UOWD Staff Awards 2024: A Celebration of Vision, Dedication, and Breakthrough Achievements

Friday, 24 January, 2025

The University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD) recently hosted its annual Staff Awards, marking a momentous occasion that spotlighted the passion, perseverance, and innovative spirit of the institution’s outstanding faculty and staff. This year’s ceremony was nothing short of inspirational, featuring new heights of excellence, fresh perspectives on collaboration, and a continued emphasis on our shared values.

From championing innovative teaching methods to pushing the boundaries of impactful research, the awards recognized the remarkable efforts that drive UOWD’s reputation for academic distinction and community engagement. Below are the proud recipients who exemplify our commitment to transform lives and shape the future of education.

Staff Values Awards

• Passion
  Award Winner: Sherwin Fernandes
  Recognized for consistently bringing energy and excitement to every project, inspiring those around him to strive for excellence.
   
• Courage
  Award Winner: Tamika Zilm
  Honored for fearless decision-making and resilience, even in the face of challenging circumstances.
  Highly Commended: Khaled Eid
  Applauded for tackling obstacles head-on and encouraging others to do the same.
   
• Collaboration
  Award Winner: Careers and Alumni Team
  Celebrated for fostering teamwork and partnership, creating a nurturing environment for students and alumni.
   
• Excellence
  Award Winner: Student Life and Events Team
  Recognized for pushing boundaries and setting the standard for quality, innovation, and student engagement.
   
• Innovation
  Award Winner: Finance Team
  Praised for applying creative thinking and revolutionary processes to streamline operations and boost efficiency.
   
• Integrity
  Award Winner: Dr Khalil Yousef
  Commended for unwavering commitment to honesty, ethical practices, and upholding the university’s core values.
   
• Employee of the Year
  Award Winner: Dr Anjli Narwani
  Honored for exceptional leadership, impactful contributions, and an extraordinary dedication to UOWD’s mission.

Research Excellence Awards

• UOWD High Potential Researcher Award
  Award Winners: Dr Muhabie Mengistu and Dr Sourjo Mukherjee
  Highly Commended: Mohamad Alrifai
   
• UOWD Industry Collaborations and Practice Impact Award
  Award Winner: Dr Mohamad Nassereddine
  Celebrated for forging key industry partnerships that bridge academic theory with practical, real-world applications.
   
• UOWD Research Excellence & Scholarly Impact Award
  Award Winner: Dr Munyaradzi Nyadzayo
  Highly Commended: Dr Manoj Kumar
  Both are recognized for exemplary scholarly work and substantial contributions that advance knowledge and elevate UOWD’s research profile.

Teaching Excellence Award

• UOWD Innovation in Teaching Award
  Award Winner: Dr Rumaila Abbas
  Highly Commended: Dr Prithvi Bhattacharya, Dr Stephen Wilkinson and Dr Ruwan Bandara
  Lauded for pioneering cutting-edge instructional strategies that enhance student learning and engagement.

Pushing Boundaries and Setting New Benchmarks
The 2024 Staff Awards were a testament to the exceptional dedication and talent that sustain UOWD as a vibrant institution for learning, research, and community outreach. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the winners and nominees for their unyielding pursuit of excellence and their vital contributions to making UOWD a leading center of academic and professional achievement.