Abu dhabi: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has completed electronic data integration with 54 higher education institutions (HEIs) across the UAE. The initiative is part of an integrated national digital project, aimed at leveraging educational data to inform policies, enhance student journeys, and boost the quality of educational services in line with the highest standards of efficiency and governance. The Ministry continues to integrate additional HEIs in accordance with an approved phased plan.
According to Emirates News Agency, this project contributes to improving the student experience by simplifying procedures and accelerating admission and qualification recognition. It supports students' smooth transition across all stages of education, graduation, and entry into the labour market. The system provides access to accurate, up-to-date data and indicators in real time through smart dashboards, supporting academic planning, monitoring future trends, and enabling data-driven decision-making at institutional and national levels.
The integration represents a transformational step in the approach to monitoring and evaluating HEI performance with a focus on acquired knowledge and skills rather than traditional inputs in line with the recently issued Federal Decree Law on Higher Education and Scientific Research. The Law aims to establish a comprehensive national framework for regulating the sector, strengthening governance and administrative efficiency, and elevating the quality and competitiveness of higher education while ensuring alignment between educational outcomes and labour market requirements.
Commenting on the initiative, Dr. Rawan Ghali, Director of Institutional Effectiveness at the American University in Dubai (AUD), noted the positive impact on both academic and administrative performance due to secure, real-time data exchange. Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai, highlighted the project's alignment with the UAE's Zero Government Bureaucracy programme and its support for a smart, interconnected, and data-driven higher education ecosystem.
Dr. Burton A. Aggabao from Fujairah University emphasized the project's role in enhancing institutional governance and performance accountability. Professor Manda Venkatramana of Gulf Medical University praised the streamlined processes and improved data accuracy. Professor Ghassan Aouad of Abu Dhabi University reaffirmed the institution's commitment to digital transformation, while James Anthony Morse of Rabdan Academy recognized the project's alignment with the 'We the UAE 2031' vision.
The electronic data integration marks a significant advancement in the digital transformation of the UAE's higher education sector, ensuring the sector's readiness for a future grounded in knowledge and innovation. MoHESR remains committed to supporting HEIs in facilitating this integration and enhancing service quality at technical and logistical levels.