Abu Dhabi Schools Enhance Career Guidance Programs
How Are Abu Dhabi Schools Strengthening Career and University Guidance Programs?
Abu Dhabi schools have taken significant steps to enhance career and university guidance programs to adequately prepare students for their future decisions. The mandatory requirements introduced by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) aim to enable students to make informed choices regarding their career paths and the institutions they select.
New Requirements and Comprehensive Approach
The program mandated by ADEK is not just a simple advisory service but provides comprehensive guidance for preparation for post-secondary life. As part of the new requirements, schools perform annual evaluations to measure the program's effectiveness. Based on the results, they refine their strategies to bring about real, measurable outcomes.
The programs guide students starting from the 9th grade when they are about to choose subjects. Individual counseling and cooperation with parents play a crucial role in this process.
Rachel Batty, a career and university counselor at the British International School Abu Dhabi, states that counselors provide individual meetings with students and their parents to support them in making important decisions. In critical phases of students' academic careers, such as the transition between the 11th and 12th grades, in-depth discussions occur about their future goals.
Workshops and Core Skills Development
The counseling programs focus not only on university admissions but also on developing lifelong skills. Workshops are organized on resume writing, crafting personal statements, and interview techniques.
Michael Bloy, principal of Al Raha Gardens School, highlighted that students receive support on competitive platforms like the British UCAS and the American Common App. Schools help them adhere to deadlines, develop essays, and prepare for standardized exams like the SAT and IELTS. Additionally, students are informed about scholarship and financial aid opportunities.
Role of Alumni and Non-University Paths
A unique feature of these programs is the involvement of alumni who share their experiences regarding university applications and professional opportunities. This support system enriches the advice available to current students.
For those not planning to attend university, schools offer targeted career counseling and skill development opportunities. These include technical or vocational training and fostering entrepreneurial spirit. Schools assist in obtaining online certifications offered by platforms such as Coursera or edX.
University Visits and Mini Fairs
Schools also organize university visits and mini fairs, providing students direct access to admissions representatives and insights into various educational opportunities. The GEMS American Academy, for instance, hosted representatives from over 40 universities this year, from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, and the MENA region.
Annual Evaluations for Effectiveness
Schools conduct evaluations every year to assess the effectiveness of the program. These surveys include feedback from students and parents, self-assessments, and tracking students' post-secondary activities. Based on evaluation outcomes, schools may introduce new services and refine their curricula.
Why is this Important?
The ADEK initiative not only lays the foundation for students' future success but also ensures that Abu Dhabi remains a leader in education. Comprehensive career and university counseling programs allow students to make confident and well-informed decisions about their future careers, ultimately benefiting the entire society.
