MoHESR and ACEN Collaborate to Enhance UAE Nursing Education Standards
The UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR), through its Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA), has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the US-based Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to enhance the quality of nursing education in the country. The partnership aims to align nursing programmes in UAE-based higher education institutions (HEIs) with international academic standards, strengthening the healthcare sector's workforce.
The MoU sets a framework for collaboration in developing quality assurance policies, ensuring UAE nursing programmes meet global accreditation standards. The agreement includes joint accreditation reviews to maintain high-quality benchmarks and support HEIs in securing international recognition, thereby enhancing graduates' career prospects locally and globally. Additionally, the partnership will facilitate knowledge exchange on innovative nursing education practices and curriculum integration with modern medical advancements.
A joint oversight committee, comprising representatives from both the CAA and ACEN, will be established to supervise the implementation of quality assurance measures and accreditation processes. The CAA will also participate in ACEN-led programmatic reviews of UAE nursing programmes to ensure their alignment with global best practices.
Prof. Amjad Mohd Qandil, Acting Director of CAA at MoHESR, emphasized that the collaboration reflects the Ministry’s commitment to advancing health professions education, developing skilled nursing professionals, and ensuring alignment with international accreditation standards. “This agreement strengthens the UAE’s position as a regional hub for medical education, offering opportunities for students, educators, and institutions to benefit from cutting-edge curricula, modern teaching methods, and global partnerships,” he stated.
Dr. Kathy Chappell, Chief Executive Officer of ACEN, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, highlighting its potential to elevate nursing education quality. “We are pleased to partner with MoHESR’s Commission for Academic Accreditation in jointly reviewing UAE nursing education programmes. This partnership will create valuable opportunities for students, educators, and institutions, reinforcing our shared commitment to advancing the nursing profession worldwide,” she said.
This agreement marks a pivotal step in realizing the UAE’s vision of developing an advanced, integrated education system that supports the expanding national healthcare sector. By fostering internationally accredited nursing programmes, the partnership aims to equip the UAE’s healthcare workforce with highly qualified professionals capable of addressing future health challenges.
