Thompson Rivers University instructors will deliver English as a Second Language (ESL) courses for Institute of Applied Technology (IAT) at Khalifa University, in Abu Dhabi.

TRU World has been in discussions with the IAT for close to a year looking at various training opportunities. “There is every indication that this will become a long term program with IAT and open up a number of other training opportunities in the region,” said Cyndi McLeod, Associate Vice-president TRU World.

The TRU team will be among the first to teach a co-ed classroom, so cultural learning and sensitivity will be especially appropriate. During their 10-month term in Abu Dhabi, the ESL instructors will also assist in the modification of the IAT ESL curriculum.

This session in Abu Dhabi will be the third time David Chan has delivered ESL courses for TRU World. He earned his bachelor of science degree and Teaching English as a Second Language certificate at TRU.

“I’ve always wanted to go to Dubai because I’ve heard and read so much about the city’s modern beauty. Having driven through the city a few days ago, I must say that the development is astounding and the architecture absolutely lives up to its reputation,” Chan said in an email interview from Dubai.

“As well, Middle Eastern culture is becoming an item of importance more and more in the world stage,” Chan said, adding that his impression of the UAE is that it seems to be where “Middle East meets West” in perfect harmony. “The opportunity to experience a drastically different culture from my own while having Western comforts within arm’s reach is what gives the UAE its perfect appeal in my books.”

Considered a one-year program, the instructors start teaching the writing, language development, listening and reading courses Oct. 5.

Contact:
Cyndi McLeod, AVP TRU World (p) 250- 828-5262