Executive managers call for more postgraduate programs in Abu Dhabi at an open meeting organized by ADU

During the meeting, which was organized by the College of Scientific Research and Graduate Studies, a number of executive managers and researchers who are currently enrolled in postgraduate programs at the university were of the opinion that the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is completely set and qualified to build a national base of researchers and applied academics.

Especially in light of the tremendous growth the UAE has witnessed in the number of scientific institutes and universities which are keen on offering postgraduate programs.

The meeting was attended by Dr. Nabil Ibrahim, the ADU Chancellor, Dr. Yosser Gadhoum, Dean of the College of Research and Graduate Studies, and a number of other college deans and faculty members.

The postgraduate students in attendance noted that the expansion in the offering of postgraduate programs at ADU, which are offered in cooperation with some of the world's most prestigious universities, will reinforce the capabilities of human resources in the Emirate in such a way that it will be able to face the challenges of the labor market in the capital.

The students called on the university to expand its postgraduate programs even further and requested more programs that are aligned with the labor market needs in Abu Dhabi and the UAE.

They were particularly interested in the fields of engineering, industry, construction planning, bridge construction, communications, IT, banking, and insurance. There was also a strong call for programs which target the tourism, exhibition, hotel, museum and other sectors.

Dr. Nabil Ibrahim, the ADU Chancellor, noted that the university is keen on increasing the number of postgraduate programs that are on offer at the university and ensuring the quality and the excellent curricula of such programs by offering them in cooperation with the world's most prestigious universities and research institutes.

A number of the students in attendance gave presentations that showed how much they have benefited from their various programs.

Saeed Mohamed Al Dhaheri, the General Manager of Gulf Horizon Group and a master student, said, "My decision to enroll in the MBA program was based on a need to advance further in my career, elevate my potential, and expand my analytical and critical thinking skills. I discovered that ADU offered exactly what I was looking for in terms of class structure, learning methods, program quality and individual attention. The emphasis placed on classroom interaction makes ADU's MBA program stand out above the rest. The diversity of backgrounds of the students contributes to a wide range of viewpoints and provides excellent networking opportunities."

Mubarak Saeed, a Manager at Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company said, "The MBA program at ADU has certainly expanded my analytical and critical thinking, and has developed my creative skills. The variety of courses in the program has expanded my knowledge in the different matters that are concerned with business."

Dr. Mohamed Hesham Newera, a Project Manager at Masdar that holds a Doctorate from Southampton University said, "My decision to pursue ADU's MBA was driven by my ambition to enhance my technical knowledge with managerial know-how and to keep abreast with the latest business trends in the ever-changing business environment of the UAE. I chose ADU because of the quality of its faculty and its state-of-the-art facilities. As a project director of a multi-billion dirham high-rise development on Al-Reem Island, the knowledge and skills gained from ADU's MBA program are very relevant to me. The most valuable aspect of studying at ADU is its holistic learning environment."

Mahmoud Murra, a Project Coordinator at Burooj Real Estate said, "Actually, I enrolled in the master program because I believe that in order to move towards a management position in your career, you will require additional education. Earning a master degree will help move your career to the next level as well as open up multiple other opportunities. Although many universities offer masters degrees, my decision to join the ADU masters program was based on the reputation and accreditation of the university."

Hekmat Bani Hashem, the Senior Manager (Academic Support Services) at Al Ain International Aviation Academy said, "I consider myself fortunate to be an ADU student. The Educational Leadership Masters program is a personal aim and being able to complete my masters degree will definitely give me a great sense of self-satisfaction. I am learning a lot about myself through this program. As a full time employee and as a busy mom of two very active teens, the MEd Leadership program at ADU allows me to pursue a degree in a way that is very convenient. Although challenging, I am finding this approach much better suited to my needs."

Muntaser Syed, an Analyst at Goldman Sachs who holds a BSc in Information Technology from University of Miami said, "The Masters in Computer Science program at Abu Dhabi University provided me with an opportunity to enroll in a masters course in the information technology field which gives me a chance to further my career, enhance my skills and participate in a dynamic and enthusiastic learning environment. In addition to this, the program provides an excellent stepping stone towards my final goal of attaining a PhD in this field."

Mohammed Ali Al Jaber, a Senior Operation Planning Engineer at the Transmission & Dispatch Company (TRANSCO) said, "The ADU MBA program has established itself as one of the elite programs in the country. I am proud to be part of the experience. The environment within ADU encourages students to develop the right attitude towards becoming successful MBA students; in every choice they make and every decision they take. The ADU tradition is great, and all the students have to work together to make this a historic experience."

Ms. Alyazia Al Kaabi, a Journalist for Al Itihad Newspaper said, "I am happy to say that the MBA at ADU has proven to be the most valuable learning experience in my life. The learning environment at ADU, with instructors that have excellent backgrounds in their fields of specialization, has certainly added value to my professional career as well as my personal life. Thank you ADU for bringing the MBA to the Al Ain Campus. The whole community is proud of this achievement."

Yousef Mousa Ali Hassan, a School Principal at Al Ain Islamic Scientific Institution, said, "Introducing a graduate program in Education Leadership in Al Ain was a great idea. This program provides those in education with an opportunity to gain meaningful insights, such as how to manage scarce resources to educate the children of the UAE."

"This program blends theory with practice which is relevant to the UAE. As a school principle, I find the program enriching. I am sure the knowledge of the degree program will also enable future generations of school principals to deal with the challenges of tomorrow through modernizing the 'old' way of running our schools," Ali Hassan added.