Education

Building a skilled workforce capable of driving a knowledge-based economy is Abu Dhabi’s main goal when it comes to education. In pursuit of this aim, the emirate’s government is making major investments in its schools and universities that are geared towards enhancing the quality and quantity of education for the growing local population. Thanks to government incentives and increased local demand, the private sector is playing a greater role in both K-12 schools and higher education. An emphasis on vocational and technical training is also helping to provide students with the skills needed in the workplace, while efforts to attract international universities are further enhancing the range of post-secondary options on offer, meaning Abu Dhabi appears to be on track with its plans to build up the skills of the local workforce. This chapter contains interviews with Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Director-General, Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC); and Hussain Ibrahim Al Hammadi, Director-General, Abu Dhabi Centre for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ACTVET).