Abu dhabi: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has issued the Guide for Governance of Work Experience for Students in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), which includes universities and vocational training institutions. This guide aims to integrate work experience as a fundamental component of the academic journey, enhancing the connection between theoretical learning and practical application to better prepare students for the labor market while preventing improper work experience practices.
According to Emirates News Agency, Taif Mohamed Alamiri, Acting Assistant Under-Secretary for the Higher Education Regulation and Governance Sector, emphasized the guide’s role in providing a clear, practical framework for all stakeholders involved in students’ work experience. This framework aligns with the highest standards of quality and governance, aiding HEIs in designing more effective programs. It also offers work experience providers a framework for collaboration with higher education institutions, giving students hands-on experience vital for their future careers.
Alamiri further highlighted that the guide underscores MoHESR’s commitment to global best practices in educational governance. Its implementation will be closely monitored through field visits and ongoing evaluation in cooperation with local and federal partners, ensuring compliance with approved criteria. With work experience bridging education and employment, ensuring its quality is deemed a national priority and an investment in the future.
The guide establishes a unified national framework for work experience in HEIs, delineating the roles of institutions, providers, and students while enhancing oversight and quality assurance. It also provides operational manuals and templates to assist universities in designing effective, high-quality work experience programs that equip students with essential skills.
According to the guide, HEIs are required to develop clear plans and appoint supervisors to oversee students and evaluate their performance. Work experience providers must ensure a safe, supportive, and professional environment, assigning qualified mentors and continually improving their programs. Students are expected to demonstrate professionalism, attend regularly, and document their work experience activities in an officially certified record.
MoHESR will oversee the implementation through field monitoring and periodic unannounced visits to higher education institutions and work experience providers, in collaboration with local and federal partners such as the Ministry of Emiratisation and Human Resources. These measures are in place to ensure compliance with standards, prevent improper practices, and drive continuous improvement of work experience programs.