In an inspiring showcase of talent and skill, the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) recently honoured 130 outstanding students who excelled in the second edition of the “HCT Skills Competition 2026”. This initiative attracted over 800 participants vying for recognition across 39 applied and specialised skills in seven academic fields. The competition aims to transform academic knowledge into measurable practical abilities, thereby enhancing students’ readiness for the labour market.
A Growing Competitive Landscape
The final ceremony took place at the HCT campus in Dubai’s Academic City, following a series of competitive events held in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This year’s competition witnessed a significant increase in participation, rising approximately 60% compared to the inaugural edition in 2025, which saw around 500 competitors. The number of skills categories also expanded from 37 to 39, broadening the participation base and giving more students the opportunity to test their capabilities against real-world professional challenges.
Investing in Young Talents
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship and SMEs and Chairman of the HCT, emphasised the critical importance of investing in young national talents. He stated, “This competition highlights the need for an educational environment that enables students to develop their potential and prepare for future demands.” The rapid transformations in job nature and the skills required elevates the significance of a blended educational model that combines academic knowledge with practical application, equipping students to confidently tackle professional challenges.
Measuring Learning Outcomes
Dr. Faisal Al Ayyan, Director of HCT, remarked that the competition is part of the institution’s efforts to enrich the educational experience. It provides students with practical opportunities to test their skills in competitive settings that simulate professional life requirements. He noted that the value of the competition extends beyond mere competition and victory; it plays a crucial role in assessing learning outcomes and identifying strengths as well as areas for improvement in students’ skill sets. “This, in turn, supports continuous development of academic programmes and strengthens their relevance to labour market needs,” he added.
Comprehensive Evaluation and Feedback
Participants’ performances were evaluated by a panel of experts and judges from HCT and partner institutions, based on established assessment criteria from both “Emirati Skills” and “Global Skills”, including specific practical requirements for each field. The competitions culminated in the recognition of 130 successful students, with Dr. Al Ayyan presenting certificates of appreciation to the winners, in the presence of college leadership, academic and administrative staff, and representatives from partner organisations.
Industry Collaboration for Future Success
The competition was supported by seven entities from industrial, technological, and educational sectors, further reinforcing the connection between applied education and the needs of economic and professional sectors. Dr. Nasser Hamid Al Naqbi, Secretary-General of the Defence Capabilities Development Council, stated that developing advanced sectors begins with preparing competent talents capable of leading them. He highlighted that the competition provides a platform for young talents to apply their knowledge in practical environments that promote innovation and excellence.
Fostering National Talent
Sanaa Al Dhaoumi, Chief Executive Officer of Human Resources and Institutional Effectiveness at EDGE, remarked that investing in national talents is a core focus of their strategy. She noted that collaboration with HCT aims to equip young Emiratis with the practical skills and experiences essential for success in their career paths and in leading advanced technology sectors. Niall Harris, Senior Vice President for Higher Education at McGraw Hill Education, added that the competition enabled students to apply their knowledge to real challenges, boosting their confidence and developing the necessary technical, entrepreneurial, and interpersonal skills to contribute to future industries and a sustainable economy.