ADU promotes smoother transition between secondary school and higher education

Abu Dhabi University (ADU) hosted the Chancellor’s Round Table Discussion at the ADU campus in Khalifa City. Attended by Principals and representatives of more than 30 public and private secondary schools across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, the discussion acknowledged various challenges faced by secondary school students during their transition into higher education and the university lifestyle.

The round table, titled “Making the Connection: Together we Can”, was headed by ADU Chancellor, Dr. Nabil Ibrahim and aimed at addressing the obstacles that students face between secondary school education and higher education. Representatives of schools engaged in discussions to find solutions that lessen the effect of this shift on students’ academic performance and overall achievement in their university’s academic programs or co-curricular activities.

ADU Provost, Dr. James Mackin said, “Students looking to enrol at Abu Dhabi University can expect an unbeatable combination of international standards, quality education, numerous career opportunities, a vibrant student lifestyle, scholarships, support and financial aid, student-centred approach to governance and excellent facilities. The university is invested in the ability of its students to bridge the lifestyle gap by utilising all the resources available to them.”

Dr. Mohammed Alzyoud, Chair of Educational Programs at ADU called upon attendees to identify those areas and factors that needed improvement, such as: professional development opportunities for teachers; improving the English language skills of graduating students; academic advice and career guidance counselling for students at school; and student motivational activities that promote a goal-directed attitude towards education. 

ADU has also offered to reach out to schools and extend its services in order to address these challenges effectively. Some of the areas that ADU would be able to contribute to are career counselling, teachers' professional development, and students' language skills. 

Since its inception in 2000, Abu Dhabi has achieved many milestones, including accreditation of all its academic programs, the launch of postgraduate programs, and most recently an ISO 9001 certification. By 2013, it also hopes to achieve international accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools in the United States. The University currently offers 24 undergraduate majors and 11 postgraduate programs leading to master’s degrees and a Doctor of Business Administration. 

This is the first of a series of meetings that will take place to further this initiative. Attending guests toured the campus and explored its superb facilities, some also expressing their interest in utilizing the extensive library and state-of-the-art labs. A business lunch allowed visiting school principals to meet and greet with ADU management and deans.