AUS AI Week 2026 explores the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning

American University of Sharjah (AUS) recently hosted AI Week 2026, a four-day program organized by its Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning (CITL), examining how educators can harness AI to enhance teaching and learning, while remaining grounded in academic integrity, ethical responsibility and human-centered education.

Held from January 26 to 29, AI Week brought together faculty, students, librarians and industry professionals to explore the pedagogical, institutional and societal implications of AI across disciplines. The program aligned with national priorities outlined in the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031 and built on AUS’ broader commitment to provide its students with a cutting-edge education.

Across a series of talks, panels and workshops, AI Week addressed key themes including AI-supported teaching and assessment, the use of AI to enhance productivity in research and scholarly workflows, AI literacy across the curriculum and the responsible use of generative technologies. The program incorporated industry perspectives from Al-Futtaim, G42, Microsoft and KPMG, alongside academic voices from across the university, as well as insights from Dr. Svetlana Chigaeva-Heddad, Strategic Programs and Engagement Lead at the AI Education Forum, an initiative dedicated to advancing artificial intelligence in education across the MENA region.

“AI Week reflects our commitment to helping the AUS community engage with artificial intelligence in thoughtful, responsible and pedagogically meaningful ways,” said Dr. Norita Ahmad, Director of the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning. “By bringing together faculty, students, industry partners and external experts, we aimed to explore how AI can enhance learning and academic practice while remaining firmly grounded in ethical awareness and human values.”

AI Week concluded on January 29 with a faculty-focused program examining AI in teaching and learning across disciplines. A panel titled “AI in Action: Practical Applications in the Classroom” showcased how AUS faculty are integrating AI into lesson design, assessment and feedback, with contributions from faculty from all four of AUS’ colleges and schools.

Through initiatives led by CITL, including the AI Hub launched in 2024, AUS continues to support responsible, innovative and student-centered approaches to teaching and learning using AI, positioning the university at the forefront of global discussions on the effective use of AI in higher education.

For more information about the Center for Innovation in Teaching and Learning, visit www.aus.edu/citl.