Abu Dhabi (UAE), May 2010 - Experts in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are discussing ways to develop eLearning techniques and communications technology in the entire Gulf region. The UAE's Advanced Network for Research and Education (ANKABUT - "Ankabut" is the Arabic word for "spider") encourages technology professionals to promote innovation and collaboration in the region through eLearning methods, and experts from IBM and Microsoft have been asked to provide insight from an industrial point of view.
The ANKABUT network connects universities, colleges, schools, and other research institutions across the UAE, as well as their international counterparts. It also promotes research and the exchange of information through access to databases, electronic libraries, and supercomputers. The organization uses rich multimedia content and offers high-definition video conferencing.
The range of activities facilitated by ANAKBUT allows individuals and organizations to push back the traditional boundaries of teaching, learning, and research methods. The Network helps educational institutions advance their IT infrastructure and supports changing client needs through the delivery of existing and new value-added services to staff, students, and researchers.
ANKABUT will further strengthen ties with the wider education sector, while enhancing core services for the higher-education sector and securing ongoing funding and resources to achieve Network objectives.
