Families, educators, industry professionals, and representatives from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) gathered to celebrate the achievements of the first group of graduates from the Charter Schools programme. The event honoured the 369 students of Al Ghad Charter School’s Class of 2025, recognising them as pioneers who have set a new benchmark for educational success.
More Than Academic Achievement
This inaugural graduating class is equipped not only with academic qualifications but also with the practical experience needed to help drive the UAE’s progress. Their graduation represents more than the conclusion of their school years—it marks the beginning of new opportunities for personal development and professional growth.
Holistic Support and Lifelong Skills
Throughout their time in the Charter Schools system, these students benefitted from a wide range of tailored support services, including life skills workshops, IELTS preparation, career guidance, and customised university counselling. This holistic approach helped them build confidence, adaptability, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Real-World Exposure Through Strategic Partnerships
To ensure students were ready for real-world challenges, ADEK facilitated partnerships with organisations across different sectors. These included Tawazun, Al Jazira Club, Emirates NBD, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, the National Centre of Meteorology & Seismology, PureHealth, Abu Dhabi Stem Cells Center (ADSCC), Abu Dhabi Sports Council, and the Department of Culture and Tourism, among many others. Through these collaborations, students took part in workshops, training programmes, and immersive experiences, gaining valuable insight into diverse career paths.
Outstanding University Placements in the UAE and Beyond
Their efforts led to more than 1,000 university admission offers from prestigious institutions within the UAE and internationally. Locally, many students secured places at leading universities such as UAE University, Khalifa University, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence, Rabdan Academy, Abu Dhabi University, Zayed University, Fatima College of Health Sciences, Higher Colleges of Technology, Abu Dhabi Polytechnic, and Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy.
Global Recognition and Acceptance
Internationally, graduates were accepted by some of the world’s most respected universities. These include the University of Melbourne, the University of New South Wales, the University of Sydney, Monash University, the University of Amsterdam, the University of Auckland, Boston University, the University of Western Australia, the University of Adelaide, the University of Alberta, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Instituto Marangoni. Several of these institutions are ranked among the top 20 globally.
Sponsors and Community Support
This success was made possible thanks to the support of major sponsors, including ADNOC, the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA), Abu Dhabi Maritime Academy, ADQ, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MOHESR), NAFIS, the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA), and the Abu Dhabi Hospitality Academy–Les Roches. These organisations provided a range of scholarships and sponsorships to assist with tuition and other academic costs.
A Shared Achievement for Abu Dhabi
ADEK also acknowledged the invaluable role of families in shaping each student’s journey. This milestone reflects the dedication of parents, teachers, and the wider community in creating opportunities that empower young people to succeed.
Looking Ahead: Building the Future of the UAE
As the graduates of the Class of 2025 step into the next phase of their education or careers, they do so with a strong foundation of skills, a spirit of resilience, and a shared commitment to contributing to the continued growth and prosperity of the UAE.
