Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR)'s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US-based Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN). This agreement aims to enhance the quality of nursing education and ensure alignment with academic standards in higher education institutions (HEIs) across the UAE, in alignment with the national healthcare sector goals.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU sets up a framework for cooperation in developing quality assurance policies for UAE nursing programmes, thereby enhancing their credibility and international accreditation. It includes conducting joint accreditation reviews to uphold quality benchmarks and support HEIs in securing global accreditation. This move is expected to boost the career prospects of graduates both locally and internationally.
The agreement also encourages knowledge exchange on innovations in nursing education and the integration of modern medical practices into curricula. Prof. Amjad Mohd Qandil, Acting Director of CAA at MoHESR, emphasized that the partnership reflects the ministry's commitment to advancing health professions education and ensuring the development of skilled nursing professionals to meet healthcare needs.
Prof. Qandil noted that the agreement aligns UAE nursing programmes with international accreditation standards, reinforcing the country's status as a regional hub for medical education. He highlighted that it strengthens academic quality assurance and promotes education and research collaboration between UAE-based HEIs and global counterparts, establishing the UAE as a leading hub for health education. The agreement also reflects the country's commitment to advancing higher education by providing opportunities for students, educators, and institutions to benefit from the latest curricula, learning and teaching methods, technological advancements in education, and international partnerships.
Dr. Kathy Chappell, Chief Executive Officer of ACEN, stated, "We share a commitment to elevating the quality of nursing education for all students and appreciate the opportunities that this partnership will offer for our respective organisations. We are excited that the resources of the ACEN will be available for students, educators, and institutions within the UAE and look forward to continued dialogue on behalf of the global nursing profession."