The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) continues to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global leader in knowledge, innovation and economic growth through its Abu Dhabi Scholarships (ADS) programme, which is dedicated to developing a highly skilled and dynamic workforce.
Since its launch in 2015, the ADS programme has been pivotal in equipping Emirati students with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in critical sectors. To date, more than 2,000 Emirati students have benefited from the programme, with more than 95 per cent securing key roles across Abu Dhabi's innovative industries, contributing significantly to the emirate's standing as a global hub for sustainable development.
The programme equips students with a tailored academic journey, complete with dedicated advisors, career counseling, and post-graduation employment support. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to contribute to the success of Abu Dhabi's key sectors.
Dr Bashaer Almatrooshi, Executive Director of the Talent Enablement Sector at ADEK, said: “We are aligning our fields of study with industry needs to ensure our graduates are prepared academically, possess the required skills for employment and thrive in the workforce of tomorrow. In addition, we provide our students with holistic support from the moment they begin their scholarship right through to their professional careers. The growth of the programme and the success of our alumni showcase the impact of our education and workforce readiness initiatives."
To meet evolving market demands, ADEK continuously refines the programme, offering over 100 majors across elite and creative fields. Current majors include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Renewable Energy & Clean Technology, Healthcare & Biotechnology, Financial Technology (Fintech) & Digital Banking, Sustainable Agriculture & Food Technology, and Art & Sports Innovation, including Animation, Culinary Arts and Sports Coaching. The programme has also expanded internationally, incorporating institutions and majors from countries like China, Italy, Russia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.
This year ADS is introducing its new master's programme in social fields at leading global institutions such as Columbia University in USA, University of Toronto in Canada, and the University of Melbourne in Australia. The programme covers disciplines including Clinical Psychology, Counseling Psychology, Family Counseling, and Psychotherapy and Social Work, aiming to develop specialised professionals equipped to address students and families’ growing social needs.
Through the programme, ADEK has established a robust network of more than 200 industry partners, enhancing its commitment to align students with top organisations and supply industries with skilled talent.
Aysha Al Dhaheri, Abu Dhabi Ports employee and ADS programme alumnus, said: "The programme gave me the perfect foundation to pursue my career and get me to where I am today. The blend of academic learning and professional experience was invaluable, and I am grateful for the development pathway as I look to progress further in my career."
ADEK's commitment to its alumni extends far beyond graduation. The Abu Dhabi Scholarships Alumni Bootcamp, held yearly, equips participants with critical skills in career planning, CV writing, LinkedIn networking and interview techniques. Additionally, attendees have the chance to connect with alumni from previous cohorts, fostering valuable exchanges of insights and experiences.
The boot camp, held at Mawaheb Talent Hub, concluded with an Industry Partners Networking Day, giving alumni the opportunity to engage with representatives from leading Abu Dhabi organizations, paving the way for them to secure their ideal career opportunities.
Key industry partners backing the Industry Partners Networking Day included Alpha Data, Ali & Sons, Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), Abu Dhabi Investment Council, General Pension & Social Security Authority, Department of Community Development (DCD), First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Abu Dhabi Municipality, Burjeel Holdings, Ernst & Young (EY), Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Boston Consulting Group (BCG), EDGE, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), Abu Dhabi Ports, Emirates NBD, Tawazun, Integrated Transport Centre and the Abu Dhabi Civil Defence Authority.
Applications for the ADS programme are open now for the 2025 intake until April 30th. UAE Nationals who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to visit the Abu Dhabi Scholarships website, and apply.
