The Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai recently convened a landmark gathering of education leaders from India, China, and other regions at its Innovation Center. The event, Educreator, focused on the future of experiential learning as a bridge between high school and university, drawing international educators and thought leaders to discuss how experiential learning can foster essential skills in critical thinking, adaptability, and creativity among students.

The two-day forum showcased Dubai's growing influence as a global educational hub and underscored RIT Dubai's commitment to advancing innovative learning practices. Kathleen Davis, Vice President for Enrollment Management and Associate Provost at RIT Rochester, opened the event by highlighting the importance of 'learning by doing'. She emphasized how experiential learning equips students for the challenges of a connected and collaborative world, urging attendees to champion international partnerships and diversity in education.

Sundar Kumarasamy, Founder and CEO of Excelerate, a pioneering global experiential learning platform, delivered the keynote address. Excelerate connects learners and organizations across 180 countries to promote hands-on learning experiences that foster personal growth and innovation. Kumarasamy emphasized the importance of staying ahead of rapid global changes and adapting to new educational models. By sharing industry examples, he illustrated how major brands have faltered by ignoring transformational trends and discussed how experiential learning prepares students to drive innovation in their future careers.

Following the keynote, a panel discussion featured insights from representatives of educational institutions in India and China, who highlighted various experiential learning strategies. These leaders shared examples of interdisciplinary and creative approaches to learning that extend beyond traditional classroom lessons, adapting instruction to suit diverse learning styles. The discussion underscored the role of customized pathways in ensuring students achieve their academic and personal goals through hands-on learning experiences.

A central feature of the event was a showcase of RIT’s Tiger Stripes program, recently adapted in collaboration with Excelerate to introduce experiential learning opportunities to students early on. Kumarasamy explained that the program is designed to offer young learners a safe, pressure-free space to explore their interests, test different ideas, and achieve personal milestones without fear of failure. He noted that Tiger Stripes aims to encourage students to reflect on their skills and aspirations, guiding them toward future career success.

Reflecting on the significance of the Educreator forum, Davis remarked, “Educreator is a ground-breaking global platform where leaders in secondary and higher education come together to share ideas and challenge traditional learning models. This year’s event is a milestone for RIT, as we launch our first global symposium in Dubai. It provides an unparalleled opportunity to collectively reimagine how experiential learning can shape the future of education, ensuring that students are prepared for the demands of tomorrow”.

This event marked the first time Educreator has taken place at RIT Dubai, underscoring Dubai’s emergence as a nexus for educational innovation. Saleh Yammout, Vice President for Finance and Administration at RIT Dubai, emphasized the institution’s role in promoting experiential learning through its co-op programs, research partnerships, and corporate collaborations. “RIT has long been a leader in experiential learning, and we are committed to expanding this approach to prepare students for successful transitions to university and professional life,” he stated. “This forum is an essential platform for attracting international students to Dubai, reinforcing the city’s position as a global leader in education and entrepreneurship”.

Yammout added that Dubai’s strategic location and supportive infrastructure make it an ideal host for such forums, further enhancing its reputation as an international hub for both education and industry. By fostering collaboration among educators worldwide, RIT Dubai aims to create a lasting impact on the global education landscape, bridging the gap between high school and university and preparing students for the future’s dynamic challenges and opportunities.