Sorbonne University’s remote work goes on

In line with the government’s instructions and procedures to limit the spread of the emerging Corona virus (Covid-19). Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi announces its success in activating the remote work system. Professor Silvia Serrano, Vice Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, highlighted the importance of maintaining the employee’s safety by providing them with all the technological means to help them work from home effectively. “Our goal is to maintain a safe environment for our employees amidst this challenging time and provide them with all the necessary tools that ensure the same level of productivity and motivational level enhancements.”

Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi provided the electronic channels and platforms to ensure efficiency and the work continuity. The Digital Transformation & Innovation Department established many training simulations for the employees and departments’ training sessions. The university also held a test on Thursday 19th of March, to ensure that it is fully prepared to begin the remote work process. Following the test, the employees filled in a survey that aims to collect their feedback and understand the challenges and difficulties they might have faced during the test.

Shuaa Alassar, Head of Human Resources Department said, “Ensuring the safety of our employees and community as well as sustaining the business are core values that the HR adheres to under any circumstances. Since the emergence of COVID-19, we started to approach all our employees to understand their needs for efficient remote operations and begun collaborating closely with the Management and the Digital Transformation & Innovation Department. To facilitate working remotely, we coordinated with the authorities and shared with our employees the best practices and guidelines to apply. Since 24th of March, the majority of our employees has been working remotely and has clearly demonstrated the meaning of turning challenges into opportunities.”

It is significant to recognise that the challenge in providing outstanding technical support was not only limited to the employees residing in the United Arab Emirates but also extended to the visiting professors residing in France and helping them start their online lessons successfully. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi has dedicated a technical support team ready to help the professors during the online classes and has also taken several preventive infrastructure measures to prepare for any difficulties arising from the increased pressure and burden on the network.