Abu Dhabi's Tuition-Free School Sees A Whopping 25% Jump In Enrolment In 2023
In an era where digital skills are increasingly paramount, 42 Abu Dhabi stands out, setting stage for aspiring coders. This innovative coding school, launched in 2020 under the auspices of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and the Ghadan 21 accelerator programme, is on a mission to cultivate a future-ready workforce. With its tuition-free model, the school has become a key player in the tech education landscape, witnessing a surge in student enrolment by over 25% in 2023 compared to the previous year.
As of now, 42 Abu Dhabi has welcomed 758 students into its fold, including 213 Emirati students. This notable increase, amounting to approximately 26.92% from 2022 to 2023, underscores the escalating demand for coding expertise in the region. The school's unique learning approach, which emphasizes peer-to-peer and gamified learning, further sets it apart.
The upcoming May intake is poised to introduce the second boot camp, known as 'Piscine’. This 25-day intensive program, starting on April 29, is designed to rigorously assess candidates' programming abilities, determination, and dedication. Marcos Muller Habig, the acting CEO of 42 Abu Dhabi, highlighted this milestone as a reflection of the school's commitment to addressing the needs of a rapidly changing digital landscape and equipping individuals with essential tech skills.
To apply, candidates need not have prior coding experience or academic qualifications but must be at least 18 years old with a knack for adaptation and teamwork. The application process involves completing an online assessment dubbed the 'Game’, which tests logic and memory, followed by an in-person briefing session. Successful candidates from the Piscine will then join 42 Abu Dhabi's esteemed coding program.
The school's strategic partnerships with leading entities across various industries, including Mubadala Investment Company and Microsoft, facilitate internship and job opportunities for students. Emirati talents benefit from sponsorship opportunities and stipends, ensuring a supportive learning environment. Upon completing the program's core requirements and a six-month internship, students earn a diploma in software development recognized by the National Qualification Center (NQC) in the UAE.
With such initiatives, 42 Abu Dhabi is not just educating the next generation of coders but is actively shaping the future digital landscape of the region. As the school gears up for its latest boot camp, the tech community watches with anticipation, eager to meet Abu Dhabi's forthcoming digital pioneers.
