Features

5G for Inclusive, Personalized, and Economic Learning Experiences of the Future

Published

1 year ago

May 8, 2024

Integrator Web-Editor

By: Dr. Eman AbuKhousa

Professor for Information Technology & Communication

University of Europe for Applied Sciences

In this era of digital transformation, education is approaching a pivotal change, one where learning is not just about consuming knowledge, but experiencing it. Education is the process of designing experiences that help learners acquire knowledge and skills, enabling them to adaptively respond to challenges in their surroundings. In experiential learning, or “learning by living”, learners are “immersed” into real-life situations where they sense, think, interact, and decide the best course of action. The introduction of 5G technology into the educational sector promises a new age of immersive learning, where barriers of distance and access are obliterated, marking personalized and interactive education as the norm, not the exception.

5G is the fifth generation of wireless cellular technology that is much faster and more reliable than the previous networks. This is not just about faster downloads or smoother streaming; it is about creating a fabric of connectivity that is versatile enough to support everything from everyday conveniences to critical, life-saving innovations.

Immersive learning experiences are developed using artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies to model virtual spaces where learners can perform various tasks. These include communicating, and collaborating with others, utilizing digital objects, creating content, and even editing or generating new spaces. By design, the effectiveness of these experiences relies on the motion-to-photon latency—the delay between a user’s action and its impact on-screen— which should be kept to a minimum to maintain learner immersion, a critical factor in engaging learners. This significantly requires access to high-bandwidth networks to support real-time transmission and processing of large amounts of data to achieve seamless and consistent shared experiences across time and space and among large number of learners. The increased capabilities of 5G such as up to 10Gbps data rate, 1-millisecond latency, and the ability to connect up to 100 times more devices per unit area than previous technologies, would highly leverage the use of AI/AR/VR and enable the development of new and improved immersive learning experiences.

Furthermore, 5G technology enables the integration of a variety of educational technologies, such as interactive e-contents, learning applications and collaboration platforms, all of which can be customized to individual learning needs and preferences. The capability of these tools to deliver immediate support, coupled with instant feedback and assessments fundamentally transforms the learning journey. It enables learners to reflect on their experiences, assess their thoughts and understand the consequences of their behaviors and actions in real time. This in turn, allows them to use the outcomes to adjust their actions and prepare for future experiences. Additionally, 5G empowers educators to evaluate the quality of the learning experience and to adapt the design of future experiences to meet the needs of their learners more effectively. This signifies a major advancement towards more interactive and personalized learning pathways.

The emergence of 5G technology has also considerably contributed to shaping UNESCO’s global initiative “Futures of Education: learning to become”¹ which advocates for education systems that address injustices and leverage technology to broaden human capabilities, aiming for a more inclusive and sustainable world. This effort aligns with the item 4 of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): “Quality Education- Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all”². In this context, 5G connectivity is set to enhance educational access and quality not only by facilitating real-time lesson streaming and enhancing access to learning platforms and educational multimedia materials but also, and more importantly, by augmenting the functionalities of assistive technologies in special education. This implies that robotics designed for learners with physical disabilities could become more responsive. Similarly, real-time transcriptions for learners with hearing impairments would be quicker and more precise, and those with cognitive or physical impairments could engage in virtual worlds alongside their peers, leading to a learning experience that is more inclusive for everyone.

Viewed from another perspective, 5G holds the potential to enhance the efficiency of educational operations and, consequently, reduce the cost in several ways. A 2022 report³ reveals that in OECD countries, annual education spending averages at $9,900 per student for primary education, incorporating both household and governmental expenses. This figure rises to $11,400 at the secondary level and further escalates to $17,600 per student at the tertiary level. The report also highlights how expenditure is allocated in tertiary institutions, with 63% dedicated to core services such as educators’ salaries, infrastructure, and administrative costs. Meanwhile, 33% of funds support research and development (R&D) activities, and a smaller fraction of 4% goes towards ancillary services like meals and transportation.

The ultra-fast speeds, lower latency, and the capacity to connect a vast number of devices with 5G can make remote learning more accessible and reliable. This reduces the need for maintenance and expansion of physical infrastructures, thus lowering operational costs related to buildings, utilities, and on-site resources. For institutions with physical campuses, 5G can support the implementation of “smart campus” technologies, which may include energy-efficient building controls, optimized route planning for campus transport, and predictive maintenance systems. On the other hand, the ability of 5G to support AI, AR, and VR technologies for simulations and laboratory experiences can significantly reduce the need for expensive physical lab equipment and materials, as well as the space required to house them, while providing scalable learning opportunities. Additionally, as mentioned earlier, by enhancing the functionalities of assistive technologies, 5G can reduce the need for specialized, and often more costly, educational arrangements for students with disabilities. It can also decrease the time and labor costs associated with administrative tasks, such as attendance tracking, grade reporting, event scheduling, and resource allocation, through the use of cloud-based services to manage these tasks more efficiently. However, one of the most impactful and promising applications of 5G technology in reducing education costs is its ability to vastly improve the sharing of resources across institutions – a practice I strongly encourage all educational entities to consider. The more efficient sharing of digital resources among institutions, including textbooks, multimedia content, and interactive learning tools, can decrease the per-student cost of educational materials by leveraging economies of scale and reducing the need for physical materials. This also benefits R&D activities, as collaborative research projects can be conducted in virtual environments, allowing experts from around the world to work together more efficiently, regardless of their physical location, while sharing expensive research resources and large databases.

While I understand that the pursuit of competitive advantage among educational institutions often emphasizes unique offerings and resources, I also believe that institutions can rise above traditional competitive barriers. By nurturing an ecosystem of shared growth and mutual benefits, educational entities can become more appealing to the new generation of learners who value the corporate social responsibilities and sustainability practices of modern education institutions.

Bearing this in mind, let’s not overlook the critical ethical questions we face. The key challenge is to balance innovation with integrity. Protecting the privacy of learners’ data is imperative, and we must remain vigilant as digital footprints expand. Bridging the digital divide is a crucial moral obligation; access to this technology should be universal, not a privilege. And while 5G has the potential to transform learning, it must not diminish the human connection that is at the heart of education. In essence, the journey towards integrating 5G in the education sector is not just about technological upgrades but also about ethical stewardship, inclusivity, and socialization where individuals build on each other’s experiences. Let’s not just chase the future; let’s shape it responsibly.

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Features

Redefining Real Estate: The Rise of Wellness-Centric Spaces

Published

3 months ago

March 14, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Mark Phoenix – CEO of Sankari

The way we think about real estate is evolving, and at the heart of this change is a renewed focus on wellness. As we become more aware of the profound impact our living environments have on our health and well-being, it’s clear that real estate must go beyond aesthetics and luxury—it must support a lifestyle of vitality and longevity. To me, true luxury is no longer defined solely by opulence but by spaces that promote health, balance, and connection.

The demand for wellness-oriented spaces is growing rapidly, and real estate developers must rise to meet it. Today’s buyers are looking for more than just high-end finishes and exclusive locations—they want environments that enhance their well-being. Integrating wellness features such as fitness centers, yoga studios, meditation areas, and holistic health services is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. These spaces don’t just add value to a property; they create communities that create physical health, mental clarity, and social engagement.

Wellness-centric design is about more than just adding amenities—it’s about creating environments that encourage movement, relaxation, and human connection. By prioritizing well-being in real estate, developers can offer residents a lifestyle that aligns with modern values and aspirations. These spaces cultivate a sense of belonging, allowing people to come together in ways that enrich their lives beyond the walls of their homes.

Beyond individual benefits, wellness-focused communities have a lasting impact on society. As more people seek out homes that support their health, the real estate industry has an opportunity to lead this cultural shift. Developments that incorporate sustainable materials, biophilic design, and eco-friendly building practices not only benefit residents but also contribute to a healthier planet.

In the ultra-luxury segment, this focus on wellness is especially meaningful. The most sought-after properties are no longer just about extravagance—they are about creating a sanctuary where people can rejuvenate both physically and mentally. True luxury lies in thoughtful, health-driven design that enhances everyday life in meaningful ways.

Designing for wellness also means partnering with visionary architects and designers who understand the importance of both form and function. In regions with challenging climates, for example, innovative solutions can help reduce environmental impact while enhancing comfort and efficiency. Securing sustainability certifications like LEED further reinforces a commitment to responsible development and aligns with the global movement toward eco-conscious living.

For me, integrating wellness into real estate is more than just a trend—it’s a deeply personal mission and a strategic imperative. The places we live should do more than just shelter us; they should actively contribute to our health and happiness. By embedding wellness into the very foundation of luxury real estate, we’re not just shaping beautiful spaces—we’re shaping better lives.

Features

We are bringing tradition to every table in just five minutes

Published

4 months ago

February 20, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

Exclusive Interview with Ashvin Subramanyam, CEO International Business, Orkla India

In this exclusive interview, Ashvin Subramanyam, CEO of International Business at Orkla India, shares insights on the brand’s participation at Gulfood 2025 and its mission to blend tradition with innovation in the Middle East. With the launch of Eastern’s 5-Minute Breakfast range and a refreshed Arabic spice portfolio, Orkla IMEA is redefining convenience without compromising on authenticity.

What can we expect from Orkla IMEA’s presence at Gulfood 2025, and how significant is this event for your brand’s growth in the region?

At Gulfood 2025, Orkla IMEA, subsidiary of Orkla India, is set to make a strong impact by unveiling the Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range, designed to bring the authentic flavors of Kerala to the fast-growing ready-to-cook market in the Middle East. In addition, visitors can expect a refreshed Arabic spice portfolio, reflecting Orkla India’s continued commitment to catering to the diverse culinary preferences of the region.

Gulfood is a key platform for us as it enables us to showcase our latest innovations to a global audience, including retailers, distributors, and food industry leaders. The Middle East is a strategic market for our expansion. By blending tradition with convenience, our goal through this event is to become a household name across diverse communities in the region, reinforcing our commitment to quality, authenticity, and innovation in packaged foods.

How does Gulfood help Orkla IMEA connect with new markets, consumers, and industry partners, particularly in the Middle East?

Gulfood serves as a vital gateway for Orkla India to connect with new markets, consumers, and industry partners through its subsidiary Orkla IMEA in the Middle East. As one of the world’s largest food and beverage trade exhibitions, it provides an unparalleled opportunity to engage directly with key stakeholders, including retailers, distributors, and hospitality businesses, facilitating strategic partnerships and market expansion.

For Orkla India, this event is instrumental in understanding regional consumer trends, preferences, and evolving dietary habits, particularly in the fast-growing packaged food sector. The launch of the Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range and refreshed Arabic spice portfolio at Gulfood allows us to showcase our innovation in convenience-driven yet authentic culinary solutions.

By participating in Gulfood, we strengthen our brand presence, foster collaborations with regional partners, and position ourselves as a trusted name in ethnic and mainstream food categories. It’s a key milestone in our vision to become a household name in the Middle East.

Eastern is set to unveil its preservative-free quick South Indian 5-Minute Breakfast range. What was the inspiration behind this concept?

The Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range was inspired by the growing need for convenient, time-saving meal solutions that do not compromise on authentic taste and quality. South Indian breakfasts, particularly Kerala’s traditional dishes, are deeply rooted in culture, requiring significant time and effort to prepare. However, with modern lifestyles becoming increasingly fast-paced, many consumers struggle to recreate these meals from scratch.

Recognizing this shift, Eastern set out to bridge the gap between tradition and convenience by crafting a range that retains the authentic flavours and textures of Kerala’s most-loved breakfasts while eliminating the long preparation time. The preservative-free formula ensures that consumers enjoy fresh, wholesome meals made from high-quality ingredients in just three easy steps, ready in five minutes.

With this innovation, Eastern empowers busy professionals, young families, and expatriates to stay connected to their culinary heritage without compromising on their schedules, making traditional breakfast accessible anytime, anywhere in just 5 minutes.

Can you give us an insight into the development process behind this 5-Minute Breakfast range, especially in maintaining authentic South Indian flavors without preservatives?

The development process for our 5-Minute Breakfast range began with a deep understanding of our consumers’ evolving lifestyles and their desire for authentic Kerala-style breakfasts that eliminate a lengthy preparation process. We identified a unique need-gap: while traditional dishes like Puttu, Appam, and Idiyappam are much-loved, the time and effort they require can be challenging in today’s fast-paced world.

Our journey involved benchmarking these dishes to the traditional methods used by homemakers, capturing the essence of how an amma would prepare them at home. This set the standard for the flavor profiles we aimed to achieve. The challenge was to replicate the authentic taste and texture while ensuring our products were preservative-free.

Our R&D team worked tirelessly, conducting extensive trials to balance authenticity and convenience. Through our innovation center we crafted recipes that retain the goodness of traditional Kerala breakfasts while being ready in just five minutes. With this range, Eastern redefines breakfast convenience, allowing families to savor the true flavors of Kerala in a fraction of time.

With over one million Keralites in the UAE, how does Eastern plan to cater to both the traditional tastes of this community and the broader multicultural audience?

With almost two million Keralites in the UAE, Eastern understands the deep emotional and cultural connection this community has with its traditional cuisine. The Eastern 5-Minute Breakfast range is designed to preserve the authentic flavours of Kerala while offering a convenient solution for modern lifestyles. By using high-quality ingredients and a preservative-free formula, the range ensures that the taste and texture remain true to tradition, making it an ideal choice for Malayalees longing for home-cooked meals.

While there are other instant and ready-to-eat options in the market, Eastern’s range stands out by offering dishes like Puttu and Palappam, which traditionally require culinary expertise and time-consuming preparation. These dishes are not widely available in the quick- convenience food category.

At the same time, Eastern is expanding its reach to a broader multicultural audience by showcasing South Indian cuisine as a flavourful, nutritious, and easy-to-prepare option for all. The simplicity of the 3 Easy Steps preparation makes these dishes accessible to non-South Indian consumers who are eager to explore new flavours. Through strategic retail partnerships, digital outreach and and aggressive in-store sampling, Eastern aims to introduce and establish South Indian breakfast as a preferred choice for consumers in this region.

What’s one thing about Orkla IMEA that people might not know but should?

While Orkla IMEA was incorporated recently, we have been in the region for over 25 years now, through our brand Eastern.

Features

2025 Hospitality Tech Trends

Published

4 months ago

February 12, 2025

Integrator Web-Editor

By Prince Thampi, Founder and CEO, Hudini

As we approach 2025, the hospitality industry is poised for transformational growth, driven by evolving traveller preferences and advancements in technology. The future of hospitality promises enhanced convenience, personalisation and sustainability, with a significant focus on creating memorable experiences for guests. Let’s dive into five key trends that will shape the hospitality tech landscape in 2025 and beyond.

The Continued Rise of Frictionless Technology

The increased demand for frictionless experiences is set to dominate the industry, with more and more travellers preferring hotels that offer touch-free check-in, check-out, and room access via mobile apps. This trend reflects a broader shift towards easy interactions powered by seamless digital integration. Mobile apps have been an essential tool for a few years now, enabling guests to manage their stays, order room service, and access hotel information effortlessly. With the introduction of Gen AI, those apps have become more powerful than ever and are now able to provide highly personalised recommendations and speak in different languages.

Hotels embracing this trend will gain a competitive edge, as tech-savvy travellers prioritise convenience and efficiency during their stay. According to a recent survey by Deloitte, around 72% of travellers are more likely to choose a hotel that offers mobile check-in and check-out services over those that don’t.

Hyper Personalised Guest Experiences

In 2025, personalisation will continue to be at the core of hospitality services but will finally be taken to the next level thanks to Gen AI. Guests expect hotels to anticipate their needs and offer tailored experiences, from customised room settings to personalised dining recommendations. Apps powered by AI are now able to predict guest needs based on a wealth of data, ingested from the hotel systems or fed externally.

Leveraging guest data and insights, hotels can create unique offerings that cater to individual preferences. This level of personalisation not only enhances guest satisfaction but also fosters loyalty and repeat bookings. According to Oracle’s findings, biometrics and AI are set to play pivotal roles, with 62% of guests valuing automated recognition for personalised interactions. Biometrics will experience a breakthrough into mainstream hospitality in 2025. Facial recognition technology has matured significantly and is ready to be weaved into the guest experience. It will enable better security and guest recognition while protecting their privacy at the same time.

AI-Enabled Customer Service

Artificial intelligence is revolutionising every aspect of the hospitality industry, but will be by itself a new way of providing customer service. Chatbots and virtual assistants are becoming standard tools for handling common queries, offering instant support, and streamlining operations at any time and in any language.

AI-driven solutions not only enhance efficiency but also provide guests with 24/7 assistance, ensuring a smoother and more satisfying experience. By integrating AI technologies, hotels can free up staff to focus on delivering exceptional in-person service.

Sustainability and Eco-Friendly Practices

Sustainability is no longer optional, it’s a necessity often enforced by regulation. Travellers are increasingly favouring hotels that adopt eco-friendly practices, such as using locally sourced food, implementing energy-efficient operations, and reducing waste.

By prioritising sustainability, hotels not only meet guest expectations but also contribute positively to the environment. This commitment to green initiatives enhances brand reputation and attracts environmentally conscious travellers. A recent survey by Booking.com found that 83% of global respondents believe more sustainable travel is vital, with 49% believing there aren’t enough sustainable travel options and 53% saying they get annoyed when a hotel prevents them from being sustainable.

Smart use of technology is key in the sustainability journey of hotels. Technology can accurately measure the reduction in carbon footprint, it will help reduce energy and adopt renewable energy sources, and will enable the effective management of food waste. Many hospitality apps allow guests to apply green energy settings to a room, some will even exchange your energy savings to loyalty points.

The return of ‘real’

With Gen Z – the first generation grown up with everything digital – becoming the next large group to travel, the craving for ‘real’ experiences is bigger than it ever was. Hotels focusing on truly unique and hyper local experiences; a great meal, cultural outing, or wellness treatment will win the hearts of this generation.

Fortunately hotel apps, AI, automation of processes, sustainability tech and the removal of cumbersome processes like checking-in and studying paper manuals will free up hotel staff to allow them to do what they do best: providing unforgettable, personalised and sustainable experiences.