Sheikh Hamdan Directs Launch of KHDA’s ‘Skills for Life’ Initiative to Equip Dubai Learners for Future Challenges
Starting in the 2026–27 academic year, the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has unveiled a new initiative titled ‘Skills for Life.’ This program aims to equip learners across Dubai with essential skills to adapt to the rapidly evolving global landscape. Under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, this initiative is set to address the diverse needs of learners, communities, and future workforces.
The ‘Skills for Life’ initiative embodies the philosophy of education as a lifelong journey, extending beyond traditional classroom settings. It is designed to support learners from early childhood through adulthood, focusing on the development of practical, personal, and social skills necessary for success in various aspects of life, including education and employment. This aligns with the objectives outlined in the Education 33 Strategy.
Launched during the Year of the Family in the UAE, ‘Skills for Life’ also resonates with the National Education Charter, introduced by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and the overarching goals of Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy (E33). The initiative aims to provide learners with the knowledge, skills, mindsets, and values essential for thriving in an ever-changing world, fostering a culture of lifelong learning and encouraging positive contributions to society.
Comprehensive Skill Development
The ‘Skills for Life’ initiative encompasses a wide array of life skills that will be integrated into educational environments and curricula tailored to meet the needs of learners at every stage. Key focus areas include healthy lifestyles, nutrition, financial literacy, social and relationship skills, mental resilience, digital competencies, sustainability, and daily life management.
This initiative is a response to a world that is increasingly interconnected and complex, driven by technological advancements. As these changes reshape how individuals live, learn, and work, the program aims to instill confidence, adaptability, resilience, and a sense of purpose in learners, preparing them to navigate change and seize new opportunities.
Moreover, ‘Skills for Life’ complements Dubai’s quality assurance standards and the emirate’s Academic and Career Guidance Policy, ensuring high-quality learning experiences throughout all educational phases. It empowers learners to make informed choices regarding their educational and career paths, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and experiences for effective future planning.
Emphasis on Future Readiness
The initiative also highlights the significance of well-being, sustainability, global citizenship, and readiness for future challenges. It supports learners in making informed decisions, fostering meaningful relationships, and contributing positively to their communities.
Recognizing that learning occurs in various contexts, ‘Skills for Life’ promotes collaboration among educational institutions, educators, parents, employers, and the broader community. This collaborative approach aims to create enriching learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom, supporting learners throughout their life journey.
Partnerships for Enhanced Learning
‘Skills for Life’ is aligned with several key initiatives under the Education 33 Strategy, designed to cultivate future-ready skills. These initiatives include Future Astrolabe, which enhances academic and career guidance in educational institutions; City of Students, aimed at enriching the educational experiences of all learners in Dubai; Life Camps, focused on developing essential life skills; Learn Anywhere, which seeks to elevate educational quality across all phases in accordance with international best practices; and Skills for Tomorrow, which continuously identifies the skills learners will need in the future.
The initiative is further bolstered by local and international partnerships aimed at enhancing youth leadership skills and expanding access to recognized non-formal learning pathways outside traditional academic frameworks.
For more information, visit the source: www.emirates247.com.
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Published on 2026-07-04 12:01:00 • By the Editorial Desk
