The UAE Ministry of Education (MoE) launched the 2025 Summer Abroad Programme on July 26, which will see 270 high-achieving Grade 10 and 11 public school students travel to leading global universities and research institutions for hands-on learning experiences.

Held across July and August, the programme is part of the Ministry’s broader strategy to prepare students for the evolving demands of the 21st-century economy, reflecting the UAE’s vision to empower youth with the knowledge, skills and global exposure needed to contribute meaningfully to national development. The initiative will offer more than just international travel. The programme will provide high-level training and educational experiences across a diverse range of institutions and disciplines, giving students an early opportunity to engage with cutting-edge topics such as artificial intelligence, leadership, and entrepreneurship.

Her Excellency Sarah Al Amiri, Minister of Education, underlined the programme’s long-term impact and shared, “The Summer Abroad Programme offers students hands-on training at top international scientific institutes, fostering academic growth, personal development, and broader cultural and scientific perspectives.”

This year’s cohort will be immersed in global innovation ecosystems across six countries: Singapore, China, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and Malaysia. Each location has been selected for its strong research landscape, technological advancement, and leadership in emerging sectors. Through field visits, customised training, and peer collaboration, students will gain direct insight into global academic cultures and industry practices.

Students of determination are also part of this year’s programme, who will participate in specialised experiences in Japan and South Korea, supported by a team of 29 trained academic supervisors who will accompany them throughout their journey.

Beyond academic exposure, the programme also intends to help students make informed career decisions, develop a global mindset, build long-term knowledge networks, and strengthen core competencies like adaptability, communication, and problem-solving.

The Summer Abroad Programme is one of several initiatives launched by the Ministry in recent years to globalise the UAE’s public education system. It complements national reforms that seek to foster innovation, entrepreneurial thinking, and digital fluency from an early age.

Source: Zawya