Higher learning gets a boost in Dubai, U.A.E.

Professor Ammar Kaka, vice-principal and dean of Heriot-Watt University's Dubai campus, believes the new law will increase the number of Emirati students in free zone branch campuses.

"I think Resolution 21 should result in more Emirati students joining us as well as more Middle East students because some Emirati graduates will go on to work for the government," he said. "So the option of internationally attested degrees is an attractive option because it will give them a continued chance or option."

Dubai: The number of students enrolled in higher education institutions in Dubai increased 10 per cent last year, a Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) report revealed yesterday.

The total number of students enrolled in the emirate's tertiary education sector was put at 43,212 in the report titled The Higher Education Landscape in Dubai 2011. This compares to a total of 39,127 students in the previous year.

"In a short period of time we've seen the number of students increase exponentially, which is a great testimonial for the concept of branch campuses," said Dr Abdullah Al Karam, director general of the KHDA. "Now with introduction of Resolution 21 existing investors and students will be reassured of predicted exponential growth of Dubai's higher education sector."

The data, collected in October 2011, was disclosed by the KHDA yesterday as part of its third annual higher education landscape report. It aims to provide a snapshot of Dubai's higher education sector for investors, students and higher education stakeholders.

The introduction of Resolution 21 last year means the KHDA is now recognised as a governing body. It is now authorised to certify academic degrees from private institutions in the free zones. This means, qualifications obtained by students at Dubai's free zone institutions will now be recognised by employers in both the private and public sectors. The Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) — part of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research — requires all institutions located outside the free zones to be licensed by the CAA.

Source: http://gulfnews.com/news/gulf/uae/education/higher-learning-gets-a-boost-1.1000148

yes read this a while ago. good move.