Page 153 - MBRF PR REPORT - MAY 2025

5/19/25, 10:17 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.

A shared vision for education and innovation
As the UAE aims to build one of the world’s most future-ready economies by 2031, global
education models like the University of London’s — which offer flexibility, academic rigour,

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