The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) successfully hosted the fifth annual ADEK Counselors Forum at Khalifa University on 30 April 2025. The forum welcomed over 300 career and university guidance counselors from public, private, and charter schools, alongside delegates from 16 embassies, 28 universities, and 10 top industry organisations – all to advance Career and University (CU) Guidance Counselors across Abu Dhabi, equipping them with the latest resources, trends, and strategies to effectively support students on exploring career interests and post-secondary pathways.
The forum was a practical demonstration of ADEK’s Career and University Guidance Policy, which has been in effect since 2002, and aims to ensure that every student in Abu Dhabi receives consistent, high-quality, and inclusive support starting as early as Grade 8/Year 9.
Advancing Guidance Support Through Collaboration
Participants explored key strategies to help students make informed decisions about their future. Sessions covered university admissions trends, scholarship opportunities, and tailored support for Students of Determination.
Crucially, the event emphasised the importance of involving parents early, building meaningful partnerships with universities and employers, and investing in continuous professional development for guidance staff.
Policy in Action: Building Future-Ready Students
Introduced in 2022, ADEK’s policy mandates every school to appoint a qualified Career and University (CU) Guidance Counselor. The Counselors Forum brought this vision to life by offering peer mentoring sessions, sector updates, and direct engagement with educational stakeholders.
The ADEK Counselors forum wasn’t just a gathering—it was a meaningful reflection of the policy in action, shaping a future where every student is supported to reach their full potential.
Industry and Government Partners Add Expertise
A diverse range of partner organisations shared tools, insights, and resources. These included the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, ADNOC, ADIA, College Board, British Council, Immerse Education, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).
These partnerships enabled attendees to gain global perspectives on university guidance while aligning efforts with Abu Dhabi’s economic and social development goals.
Empowering a Future of Possibility
The 2025 ADEK Counselors Forum stood out for its holistic approach. From strengthening cultural competence to enhancing inclusion practices, the event offered real, actionable takeaways. For counselors, it was not just a professional development opportunity—it was a reaffirmation of their vital role in shaping futures.
Education UAE at ADEK’s Counselors Forum
Education UAE was proud to take part in the Counselors Forum 2025, contributing to the dialogue on shaping effective guidance systems across Abu Dhabi’s schools.
“It was an honour to stand alongside leading voices at ADEK’s Counselors Forum. Events like these are vital for connecting globally, driving local impact, and shaping student wellbeing across the UAE.”
— Jane Elizabeth, Education UAE
The event reaffirmed the importance of collaborative platforms in strengthening school-to-career pathways and student wellbeing—a core focus area for Education UAE.
To learn more about ADEK’s policies and educational initiatives, visit https://www.adek.gov.ae
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