, through the use of an in-classroom camera system.

The 75,000sqm campus ensures effective social distancing practices with adapted classroom seating, and reduced number of students per classroom. Simulation software has been added to laboratories to complement traditional classes. A full protection strategy is also detailed for all employees and visitors to campus.

AUBH’s founding president Dr Susan E Saxton commented: “Our first priority is everyone’s well-being. I’m pleased that AUBH has been able to emphasise its ‘Culture of Care’ philosophy, and demonstrate global best practices in remote teaching and learning. Having said that, we can’t wait to welcome everyone back in September.”

Throughout the pandemic, AUBH has ensured the continuation of virtual learning with examinations administered through ProctorU, a US-based, AI-enabled, secure assessment platform, which protects the integrity and credibility of highstakes exams. The admission process is proceeding for the 2020-2021 academic year.

Measures are in place to assist GCC students who have decided not to return to their international studies, with their seat reservation fee waived. The dedicated admissions team is assisting students with applications by substituting exam requirements where students were not able to complete them abroad. For more information on the university and the re-opening strategy, visit aubh.edu.bh.