Al Ain:Abu Dhabi University (ADU) recently concluded the third edition of its International Conference on Education (ADU_ICEDU2026) in Al Ain City, under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence.

According to Emirates News Agency, the conference gathered government officials, education leaders, researchers, and policymakers to explore innovative pedagogical approaches for an AI-driven, skills-focused future. Key participants included Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Advisor to the President of the UAE, Mahra Al-Mutaiwie from RCEP-UNESCO, Dr. Mohammed Abdullah Al-Ali of TRENDS Group, and Abdelmajeed Shamlawi of Queen Rania Teacher Academy.

The event, themed 'Designing Pedagogical Approaches for Future Learners Challenges and Opportunities,' featured 141 research papers over 12 tracks, covering AI, digital transformation, and industry-academic collaboration. It included keynote addresses, a Presidential Dialogue, a fireside chat on Gen Z, panel discussions, and professional workshops, with contributions from over 36 speakers and experts.

Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of ADU, emphasized the need for education to balance ambition with responsibility, particularly in the integration of AI, while maintaining a focus on inclusion and human values. The conference aimed to foster idea exchange for transforming education and improving learning experiences.

Speakers at the conference stressed the importance of preparing learners with future-ready skills and using inclusive, evidence-based educational approaches. They highlighted the need for responsible and learner-centered adoption of emerging technologies.

Dr. Mohammad Fteiha, Conference Chair, noted the diverse perspectives shared on evolving teaching and learning in response to new technologies and future workforce demands. The conference encouraged practical solutions for educators and institutions to improve educational practices.

The event also saw the launch of the Ali Bin Harmal Educational Research Grant to advance educational research in the UAE, initially involving Abu Dhabi University and Liwa University, with plans to expand participation by the 2027-28 academic year.

Researchers presented on topics like AI-enhanced pedagogy, curriculum design, and faculty development. Highlights included projects supported by ADU's Teaching and Learning Grant, which examined AI's role in academic feedback and curriculum innovation, offering insights for improved educational outcomes.