Page 141 - MBRF PR REPORT - MAY 2025

5/19/25, 10:16 AM "Global education is essential to building a skilled, resilient workforce"
The panel featured Dr. Wes Harry, Senior Advisor at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge
Foundation (MBRF), Dr. Eesa Mohammed Al Bastaki, President of the University of Dubai; and Saima
Hasan, Head of Marketing at RIAA Barker Gillette Global Alliance and University of London alumna.

Education for the future economy

Speaking at the event, Alistair Jarvis CBE, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Partnerships and Governance) at the

University of London, said: “In an increasingly connected and digital world, accessible global education
is essential to building a skilled, resilient workforce. We’re proud to support the UAE’s ambitious goals by
providing a flexible model that empowers learners to stay rooted in their community while earning

internationally recognised qualifications.”

Dr. Eesa Al Bastaki noted the growing importance of cross-border collaboration and stackable
credentials: “Global partnerships in education are no longer optional – they’re essential.
Microcredentials, dual degrees, and flexible learning options are shaping the way our students learn and
contribute to the economy.”

Global knowledge meets local delivery

The discussion highlighted the value of Recognised Teaching Centres (RTCs), the University of
London’s local partners in the UAE that support students with face-to-face learning while maintaining UK
academic standards. The model provides UAE-based students with access to law, business, and
computer science programmes designed by top-tier British universities.

Dr. Wes Harry, representing MBRF, spoke on the importance of future-ready skills, referencing the
Global Knowledge Index and the Future Skills Academy as tools helping education systems adapt to
evolving economic needs. He said: “Skills development isn’t just about what we need today—it’s about
anticipating the future. Institutions like the University of London play a vital role in bringing global
capabilities into local contexts.”

Alumni impact and international recognition

The event also celebrated the achievements of the University’s growing alumni community in the UAE,
including barrister Hamna Zain, who was recently recognised as a finalist in the 2025 British Council
Study UK Alumni Awards held in Dubai on 14 May. Her recognition reflects the impact of globally

educated UAE-based professionals who are contributing to legal advancement, public service, and
international collaboration.

With more than 1,500 alumni and students in the UAE, the University of London continues to expand its
regional footprint through its UAE-based RTCs: University of Dubai, Kaplan MENA, Amity University
Dubai, and Britts Imperial College.

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