Dubai's Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has rolled out FutuReady Standards, a framework meant to guide academic and career preparation across the emirate's schools from early years through graduation.
The framework — formally called The Dubai Standards for Academic Guidance and Career Readiness in Educational Institutions — sets nine standards for private schools to follow in building out their guidance programmes, with the goal of helping students make informed choices about their academic and career paths.
It ties into Dubai's Economic Agenda (D33) and Education 33 (E33) Strategy, both aimed at equipping students with the adaptability and skills needed for high-growth sectors.
Under the standards, students should get structured guidance, digital and life skills training, and real-world learning exposure. The framework also pushes for professional leadership within schools, family involvement, use of AI and other future-facing tools, and guidance tailored to include students of determination.
Dr Amna Almaazmi, CEO of Growth and Human Development at KHDA, said many future jobs don't exist yet, so guidance now needs to go beyond picking subjects or universities — it should help students handle uncertainty and build transferable skills across their education.
KHDA has published handbooks for schools and higher education institutions covering expected practices in areas like career guidance programmes, future skills, experiential learning, labour market insights, family engagement, and AI-enabled and inclusive support. Private schools get three years to implement the standards, and KHDA will run workshops to help schools apply them.
KHDA has also partnered with the National Career Development Association (NCDA) on research and professional development to support the rollout. Dr Brett Anderson, President-Elect of NCDA, said the collaboration reflects KHDA's push to build guidance practices that help students prepare for meaningful futures.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
