Global And Local Experts Strengthen Student Career Guidance At ADEK's Forum In Abu Dhabi

This week, Khalifa University hosted the fifth installment of the Counselors Forum, an initiative by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK). This pivotal event gathered a diverse group of over 300 Career and University Guidance Counselors from various educational sectors including private, charter, and public schools.

The forum saw the presence of representatives from 16 embassies, 10 industry leaders, 28 universities and educational institutions, as well as numerous government and private entities. This collaboration aimed to bolster Career and University Guidance Counselors' abilities in Abu Dhabi, providing them with up-to-date resources, trends, and strategies to support students in navigating their career interests and further educational opportunities.

The forum's agenda was deeply rooted in the principles of ADEK's Career and University Guidance Policy, implemented in 2022. This policy underscores the importance of offering every student in Abu Dhabi consistent, top-quality, and inclusive guidance. Counselors were immersed in activities that mirrored the policy's objectives, such as peer mentoring, exploring university pathways, and engaging with local stakeholders.

At the forum, Aliaa Shubbar, Director of Abu Dhabi Scholarships, said, "Now in its fifth edition, the primary objective of the Abu Dhabi Counselors Forum 2025 is to advance career and university guidance across Abu Dhabi by equipping school counselors with the latest trends, tools, and strategies to effectively support students in navigating their post-secondary pathways."

She added that this effort is closely aligned with ADEK’s Career and University Guidance Policy, which serves as a foundational framework for ensuring consistent, inclusive, and high-quality guidance practices across all schools in the emirate. The policy outlines clear expectations and standards for the delivery of guidance services, empowering counselors to better prepare students for academic and career success.

"At the Abu Dhabi Scholarship Department under ADEK, we recognize that guidance counselors are vital partners within the scholarship ecosystem. They play a critical role in the early identification, preparation, and mentoring of students—well before the application stage for higher education," she noted.

The discussions spanned various topics, including support for students with diverse learning needs, government scholarships, and admissions trends. The emphasis was on the early appointment of qualified CU Guidance Counselors by grade 8/year 9, fostering parental engagement, establishing robust partnerships with universities and employers, and encouraging ongoing professional development for counselors.

To enhance these vital partnerships, the forum featured contributions from key organizations including the Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research, ADNOC, ADIA, College Board, the British Council, Immerse Education, and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). These entities played a significant role in the 2025 edition of the event, showcasing the collective effort towards advancing the educational landscape in Abu Dhabi.

The Counselors Forum 2025 was more than just a professional assembly; it was a tangible manifestation of ADEK's Career and University Guidance Policy. This initiative is paving the way for a future where every student is empowered to achieve their fullest potential.

Through the collaborative efforts of educators, counselors, and various organizations, the forum underscored the importance of equipping students with the knowledge and skills needed to explore their career aspirations and academic paths effectively. The event highlighted the collective commitment to ensuring that students receive the support and guidance necessary to navigate their futures with confidence.