The National Academy for Childhood Development, part of the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ADECA), has welcomed its second group of students into the accredited Vocational Diploma in Childhood Development programme, accredited by the National Qualification Centre.

The accredited Vocational Diploma programme, now in its second year, has received 7,800 applications, reflecting the academy’s efforts to nurture qualified professionals capable of advancing childhood development and improving outcomes for children and families across Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

Following a thorough selection process that involved interviews and assessments to ensure high-quality candidates, 1.73 per cent of applicants were admitted, compared to 2.38 per cent of 4,200 last year. The new group of participants is marked by its diversity and academic qualifications, encompassing doctorate, master’s, bachelor’s degrees, and high school diplomas, with a significant number of Emiratis among the 11 different nationalities.

Dr Meera Saeed AlKaabi, Chief the National Academy for Childhood Development, said: “We are thrilled by the outstanding response to join the academy. This underscores our successful efforts in fostering community engagement and advancing childhood development within just one year of the academy’s launch. As we continue to nurture the sector with the talented graduates from our inaugural cohort, we are excited to welcome this new group of dedicated individuals. We are committed to equipping them with the necessary resources and support to excel and make a significant impact on the future of childhood development in the UAE.”

The new group of participants will follow the path of the first one, which wrapped up the 12-month initial phase and is now entering a six-month period of hands-on experience starting this September. These training opportunities will take place at the Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination (ZHO), the Family Care Authority (FCA), and public nurseries under the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). As they embark on their professional journey in childhood development, these graduates set a benchmark for the new students, reflecting the academy’s expectations and offering valuable insights from their own experience.

The 18-month accredited Vocational Diploma in Childhood Development provides a comprehensive and specialised education in childcare and development, tailored to community needs with a strong focus on national identity and the Arabic language. The programme is designed to equip childcare providers with advanced skills aligned with global best practices, preparing them to address current gaps and tackle future challenges and opportunities. Additionally, it offers full scholarships to all students.

The orientation week, which took place in August 2024, offered students essential information and resources, including a tour of the academy’s facilities, a detailed overview of the programme, and insights into support services designed to ensure students are fully prepared for their academic journey.