Entrepreneurship courses in the UAE are in high demand as universities have seen a 25-30 percent increase in enrolments over the last five years. The focus has shifted towards developing ‘job creators’ rather than ‘job seekers’. To nurture an entrepreneurial spirit, universities have incorporated entrepreneurship courses into their general education curriculum. Canadian University Dubai, for example, requires all students to complete at least two courses in entrepreneurship.
Dr. Dima Jamali, VP of Academic Affairs at Canadian University Dubai, highlighted the surge in student interest in entrepreneurship. The university’s programs are deeply integrated with the industry, providing students with real-world connections and opportunities. Collaborations with industry pioneers like Deloitte and UC Berkeley AMENA enhance the program’s effectiveness. Similarly, Amity University Dubai has also seen a rise in entrepreneurship programs, with efforts to support students from various disciplines in incubating their ideas.
Different universities in Dubai are making efforts to offer structured support to students interested in entrepreneurship. Amity University Dubai offers a course on Innovation and Entrepreneurship to all students, irrespective of their stream. The university’s incubation center assists students in setting up companies and provides legal support. Similarly, Gulf Medical University supports entrepreneurship among its students with the GMU Startup Lab, which aims to transform ideas into successful ventures.
Daffodil International University Ras Al Khaimah (DIU RAK), a new Bangladeshi university, will open in September 2024 with a focus on entrepreneurship programs. Dr. Sabur Khan, the university’s Founder and Chairman of Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of fostering entrepreneurship and creating job creators. The university aims to provide education that empowers students to become global leaders and innovators. Programs in real estate and tourism are also gaining popularity in response to the demand in the UAE and GCC markets.
College heads reiterated that the entrepreneurship courses aim to develop local talents that will contribute to the UAE and GCC economies. The UAE launched the Entrepreneurship Challenge as part of the Graduate Fund, targeting young entrepreneurs and SME founders. The initiative aims to foster an entrepreneurial spirit among university students and graduates. The Entrepreneurship Festival awarded prizes worth up to Dh2 million to winners with innovative ideas. The Ministry of Education expressed its commitment to supporting youth entrepreneurship through practical education.
Overall, the UAE is witnessing a growth in entrepreneurship courses and programs as universities aim to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the business world. With a focus on creating job creators and fostering innovation, universities are playing a crucial role in developing future leaders and innovators in the entrepreneurial landscape of the UAE.
