American University of Sharjah announces distance learning till end of semester

Sharjah: The American University of Sharjah (AUS) on Wednesday announced extension of online learning for the remainder of the semester.

In a heartfelt message to the AUS community, Chancellor Dr Tod Laursen acknowledged the toll the uncertainty had taken and said the university had heard its students loud and clear.

The university took to social media and posted his letter on its website saying: “Clarity matters when direction is being defined. AUS has set its course for the rest of the semester. No compromise on safety. No compromise on academic integrity.”

Assuring certainty

The Chancellor wrote: "The recent approach of planning one or two weeks at a time has understandably created difficulty and uncertainty for many of you. We recognise how important it is for you to have greater clarity in order to plan effectively, both academically and personally."

The announcement marks a significant shift in tone, moving from provisional, updates in one or two weeks to a semester-long commitment that gives students the space to plan and focus on their studies.

"With this in mind, and in an effort to provide more stability, our planning moving forward will be guided by the expectation that online learning will remain in place for the remainder of the semester. We hope that offering this level of direction will help you make more informed decisions and feel more at ease during this time,” Dr Laursen said.

Wellbeing comes first

"Please know that this decision has been made with your well-being, academic continuity and overall experience in mind. We remain committed to supporting you and ensuring that you continue to have access to the resources and guidance you need."

He also encouraged students to stay connected with their families and to reach out to the university whenever they need support. "We are here for you every step of the way," the Chancellor added.

The move follows the UAE authorities extending distance learning across all levels of education until April 17, 2026.

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR), in coordination with the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council, extended remote learning at higher education institutions to that date, allowing in-person attendance only for priority programmes requiring clinical training, laboratory work or direct practical application with strict safety measures in place.

A parallel extension was announced for schools, with the Ministry of Education keeping all nurseries, kindergartens and public and private schools on distance learning until April 17, citing student and staff safety as the overriding priority.

The period of remote learning at UAE institutions has been ongoing since March 2, and was extended again at the start of Term 3 on March 23, after the spring break was brought forward by a week due to regional tensions. Authorities have said the situation will continue to be reviewed on a weekly basis.