The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) in the United Arab Emirates has established a partnership with the US-based Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) to improve the quality of nursing education within the country. This collaboration aims to align UAE nursing programs with international academic standards and supports the national healthcare sector’s objectives.

Through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), the two organizations will develop quality assurance policies for nursing programs in the UAE, enhancing their credibility and facilitating international accreditation. The agreement includes joint accreditation reviews, which will help ensure that higher education institutions (HEIs) meet global quality benchmarks, thus improving the career prospects for nursing graduates both locally and internationally.

A joint oversight committee will be formed with representatives from both the MoHESR’s Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) and ACEN to monitor the implementation of quality assurance measures and accreditation processes. The CAA will also partake in ACEN-led programmatic reviews of UAE nursing programs, ensuring they align with best global practices.

Prof. Amjad Mohd Qandil, Acting Director of the CAA at MoHESR, noted that the partnership showcases the Ministry’s commitment to enhancing health professions education and developing skilled nursing professionals to meet both local and global healthcare demands. He stated that the agreement would align UAE nursing programs with international accreditation standards, reinforcing the country’s position as a regional hub for medical education.

Dr. Kathy Chappell, Chief Executive Officer of ACEN, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, highlighting the shared commitment to elevating the quality of nursing education for all students. She stated that the resources offered by ACEN would greatly benefit students, educators, and institutions in the UAE, enhancing the overall educational landscape for nursing.

This agreement represents a crucial step toward realizing the UAE’s vision of an advanced, integrated education system that supports the growing national healthcare sector by providing qualified nursing professionals ready to address future health challenges.