Education
From The Report: Abu Dhabi 2013
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While the emirate currently maintains one of the more respected educational systems in the region, the sector continues to develop and possesses tremendous potential for sustainable and long-term growth. Recent efforts have focused on upgrading the present academic system by reducing gaps between vocational education and industry and between secondary and tertiary education. Several organisations are working together to identify skills shortages and create vocational training programmes, and new partnerships aimed at strengthening research between academia and industry are being forged across and beyond the sector. Encouragingly, Abu Dhabi has also seen a significant increase in student enrolment numbers in recent years. The figure rose by 22% between the 2005/06 and 2010/11 academic years. At the same time, the sector has seen a significant rise in the number of private universities offering higher degrees. This chapter includes interviews with Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research; and Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director-General, Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC).

Articles from this Chapter

Overview

Meeting diverse challenges: A rapidly growing sector paves the way for learning at all levels
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The role of education is pivotal to Abu Dhabi’s economic development plan, known as Economic Vision 2030. Whilst the emirate currently maintains one of the more respected educational systems in the region, the sector continues to develop and possesses tremendous potential for sustainable and long-term growth. Recent collaborative efforts have focused on upgrading the present academic system by reducing gaps between vocational education and industry and between secondary and tertiary education.…

Interview

The leap forward: OBG talks to Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research
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Interview: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan Given the young demographics of the UAE, what are the government’s higher education priorities? SHEIKH NAHYAN BIN MUBARAK AL NAHYAN: The government is committed to providing education and equal opportunities for all students, both male and female. In order to ensure sufficient capacity, the ministry carries out an annual study to monitor how many students plan to enter higher education institutions. We have reached an understanding in government…

Interview

The leap forward: OBG talks to Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research
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Interview: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan Given the young demographics of the UAE, what are the government’s higher education priorities? SHEIKH NAHYAN BIN MUBARAK AL NAHYAN: The government is committed to providing education and equal opportunities for all students, both male and female. In order to ensure sufficient capacity, the ministry carries out an annual study to monitor how many students plan to enter higher education institutions. We have reached an understanding in government…

Analysis

Thinking outside the box: There is an increased emphasis on developing new ideas to spur the sector and economy forward
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The focus on research and development (R&D) at universities and higher education institutions bodes well for Abu Dhabi’s education system and economy. Educators and public officials recognise the importance of investing in R&D projects. “A major component to economic development is building research capabilities,” said Wael Ibrahim Al Anqar, the chairman of Emirates College of Technology (ECT), an Abu Dhabi-based institution. “More local universities are making this a priority…

Analysis

Practice makes perfect: Vocational training institutions highlight the potential in students
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The success of Abu Dhabi’s education sector depends in part on the development of vocational training. Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, the emirate’s long-term plan for economic development and diversification, underlines the importance of vocational education by indicating that greater technical training will improve local workforce skills in both the short and medium terms. Labour productivity and growth will rise as a result. The different types of vocational education and training can…

Interview

Developing well-rounded students: OBG talks to Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director-General, Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC)
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Intrerview: Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili How are the government and ADEC going about improving teaching techniques and quality assurance within the education sector of Abu Dhabi? MUGHEE KHAMIS AL KHAILI: ADEC’s mandate is to provide students with critical thinking, problem solving, research and communication skills. Holistic reform is needed and all education areas are under review. The New School Model will transform education from rote to active learning methodology and since Abu Dhabi’s…

Analysis

Private alternatives: Supply and demand both rise as investment flows in
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While Abu Dhabi’s government schools are currently undergoing improvements such as a holistic approach to curriculum reform known as the New School Model, private education in Abu Dhabi is also rapidly changing. Private school enrolment has grown steadily over the past decade, and older private schools are being closed while investors and government regulators are planning the construction of a number of new schools. FACTS & FIGURES: According to data from the Statistics Centre – Abu…

Analysis

Improving linguistic skills: Encouraging multi-tier options for education and training in English
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With English as the language of instruction at many of Abu Dhabi’s higher education programmes, English proficiency can sometimes hinder students seeking post-secondary school education. While remedial courses are available to help high school graduates improve their language skills before entering university or other tertiary-level institutions, authorities in recent years have started to focus on improving English competency earlier in the schooling process, when it may be easier for students…