Abu Dhabi University launches education research grant for UAE universities

Abu Dhabi University has launched a new grant to support educational research in the UAE, announcing the initiative at its third International Conference on Education in Al Ain.

The Ali Bin Harmal Educational Research Grant was unveiled during the two-day conference, which brought together education leaders, researchers, policymakers and practitioners to discuss teaching and learning in a changing technological and employment landscape.

According to the university’s announcement, the grant’s first phase will involve researchers from Abu Dhabi University and Liwa University. The initiative is scheduled to expand to eligible universities across the UAE from the 2027–28 academic year.

The announcement did not specify the grant’s funding allocation, individual award amounts or the number of researchers expected to receive support.

Conference features 141 research papers

Held under the patronage of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the conference featured 141 research papers distributed across 12 thematic tracks.

Its theme was “Designing Pedagogical Approaches for Future Learners: Challenges and Opportunities”. Topics included artificial intelligence and digital transformation, inclusive education, sustainability and collaboration between industry and academia.

The programme also included four keynote addresses, a dialogue on the future of universities in the age of AI, a discussion on Generation Z and the future of work, panel sessions and five professional development workshops.

More than 36 speakers, moderators and panellists from universities, education authorities, schools, industry and professional organisations participated in the event, the university said.

Discussions examine AI and changing learner needs

Sessions addressed the use of AI in teaching and learning, preparation for future skills and the importance of inclusive approaches to education. Participants also discussed how institutions could respond to changing learner needs while integrating emerging technologies responsibly.

The conference featured projects supported by Abu Dhabi University’s Teaching and Learning Grant for 2025–26. These examined the use of AI to strengthen academic feedback and help students understand complex subjects, alongside approaches to curriculum design, scientific reasoning and critical thinking.

The university said the projects explored ways to apply research to teaching practice across academic disciplines. The announcement did not provide detailed findings or quantitative assessments of their effectiveness.

University highlights research and teaching initiatives

The conference also provided a platform for researchers and practitioners to present case studies and approaches related to curriculum development, assessment, student success, faculty development, experiential learning and industry–academia partnerships.

Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University and conference adviser, said the discussions highlighted the need to approach educational change with ambition and responsibility, keeping inclusion, human values and practical impact in view as AI reshapes how knowledge is created and applied.

Dr Mohammad Fteiha, conference chair, director of Al Ain Campus and director of the Center for Faculty Development and Learning Innovation, said the event explored practical approaches that educators and institutions could take forward in response to technological change, evolving learner needs and workforce demands.

The conference was supported by Viory as silver sponsor, while the Abu Dhabi Convention and Exhibition Bureau served as cultural and destination partner. An optional tour of Al Ain was scheduled for international participants on Oct 9.