About the UA Plus Program
Believing that education extends beyond the classroom, the UA Plus Program offers extracurricular sessions based on the UA Wellness Wheel, encompassing physical, academic, emotional, spiritual, environmental, financial, occupational, and social dimensions. These sessions promote cross-faculty interaction, creating a diverse learning environment where students can connect with peers from different fields and explore topics beyond their major, enriching their overall academic experience. The primary goal is to enhance fundamental concepts related to mental health, well-being, and personal development.
Alignment with Sustainable Development Goals
The UA Plus Program aligns with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015. These goals call for global action to address key challenges, such as protecting the environment and ensuring peace and prosperity by 2030. Goals like Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3), Quality Education (SDG 4), and Climate Action (SDG 13) are particularly relevant. For instance, improved education can drive economic growth and enhance health outcomes, while efforts in climate action contribute to a sustainable future. The UA Plus Program supports these objectives by fostering holistic development and addressing multiple dimensions of personal and community growth (United Nations Development Programme, 2015).
Embracing AI in Education
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing education by providing personalized learning experiences and real-time support through tools like virtual tutors. While AI offers opportunities for enhanced engagement and independent learning, it also presents challenges such as data privacy, technology dependence, and the uncertainty of future developments (eSchool News, 2024). Therefore, as AI continues to evolve, it is crucial for students to stay informed and utilize AI in ethical and responsible ways. At our University, some of the targeted topics in the UA Plus Program sessions will equip students with essential tools and insights into AI, helping them navigate its challenges and adapt to rapid advancements.
Skill Development and Graduation Requirements
In today’s fast-paced world, students must constantly broaden their skills to excel on both personal and professional levels. Participation in the UA Plus Program sessions will be highlighted on diploma supplements and through e-certificates, which can be included on students’ CVs, showcasing a broader skill set.
Starting in the 2024–25 academic year, first-year UA students will be required to attend at least four sessions per year to graduate. All sessions are free of charge, and any session aligning with the program’s dimensions, delivered by any administrative or academic unit, will be included.
Additionally, students must complete 50 hours of volunteering to meet graduation requirements.
The Importance of Volunteering
In 2010, a group of researchers found that volunteering is invaluable for students as it fosters civic engagement and teaches essential behaviors. Many students are motivated to volunteer by the opportunity to gain work-related experience and develop qualifications that can enhance their careers and education (Smith et al., 2010). In addition, Bhardwa stresses that volunteering offers numerous benefits, such as improved time management, the satisfaction of helping others, and the chance to meet new people (2010).
Through volunteering, students gain insights into the working world, acquire personal and professional abilities, learn how to work in a team, enhance their communication skills, and build up their confidence.
Overall, volunteering benefits students on three levels: career development, personal values, and social connections.
Target Audience
This program is designed for active UA students, with opportunities for alumni to participate in sessions.
Speakers
Each session will be led by experts and professionals in their respective fields, ensuring high-quality information and guidance.
Session Duration
Sessions vary in length based on content and format, ranging from one to two hours, half a day, or one to two days.
Diploma Supplement Visibility
Participation in sessions, activities, and volunteering will be noted on diploma supplements issued upon graduation and updated in the Student Information System (SIS) after each attendance.
References
A Cnaan, R., Handy, F., Haski-Leventhal, D., Holmes, K., L Brudney, J., & Smith, K. (2010). Motivations and Benefits of Student Volunteering: Comparing Regular, Occasional, and Non-Volunteers in Five Countries. Canadian journal of nonprofit and social economy research, 1(1), 65–81. https://doi.org/10.22230/cjnser.2010v1n1a2
Bhardwa, S. (2018, February 19). What are the benefits of student volunteering? Times Higher Education. https://www.timeshighereducation.com/student/news/what-are-benefits-student-volunteering
United Nations Development Programme (2015). What are the Sustainable Development Goals? UNDP. https://www.undp.org/sustainable-development-goals
What is the Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Students? (2024, February 5). eSchool News. https://www.eschoolnews.com/digital-learning/2024/02/05/what-is-the-impact-of-artificial-intelligence-on-students/