Toshiba Computer Systems has announced an AED 20 million deal to provide UAE Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) with tablet PCs for faculty and student use. The agreement will extend to 12 HCT campuses including Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah.
The deal follows extensive trials of Toshiba notebook technology with HCT as part of a wider Memorandum of Understanding, signed by HCT, Toshiba and Al Futtaim at GITEX in 2005. The MoU committed both parties to enhance the learning environment using leading edge mobile computing technologies; to explore and identify opportunities for student internship programs and to identify and recognize the innovative use of tablet PCs in the learning environment.
Dr. Tayeb Kamali, Chancellor of HCT, comments: “Technology is constantly changing and adapting the way people interact, learn and do business. The HCT was the first in the region to adopt tablet PCs – this fit within our education model based on allowing students to follow the latest enhancements in technology and actively using it for their learning process.
“It is hoped that through HCT’s association with Toshiba and Al Futtaim, we will be able to promote the effective use of information technology and mobility in the region to make learning and business faster and more efficient.”
Toshiba will work with its UAE distribution network partner, Al-Futtaim Technologies for logistics supply and service support to HCT. Vishesh Bhatia, Group Director, Electronics at Al Futtaim said: “The deal marks the culmination of a testing and proof-of-concept programme that we set up with the colleges and confirmed over time the quality and reliability of Toshiba tablet PCs in educational environments.”
Ahmed Khalil, General Manager, Toshiba Computer Systems Division, Middle East and Africa, welcomes the HCT’s forward looking attitude and comments: “Technology is pervasive in commerce and today’s students are tomorrow’s entrepreneurs and business leaders.
“The innovative steps HCT is taking to embrace technology and enhance the learning environment for students, has allowed Toshiba to demonstrate its leading edge capabilities in tablet PC technology and Al Futtaim its outstanding customer service.”
Al-Futtaim Technologies will ensure that all HCT faculty and staff receive the appropriate training on how to use the tablet PCs, and will also provide optimal after-sales service.
