Dubai: The Advisory Committee for Higher Education and Future Skills held its second meeting for 2025, chaired by Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The meeting took place at Mohammed Bin Rashid University of Medicine and Health Sciences and brought together members representing national universities and key economic sectors.
According to Emirates News Agency, during the meeting, three new working groups were established – the Legal Competencies Development Group, the Drone Skills Group, and the National Competencies Enhancement Group. These groups are set to address the Energy, Renewable Energy, and Water sectors, seen as vital to the UAE economy. This addition brings the total number of the Committee’s working groups to eight. Previously, the Advisory Committee had formed five working groups, which include the Health Sciences Group, the Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education Group, and others focused on critical areas for the country’s development.
Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar emphasized the commitment to aligning higher education with national priorities and future labour market needs, empowering universities and research centers to drive sustainable development. He stated that the Advisory Committee serves as a collaborative model, uniting experts, academics, and industry leaders to transform ideas into initiatives for developing future-ready talent.
He further highlighted that the establishment of new working groups is a significant step in the Ministry’s efforts to create a comprehensive network connecting universities and research centers with industry and business leaders. This initiative supports the UAE’s future vision and enhances its global competitiveness.
The meeting also reviewed key initiatives and projects spearheaded by the working groups, such as developing an ethical framework for AI use in higher education, integrating future skills into academic programs, and creating a national roadmap for health education to improve curricula, academic programs, and healthcare innovation.
Specialized forums will be organized for each working group, facilitating stakeholder engagement to showcase initiatives, share achievements, and exchange knowledge across education, scientific research, business, and industry sectors.
The Advisory Committee for Higher Education and Future Skills operates as a subcommittee of the Higher Education Committee of the Education, Human Development, and Community Development Council. Its mission is to align higher education with future labour market needs, supporting the We the UAE 2031 vision and UAE Centennial 2071 goals.