The UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR) has recently introduced new conditions for recognizing various higher education degrees, including those obtained through distance learning and online programs.
This shift is set to impact students pursuing both domestic and international higher education, urging them to stay abreast of the nation’s evolving accreditation policies to avoid setbacks.
Under the new rules, some online and distance learning programs may now receive conditional approval, but not all programs are recognized. Specific vocational certificates and specialized training programs remain outside the scope of MOHESR’s recognition, especially those not associated with formal academic study.
Education experts emphasize the importance of being proactive when selecting educational programs. Varun Jain, Founder and CEO of UniHawk, advises students to regularly consult official communications from the Ministry to remain updated on policy changes and accreditation standards. He further suggests verifying the accreditation status of foreign institutions to ensure smoother degree recognition. Jain also recommends opting for blended learning programs that combine online and on-campus experiences, which align better with MOHESR’s recognition criteria.
However, Jain cautioned that while remote learning offers flexibility and affordability, students may miss out on the broader international exposure and networking opportunities that in-person campus experiences provide.
“International exposure is essential for building diverse perspectives and engaging in hands-on learning experiences, which are pivotal in certain fields,”
Jain added.
A key aspect of the new guidelines is the MOHESR's refusal to review applications for vocational certificates that are not part of formal academic programs. These include certificates from short-term training courses, academic documents tied to broader study programs, and degrees awarded through exclusive international student programs.
Rema Menon Vellat, Director of Counselling Point Training and Development, emphasized the need for wider dissemination of these changes. She stressed that education bodies like KHDA, ADEK, and SPEA should inform all stakeholders about the impact of these updated policies.
“Students should be aware that enrolling in non-recognized courses could waste their efforts. Consultants, counselors, and educational entities must understand the repercussions of such decisions,”
Menon said.
This change coincides with the renewed accreditation of several university programs by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) at MOHESR. Dr. Sameera Al Mulla, Acting Director of CAA, highlighted that ensuring the alignment of higher education standards with the UAE’s vision for a knowledge-driven economy is crucial for the country’s future workforce.
“At CAA, we are committed to supporting higher education institutions in becoming more agile and competitive to equip graduates with the skills required to excel in the workforce,”
Dr. Al Mulla stated.
As students prepare for the next academic cohort, staying informed and selecting accredited programs will be crucial to ensure their educational efforts align with national standards and future career prospects.
News Source: Khaleej Times
