The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) celebrated a historic milestone as it graduated its largest cohort ever, comprising over 6,700 graduates for the academic year 2025-2026. The graduation ceremony, held at the Union Arena in Abu Dhabi, was themed “Deep Roots… Sustainable Impact” and featured graduates from various branches of the colleges across the nation.
Ceremony Highlights and Attendees
His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, officiated the ceremony alongside Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports and President of HCT, Dr. Abdulrahman Al Awar, Minister of Human Resources and Emiratisation and Acting Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and Dr. Faisal Alyan, Director of HCT. The event also saw participation from senior officials, partner organisations, faculty and administrative members, alumni from previous cohorts, and the families of the graduates.
Celebrating Achievements
In his address, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi congratulated the Class of 2026 and their families, recognising the graduation as a significant achievement in the college’s journey. He highlighted the government’s commitment to investing in human capital and developing national competencies that contribute to the country’s developmental and economic priorities. “The journey of HCT is driven by a strong national vision that places the individual at the centre of development,” he remarked. “Building a competitive and sustainable economy requires continuous investment in knowledge, skills, and young talents.”
A Look Back at HCT’s Journey
The ceremony included a video presentation chronicling the evolution of HCT since its founding in 1988, showcasing key milestones and the pivotal role played by Sheikh Nahyan in establishing and enhancing its educational model. Another video provided insights into HCT’s achievements through various metrics, including the growth in student numbers, program expansion, and advancements in infrastructure, reflecting the institution’s developmental journey over nearly four decades.
Inaugurating Future Talent
Following the presentations, graduates were celebrated as they were announced by their academic specialisations, receiving warm accolades from their families and attendees. The event also introduced awards for outstanding students and included a loyalty oath before the formal recognition of academic achievers on stage.
This year’s cohort saw a remarkable growth of approximately 43% in the number of graduates compared to the previous year, evidencing HCT’s expanding contribution of national talent to the labour market across a wide array of applied and professional disciplines. Graduates hailed from HCT branches throughout the Emirates, with 1,640 from Abu Dhabi, 1,145 from Sharjah, 930 from Al Ain, 896 from Dubai, 887 from Ras Al Khaimah, 729 from Fujairah, and 179 from the Al Dhafra region, alongside 360 from Khalifa Bin Zayed Air College and Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum Naval College.
Preparing for a Bright Future
The expansion of HCT is set to continue with the opening of a new branch in Masfout in the central region during the 2026-2027 academic year, aimed at further widening access to applied education for more students in the area. This growth is not only of scale but also of academic excellence, as more than 12% of the graduates achieved cumulative GPAs of 3.5 or higher, with 14 students completing their studies with the highest GPA of 4.0.
In total, the graduating class included 804 graduates who were recognised with excellence and honors, underlining the high standards and aspirations of HCT as it continues to cultivate the next generation of UAE professionals.