Shenzhen: Two students from the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK) have secured Second Prize at the Global Final of the Huawei ICT Competition 2025-26, held in Shenzhen, China. Competing against some of the world's most brilliant student innovation teams, the AURAK students showcased their pioneering language learning app, LingHua.
According to Emirates News Agency, LingHua had previously clinched First Place at the regional competition, propelling the team to the global stage. The Huawei ICT Competition is recognized as one of the largest student technology competitions worldwide. LingHua was specifically developed to address the increasing demand for Mandarin language learning in the UAE and the surrounding region. Unlike conventional learning platforms that use English as a medium, LingHua allows learners to study Mandarin directly through Arabic, offering a more intuitive and culturally relevant learning experience.
The platform's features include an AI-powered virtual tutor that aids users in practicing conversations, improving pronunciation, and building confidence. Professor Bassam Alameddine, President of AURAK, expressed pride in the students' accomplishment, stating, "This outstanding achievement reflects the kind of innovation we foster at AURAK, where students are encouraged to solve real-world challenges through creativity, collaboration, and technology."
The app was developed by Zoha Farooq, a Mass Communication student, and Hazim Anwar, a Computer Engineering student, under the guidance of Dr. Khouloud Salameh, Associate Dean of the School of Engineering and Computing / Associate Professor - Computer Science, AURAK. Designed for school students, teachers, and independent learners, LingHua combines interactive lessons, personalized learning pathways, and classroom management tools to create an engaging educational experience. Early trials in UAE classrooms have shown strong student engagement and positive feedback from teachers, underscoring the platform's potential to enhance Mandarin education in the country.
This year's Huawei ICT Competition Global Final featured 177 teams from 49 countries and regions, each presenting innovative solutions to real-world challenges. The competition attracted over 220,000 students and faculty members from more than 2,000 institutions across 100 countries and regions, highlighting its global scale and significance.
