MoE Launches Phase Two of University Certificates Recognition System

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has launched the second phase of the 'University Certificates Recognition' system for degrees issued by foreign higher education institutions (HEIs).

This enhancement aims to streamline the recognition procedures for foreign qualifications, ensuring their validity, reliability, and integrity.

Building on the success of the first phase, launched last year, this development is part of the MoE's ongoing efforts to create an integrated and comprehensive educational system. These efforts align with the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme, significantly reducing customer complaints by 85% and boosting customer satisfaction to 90% as per the Customer Pulse rating in May. Additionally, the first phase decreased the number of documents required for certificate recognition by 85% and reduced transaction execution time by 50%, cutting the necessary steps in half.

Over 60,000 students from foreign HEIs are expected to benefit from the updated system in 2024, receiving faster, more efficient, and flexible digital services to facilitate their academic pursuits or entry into the labour market.

Dr. Hassan AlSayegh, Adviser to the Minister of Education and Head of the Customer Experience Transformation Committee at the MoE, highlighted the proactive steps taken to launch this second phase based on user feedback and ongoing development efforts. He noted the positive outcomes since last year, aligning with the Zero Government Bureaucracy Programme's objectives, and the Ministry's commitment to continuous improvement.

"The amendments in the second phase aim to facilitate recognition criteria for university certificates issued by foreign HEIs, allowing for more academic specialisations. This includes greater flexibility in standards, in line with international university rankings and the Ministry’s standards. Typically, as the global ranking of the HEI increases, the requirements for degree recognition decrease,"

said Dr. AlSayegh.

The new updates in the second phase reduce recognition requirements for specialisations including Architecture and Built Environment, Computer Science and Information Systems, Data Sciences, Natural Sciences, Education and Training, and Law and Legal Studies, encouraging students to pursue high-quality education at top-tier universities.

News Source: Emirates News Agency