Including the quality of practical training among the indicators for evaluating the performance of universities

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research revealed the inclusion of the quality of practical training provided in higher education institutions within the national framework for evaluating output-based performance, so that it becomes one of the main indicators for evaluating its performance, noting that it has developed a guide for practical training that sets applicable standards for supervision, follow-up and evaluation.

The Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Regulatory and Governance of Higher Education and Scientific Research Sector, Taif Mohammed Al Amiri, confirmed to Emirates Today that the Ministry seeks to enhance its quality and link it to the reality of the labor market and its requirements, by unifying operational models and mechanisms for supervision, evaluation and follow-up, in a way that ensures consistency between academic institutions and training bodies, and consolidates the principle of partnership in preparing national competencies.

She added that this falls within the framework of a comprehensive system led by the Ministry, to consolidate the principles of governance and quality in various aspects of the higher education system.

Regarding the unification of standards for evaluating practical training programs, despite the differences in higher education institutions, their financial and technical capabilities, and the efficiency and diversity of their academic staff, Al Amiri pointed out the Ministry’s keenness for the measurement system to include qualitative and quantitative indicators, such as the quality of training plans, student satisfaction and training destinations, and post-graduation employment levels. She said: “These indicators are linked to the national framework for evaluating the performance of higher education institutions based on outcomes, to ensure continuous improvement and transparency in performance.”

Al Amiri stressed that the Ministry is following up on universities’ commitment to the new practical training standards through integrated field oversight mechanisms, including periodic and surprise visits, in cooperation with the relevant local and federal authorities, evaluating training plans, and reviewing approved official records that document the students’ experience, in addition to scrutinizing the quality of implementation, and correcting any observations or deficiencies as soon as they are spotted, to prevent any formal or irresponsible practices. And ensuring continuous improvement of training programs, pointing to the adoption of an impact measurement system, which includes indicators such as the quality of training plans, satisfaction of students and training entities, and employment levels after graduation, in a way that enhances accountability and transparency.

She stated that the Ministry will take strict corrective measures against universities that do not comply with the provisions of the ministerial decision or the standards of the practical training guideline, and oblige the violating parties to take immediate corrective steps, and address the observations that are monitored during field visits or periodic reviews. In the event of repeated violations, or the formal nature of practical training is proven, the Ministry imposes direct penalties, up to the withdrawal of the license, after taking the necessary measures to protect the rights of students.

Benefits

The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has confirmed that the quality of the educational experience gives students a deeper understanding of the nature of the realistic work environment, and links theoretical knowledge with applied experience, as it allows them to engage in real experiences under integrated academic and professional supervision, which helps them develop their job skills and refine their readiness for the labor market.

On the other hand, the labor market benefits from qualified and experienced national cadres capable of immediately engaging in productive work environments, thanks to training programs and clear standards that regulate the relationship between universities and training bodies.