Registration Now Open For Accredited Vocational Diploma In Childhood Development At NACD

The National Academy for Childhood Development (NACD) has begun accepting applications for its Accredited Vocational Diploma in Childhood Development. Interested candidates can apply until 10th May 2025. This programme, accredited by the National Qualifications Centre, has consistently attracted significant interest, marking its third year of operation. Over the past two years, more than 13,000 applications were received, with only 200 candidates admitted through a selective process involving interviews and assessments.

Emirati youth have shown increasing interest in this diploma, with over 70 Emiratis enrolled so far. This trend highlights the growing recognition of childhood development as a crucial career path that aligns with national development goals. The programme aims to prepare a new generation of skilled caregivers equipped to support children from birth to 18 years old.

The diploma spans 18 months and is divided into two phases. The first phase involves 12 months of theoretical and practical learning at the Academy, organised around four core themes. These themes include "I Grow," focusing on children's physical, psychological, and social development; "I Learn," which enhances early learning capabilities; "I Can," aimed at building social and life skills; and "Hence, I’m Proud," which instils national identity and proficiency in the Arabic language.

The second phase consists of a six-month internship at leading partner institutions such as the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination (ZHO), and the Family Care Authority (FCA). This internship provides students with opportunities to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

The programme is conducted entirely in Arabic, emphasising the importance of the Arabic language in childhood development while adhering to international educational standards. All accepted students receive full scholarships along with a monthly allowance, allowing them to focus entirely on their academic pursuits without financial concerns.

Registration for the Academy’s third cohort is now open via the Academy’s official website and the NAPO centralised digital platform. This announcement comes after the successful graduation of 80 students, many of whom are poised to join prominent institutions across the UAE.

With inputs from WAM