Higher educational qualifications key to post-pandemic job market
As the UAE makes a visible shift towards a knowledge-based economy, society is increasingly viewing colleges and universities as engines of local and regional economic growth, especially in a post-pandemic era. Institutions of higher education provide jobs, purchase local goods and services and supply skilled graduates who may settle in the region and contribute to its productivity.
Veteran educationists in the country highlight how higher education is a great way for students to gain in-depth knowledge of a specific subject area, while also contributing to overall career success and progression.
Dr Vikas Nand Kumar Batheja, co-founder and director of Capital University College, opined: “Employers look for professionals who have a natural flair for multi-tasking; more like — jack of all trades. Additionally, companies also want people who are not just well-experienced but also are backed up with relevant and updated knowledge. This is where higher education comes in and supports its corporate journey. With the pandemic, employees are expected to be intellectually sound and have an international perspective to business which is balanced when students opt to pursue part-time or online master’s that are internationally recognised and accredited.”
Experts feel the pandemic has only accelerated the need for professionals to opt for degrees that will potentially future-proof their employment opportunities. Dr Slim Saidi, associate professor of Industrial Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Dubai, said: “Higher education is all the more relevant today as many areas are to be researched, redesigned and rethought. The education of the future needs to be augmented and adapted to the contexts of the future; where the professional has to still master the analytical and technical skills which will become foundational literacies.”
Academicians underline students also learn discipline, inter-personal skills and time management. Dr Vajahat Hussain, Amity Education ME CEO, said: “Mastering skills and understanding new concepts plays a big role in creating an impact in the world. Through internships and research, postgraduate students get the opportunity to understand more about the inner workings of an organisation and gain knowledge about different fields. It is a global phenomenon that the cohort stays together and an Alumni network eventually brings great value to the student’s career and business.”