Academic advisors have verified that the labor market has experienced significant transformations in recent years, profoundly impacting university majors. These changes have redirected students' focus towards emerging majors that were previously nonexistent, as a result of advancements in technology and the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning across various industries.
High school students were urged to select majors that align with the present and future demands of the job market.
Academic consultants and social specialists, namely Tariq Shukri, Qais Abdel-Wahab, Sarah Khaled, and Wadha Al-Balushi, have confirmed to "Emirates Today"that universities in the UAE are proactively studying the labor market's requirements in both the short and long term. Their aim is to anticipate future needs and align educational programs accordingly. Universities are currently prioritizing technological programs, data management, sustainability, emotional intelligence, and entrepreneurship to assure high employment rates for its graduates.
It was noted that in the past four years, universities have introduced new programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in international universities to meet the demands of the job market. These programs include robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), big data science, the Internet of Things, 3D printing, mechatronics, and security. The areas of interest include networking, alternative and renewable energy, e-learning, space technology, programming and computer information systems, design and visual communication, gene therapy, clinical pharmacy, and social innovation.
It was emphasized that specializations in medical, engineering, law, accounting, and education continue to be highly sought for in the job market due to their indispensability. However, the labor market trends have led to a shift in the prioritization of specialties, with a greater emphasis on exact and particular specializations in these disciplines that are in higher demand than general specializations for the general public. Academic advisors Ziad Sabouni, Manal Suleiman, and Azza Ibrahim have affirmed that the selection of a university major for students is determined by various factors, primarily the student's high school average, personal preferences and inclinations, as well as the demands of the job market. They emphasize the significance of providing professional guidance to students during high school, informing them about the available opportunities, and avoiding any coercion in their decision-making process. Students should be encouraged to pursue specific specializations based on their own interests and aptitudes, while the role of their families should be confined to providing direction and support rather than making decisions on their behalf. This approach helps students avoid potential failures and allows them to take ownership of their educational choices. In addition, individuals have the option to solicit assistance from advisors, such as a seasoned professional advisor or an academic advisor affiliated with a university.
According to academic advisor Hassan Al-Sirafi, selecting a major is a crucial decision for university students. Therefore, it is essential to consider various criteria and factors that influence this decision. The primary factors include the student's desire, passion, understanding of their abilities, and identification of their strengths and weaknesses. The factors to consider include the individual's nation of residence, the demand in the present labor market, and the availability of work possibilities in the specific field after completing their education. If the field of study he desires to pursue becomes stagnant, he must seek out the nearest alternative that will offer him viable employment prospects upon completion of his studies.
Nahla Omran, a registration officer at a university, emphasized the importance of informing the student and their family about the expenses associated with the chosen study program. It is crucial for the family to assess their financial capacity to sustain these costs throughout the student's entire academic journey, in order to prevent the student from discontinuing their studies due to lack of financial support.