Dr. Shifan Khanday, Acting Associate Dean of Research and Head of AI and Smart Education Unit s at Dubai Medical University, represented the MENA region at “The Power of Collaboration: Dialogue with Senior Academic Leaders”, hosted by Harvard Business School Online in partnership with Yangpoo University Partners. The prestigious event, held at Le Méridien Dubai, brought together distinguished academic and corporate leaders to explore innovative models of collaboration shaping the future of global higher education.

The forum emphasized cross-border partnerships, digital transformation in learning, and the evolving role of leadership in academic innovation. Dr. Khanday’s participation reflected her ongoing contributions to advancing AI integration and smart education initiatives in the UAE, aligning with Dubai Medical University’s vision to pioneer technology-driven education in healthcare.

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Dr. Khanday highlighted the importance of collaborative ecosystems between academia and industry, noting that “strategic partnerships like these redefine educational impact—transforming classrooms into innovation hubs that empower global learners.”

Dr. Khanday was also felicitated during the event for her leadership in fostering academic innovation and for representing the region in thought leadership dialogues connecting Harvard Business School Online’s global education mission with transformative educational practices in the MENA region