Gulf News Edufair Abu Dhabi Bridges Academic Study and Career Prospects

Academic programmes and workplace skills

Choosing a programme today goes beyond simply picking a university that offers the desired degree; learners must also weigh how the course prepares them for employment, which abilities they will acquire and what doors it may open after graduation.

These considerations will be at the heart of the Edufair, where participating institutions highlight the link between academic content and the competencies demanded by the workplace.

Prof R Swarnalatha, Associate Dean of Admissions and Marketing at BITS Pilani’s Dubai Campus, noted that the university is advancing instruction in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, robotics, automation, environmental and sustainability engineering, and business analytics.

She added that alongside these technical fields, the institute stresses critical thinking, communication, leadership and entrepreneurship, and at the fair it will display its academic programmes, research, innovations, student successes and industry‑integrated learning initiatives.

“We want visitors to see what makes a BITS education distinctive: strong academic foundations combined with academic flexibility, hands-on learning and meaningful industry exposure through our Practice School programmes,” she says.

Healthcare education and technology

Technology’s impact extends to healthcare education, where digital tools and artificial intelligence are increasingly shaping professional practice.

Prof Mohammad Obeid, Assistant Vice President – Global Strategy, Industrial Engagement, and Business Development at RAK Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), explained that the university prepares students for this setting through technology‑enhanced and simulation‑based learning, clinical exposure, research and interprofessional collaboration.

Its exhibition at the fair will feature programmes in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy and nursing, together with clinical training and research opportunities.

“We want visitors to see a university that connects education, healthcare, research and innovation to develop the next generation of healthcare professionals,” he says.

Practical experience and industry links

Practical experience also matters for students evaluating their choices. At Symbiosis International University in Dubai, programmes are incorporating artificial intelligence, business analytics and other emerging technologies, complemented by internships, live projects and industry collaborations that reinforce classroom learning.

Dr Taramol KG, Assistant Professor and Faculty Lead for Corporate Engagement and Career Development at Symbiosis Dubai, said the university will showcase its growing academic portfolio, industry‑aligned courses and scholarship options at the event.

“We aim to highlight how we combine academic excellence with practical industry exposure, preparing students to thrive in evolving global industries while contributing to the UAE’s vision for a knowledge‑driven economy.”

Overseas education guidance and early career planning

For those looking at education abroad, preparations start long before an application is submitted.

Choosing a course and institution, grasping admission requirements and arranging a visa can all shape the overall experience.

Kanika Nanda, Founder and Chief Executive of Connect To World Consultancy Services, stressed that guidance must reflect each student’s personal interests and long‑term goals.

Her consultancy provides career counselling, assistance with course and university selection, application support, visa help, and pre‑ and post‑departure assistance.

“We understand that every student’s journey is different, and our role is to make that journey smoother, clearer, and less overwhelming,” she says.

Career guidance does not have to wait until university applications are imminent.

Helping schoolchildren identify their strengths and learn about various professions can give them a clearer picture of their interests and future pathways.

My CareerCompass Today will present its Career Quest Championship 2026–27 at the Abu Dhabi Edufair, a scheme aimed at learners from Grade 1 to Grade 12 that introduces career options through hands‑on activities, industry exposure and real‑world projects.

Dr Mauli Mahajan, founder of MyCompassToday and 3E Worldwide, said the seven‑month experiential programme, created together with Gulf News, guides participants through six stages that mix career exploration, expert webinars, creative projects and personalised portfolios to help them recognise their strengths and make informed decisions.

“Our message is that every child deserves a compass before choosing a destination,” she says.

Those interested can register to gain access to over 20 universities, career service providers and study abroad consultants.