Gulf News Edufair Day 3: Record turnout makes 6th edition an all-out success!

An amazing day, a fantastic event! As the biggest edition of Gulf News Edufair comes to a close after three successful days, complete with panel discussions, fireside chats and presentations revolving around trends in the education sector, one thing is certain: Edufair has proven to be among the most anticipated events in the UAE education sector calendar.

From students and parents to academics, education analysts and stakeholders, the response is unanimous - Gulf News Edufair is a benchmark for regional education exhibitions, setting the bar for education-related events in the UAE and region.

Over 15 panel discussions and fireside chats, 30+ prestigious universities, 8,000+ visitors, all in just 3 days - the numbers say it all.

Kudos to all Gulf News Value Partners, shout-out to our Platinum Sponsor, Y-Axis, Banking Partner, HSBC, Knowledge Partner, ACCA and Financial Support Partner, Phoenix Financial Training, as well as Exhibitors, Students, Teachers, Visitors and our Venue Hosts, The H Hotel Dubai for making Gulf News Edufair such an amazing success story.

Here's looking forward to the next!

It's just an hour to closing but visitors continue to flock the halls at Gulf News Edufair. The turnkey exhibition is a massive success, and in more ways than one!

It's all about continuous skill development if you are looking out for career growth and adapting to new world requirements and opportunity, say representatives from ACCA, Phoenix Financial Training and My Learning. At the final session, on the final day of Gulf News Edufair.

"Today’s students are much more aware and conscious of lifelong learning, which is about adapting and building the right skill set. While many parents still emphasize getting high grades, the availability of information has shifted the focus towards lifelong learning. It’s increasingly becoming embedded in the minds of the next generation," says Taher Kapasi, Head of Education ACCA, Eurasia and Middle East.

"From my experience as a student and now as a trainer, universities have significantly changed their approach to lifelong learning. Back in my day, you either attended university in person or studied online. Today, the concept of remote learning has evolved, with pre-recorded videos and platforms like LinkedIn offering courses that students can access anytime. For example, at Phoenix, we not only teach financial curriculum but also offer workshops on using spreadsheets, writing CVs, and other skills that enhance workplace readiness," says Mustufa Ali, Associate Lecturer, Phonenix Financial Training.

"Academics are important, but lifelong learning is a mindset that needs to be adopted across families, schools, universities, and organisations. Universities are not just looking for high grades but also at how students apply their academic knowledge practically. With AI and other technologies, it’s crucial to upskill continually. Universities are adapting to this need by fostering environments that encourage experiential learning," says Natasha Parikh, CEO/ Career Counselor, My Learning Curve.

"The benefits of a professional qualification include the flexibility to complete them at your own pace, global recognition, and the ability to apply concepts directly in the workplace. Moreover, you can work while studying, which is a significant advantage. Choosing the right qualification is crucial. For example, if you're more inclined towards accounting, ACCA might be the right choice. If you prefer financial management, you might opt for a qualification focused on that. Employability is another advantage. Professional qualifications are valued by top organisations, and employers often prefer candidates with these credentials," says Ahmed Khan, Lecturer, Phoenix Financial Training, at the second session at Gulf News Edufair, on the topic Professional Finance Qualification being a sensible career pathway for school leavers.

Emirati parent Mohammed Jassem, visiting Gulf News Edufair with his son, Abdullah Jassem, a Grade 10 student of Dubai International Private School, is excited with the options on offer at the turnkey education exhibition

A short presentation on the advantages of Professional Finance Qualification and how it qualifies as a sensible career pathway for school leavers, presented by Phoenix Financial Trading

Overseas education presents a positive push in terms of job prospects and professional growth, believe panelists representing Qadri International Educational Consultancy, Horizon Scholar, Student RoomStay and Gyanberry, during the first panel discussion on Career Impact, Day 3, Edufair.

More than 1,000 courses and degrees on offer from Edufair exhibitors wow parents and students alike. READ MORE HERE

Panelists representing Qadri International Educational Consultancy, Horizon Scholar, Student RoomStay and Gyanberry to elaborate on how overseas education essentially enhances job prospects as well as professional growth overall.

GN Commercial Publishing Team - Chiranti Sengupta, Krita Coelho, Priya Mathew, Haseeb Akhlaq, Sankar Sri Pillai