Ajman (Press Release): In a remarkable accomplishment, Gulf Medical University (GMU) has been honored at the Times Higher Education (THE) Awards MENA 2023, earning acclaim in the category of "Outstanding Support for Students." The projects submitted for consideration were developed internally by the University Quality Assurance and Institutional Effectiveness Unit, in collaboration with the entire GMU community and under the guidance of university leadership.

The initiative titled "Empowering Student Success: A Holistic Approach to Mentorship and E-Portfolio Support" highlights the university's commitment to nurturing a supportive and nurturing learning environment. Through this initiative, Gulf Medical University has implemented a comprehensive approach to mentorship, offering personalized guidance to students to facilitate their academic and professional growth. Moreover, the university's innovative ‘e-portfolio support system’ enables students to curate and exhibit their academic accomplishments, extracurricular activities, and professional development, instilling a sense of ownership over their educational journey and future career prospects.

Speaking about the recognition, Prof. Hossam Hamdy, the Chancellor of Gulf Medical University, said, "Our achievements at the Times Higher Education MENA Awards are truly an honor. It reflects the dedication and hard work of our faculty, staff, and students, as well as the continuous support from Dr. Thumbay Moideen, the founder and president of the Thumbay Group. Recognizing this significant milestone in Gulf Medical University's 25th-year history, we are inspired to keep up with innovation, expansion, and continuous improvement."

In addition, Professor Sherief Khalifa, Vice Chancellor for Quality & Institutional Effectiveness and Dean, College of Pharmacy at Gulf Medical University, emphasized, “The recognition for Gulf Medical University in the Times Higher Education rankings for providing exceptional student support is remarkable. Our commitment to offering a supportive learning environment is demonstrated by our initiative, "Empowering Student Success: A Holistic Approach to Mentorship and E-Portfolio Support." Through personalized mentorship and our pioneering e- portfolio system, we empower students to excel academically and professionally, instilling a sense of ownership over their educational journey. This award inspires us to continue innovating and ensuring the holistic development of every student at Gulf Medical University."

Similarly, Prof. Manda Venkatraman, Vice Chancellor Academics and Dean of Gulf Medical University's College of Medicine, expressed, "Gulf Medical University's recognition in the 'Outstanding Support for Students' category signifies our commitment to maintaining academic excellence, high-quality education, and noteworthy contributions to healthcare research and innovation. Being an essential component of a renowned academic institution in these subjects is something we are proud of.”

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London, Nov 22: A bomb disposal squad deployed as a “precaution” to the South Terminal of Gatwick Airport concluded an investigation into a "security incident" on Friday after making a “suspect package” safe.

The South Terminal of Gatwick Airport, the UK's second busiest airport after Heathrow, which was briefly shut owing to the incident reopened following the incident.

The Gatwick is around 45 km south of London.

Two people detained during the enquiries have since been allowed to continue their journey as the airport was opened.

“Police have concluded their investigation into a report of a suspect package at Gatwick Airport. Officers from the EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team made the package safe, and the airport has been handed back to its operator,” Sussex Police said in an updated statement.

“Two people detained while enquiries were ongoing have subsequently been allowed to continue their journeys. There will remain an increased police presence in the area to assist with passengers accessing the South Terminal for onward travel,” the statement added.

Earlier on Friday, the incident caused severe disruption at the busy airport’s South Terminal, while the North Terminal of Gatwick Airport remained unaffected.

“Police were called to the South Terminal at Gatwick Airport at 8.20 am on Friday (November 22) following the discovery of a suspected prohibited item in luggage,” a Sussex Police statement said.

“To ensure the safety of the public, staff and other airport users, a security cordon has been put in place whilst the matter is dealt with. As a precaution, an EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal) team is being deployed to the airport. This is causing significant disruption and some roads around the South Terminal have been closed. We’d advise the public to avoid the area where possible,” it said.

Footage on social media taken outside the airport showed crowds of frustrated travellers being moved away from the terminal building.

Gatwick said it was working hard to resolve the issue.

“A large part of the South Terminal has been evacuated as a precaution while we continue to investigate a security incident," the airport said in a social media post.

“Passengers will not be able to enter the South Terminal while this is ongoing. The safety and security of our passengers and staff remain our top priority. We are working hard to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.”

Train and bus services that serve the airport were also impacted while the police carried out their inquiries.

In an unrelated incident in south London on Friday morning, the US Embassy area in Nine Elms by the River Thames was the scene of a controlled explosion by Scotland Yard dealing with what they believe may have been a “hoax device”.

“We can confirm the 'loud bang' reported in the area a short time ago was a controlled explosion carried out by officers,” the Metropolitan Police said in a post on X.

“Initial indications are that the item was a hoax device. An investigation will now follow. Some cordons will remain in place for the time being but the majority of the police response will now be stood down,” it added.