DIAC honours outgoing President of University of Wollongong in Dubai

Press release

Published July 24th, 2011 - 12:47 GMT

Raymi Vanderspek, Executive Director, Strategic Development and Administration, University of Wollongong; Professor Rob Whelan, President, University of Wollongong; Amina Al Rustamani, CEO, TECOM Business Parks; and Dr. Ayoub Kazim, Managing Director, TECOM Investments’ Education Cluster

Dubai International Academic City (DIAC), the region’s leading destination for higher education and a member of TECOM Investments’ Education Cluster, honoured Professor Rob Whelan at the end of his three-year term as President of the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD).

Dr. Amina Al Rustamani, CEO, TECOM Business Parks, in the presence of Dr. Ayoub Kazim, Managing Director, TECOM Investments’ Education Cluster, presented Professor Whelan with a golden dhow as a token of appreciation for his noteworthy contributions to the university.

Backed by a deep understanding of the education sector, Professor Whelan brought about significant reforms within the university, moulding it into a coveted institution for higher education. During his term as President, Whelan tailored various courses to deliver shorter training modules to meet the demands of the students and diverse sectors in the region.

Professor Whelan also developed UOWD’s doctoral programmes in Business and Administration. His relentless efforts established the university as one of the leading international centres for research in ecology and genetics of endangered plant and animal species.

The university will announce a successor to Professor Whelan shortly.

Background Information

Dubai International Academic City

The world’s largest free zone dedicated to higher education and the pursuit of intellectual growth.

Dubai International Academic City (DIAC) was launched in April 2007 to cater to the needs of the region’s growing and diverse academic community. Home to numerous regional and international colleges and universities, it serves over 27,000 students from all around the world. With more than 500 undergraduate and post-graduate programmes currently offered to students, DIAC continues to expand and grow as per the needs of its robust and talented academic community.

Company Profile

TECOM Investments

TECOM Group, (formerly known as TECOM Investments) a member of Dubai Holding, is a strategic business enabler that contributes to the realisation of Dubai’s economic aspirations, through the creation of sector-focused business communities and work environments that provide innovative ecosystems.

TECOM Group’s Business Communities reinforce Dubai’s position as a global hub for business and commerce. Covering six vibrant industry sectors, we offer a home in the region to 5,600 companies ranging from start-ups to multinational corporations with a total workforce of 90,000.

Company Profile

University of Wollongong in Dubai

The University of Wollongong in Dubai is Dubai's oldest private, most prestigious and accredited University. Established in 1993 by the University of Wollongong (UOW) Australia, UOWD has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence, graduate employability and an unparalleled student experience. With more than 3,600 students and a graduate network of more than 10,500 alumni, UOWD has built a reputation for quality integrity, research and innovation. It is held in high regards by its students, alumni and the business, government and community sectors. It offers 40 different degree programs, specialising in Business, Finance, Information Sciences, Engineering, Humanities, Social Sciences and Health.