Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has celebrated the graduation of 270 learners from its 16th cohort, highlighting the growing importance of future-ready skills as artificial intelligence and digital technologies reshape education and the workplace.
The graduation ceremony was held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai and President of HBMSU. Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg, Vice Chairperson of the university’s Board of Governors, attended the ceremony.
Graduates Prepared for an AI-Driven Workplace
The 16th cohort graduated at a time when rapid technological development and artificial intelligence are changing the way people learn, work and lead.
The university said the changing environment underlines the need for professionals who can combine academic knowledge with future-ready skills, while remaining capable of continuous learning, adaptation and innovation.
The cohort included graduates from a broad range of academic programmes, as well as research and doctoral programmes. The university said this diversity reflects its wider academic ecosystem and its focus on preparing talent for changes in the labour market and the knowledge economy.
Keynote Focuses on Future of Education and Leadership
Dr. Corrie Jonn Block delivered the keynote address, focusing on the transformation of education, employment and leadership in the age of artificial intelligence.
He highlighted the changing relationship between technology and careers, noting that professionals are increasingly building their careers alongside AI.
Block also discussed HBMSU’s experience in smart learning and the growing role of AI in leadership and the workplace. At the same time, he stressed that technological capabilities need to be balanced with human qualities such as trust, connection, courage, curiosity, the ability to inspire and a strong sense of purpose.
He encouraged graduates to view graduation as the beginning of continued learning and professional development rather than the conclusion of their educational journey.
University Emphasises Investment in Future Talent
Mattar Al Tayer, Chairman of the HBMSU Board of Governors, said the university continues to develop an innovative and future-focused education model centred on investing in people and developing their capabilities.
He highlighted advances in AI and digital transformation as key forces requiring future generations to develop adaptability, innovation and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Al Tayer said the 16th cohort represents a new generation of qualified national talent capable of turning their academic knowledge and skills into practical contributions across their sectors and communities.
Knowledge and Innovation at the Centre of National Development
Dr. Raja Easa Al Gurg said the graduation reflects a broader vision that places knowledge, skills and values at the centre of preparing people for the future.
She praised the graduates for succeeding within the university’s flexible smart-learning model and expressed confidence that their skills would help them navigate AI-driven changes.
She also highlighted the graduates’ potential to turn challenges into opportunities and ideas into practical achievements that can contribute to the UAE’s competitiveness and sustainable development.
Graduation Marks the Start of Lifelong Learning
Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU, said the graduation ceremony marks a new stage in the learners’ development.
He emphasised that as AI reshapes education and employment, graduation can no longer be viewed as the end of learning. Instead, universities have a responsibility to prepare individuals who can continue developing their skills, adapt to change and use technology responsibly.
According to Al Awar, HBMSU's educational philosophy is based on the belief that learning should keep pace with the future and continue beyond the completion of a formal qualification.
HBMSU Advances Smart and Flexible Learning Model
The graduation of the 16th cohort also reflects HBMSU’s continued emphasis on smart, flexible and lifelong learning.
The university’s model focuses on developing future-ready capabilities, enabling learners to adapt to technological changes and make effective use of emerging technologies.
By extending education beyond formal qualifications, HBMSU aims to help graduates continue developing their skills and transform knowledge and technology into practical value and impact.
The university said this approach supports the development of talent capable of contributing to the knowledge economy and advancing the UAE’s ambitions for a more innovative, competitive and sustainable future.
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