New Delhi: Union Minister of Education Shri Dharmendra Pradhan embarked on a two-day official visit to the United Arab Emirates, engaging with key stakeholders to enhance bilateral cooperation in education, innovation, and knowledge exchange. On 10th September 2025, Shri Pradhan met with H.E. Ms. Sara Musallam, Chairperson of the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK), expressing gratitude for ADEK’s role in establishing the IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi campus and supporting Indian curricula schools in the UAE.
Focus on Expanding Indian Curriculum Schools and Student Exchanges
Both leaders deliberated on expanding cooperation by opening more Indian curriculum-based schools in the UAE to cater to the educational needs of the Indian diaspora. Discussions included facilitating two-way student exchanges beginning at the school level, curriculum development, teacher exchange programs, mutual recognition of qualifications, and alignment with evolving education policy priorities. Shri Pradhan lauded Ms. Musallam’s commitment to reinforce educational cooperation as a pillar of India-UAE bilateral relations.
Launch of India’s First Overseas Atal Incubation Centre
During the visit, Shri Pradhan inaugurated the Atal Incubation Centre at IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi, India’s first such centre overseas. The incubator aims to nurture joint Indian and UAE startups, driving deep tech, AI, clean energy, and healthcare innovations while serving as a gateway for Indian startups to the Middle East markets.
Academic Programmes and Campus Tour
Shri Pradhan also launched new academic programs including B.Tech and Ph.D. courses in Chemical Engineering and Energy & Sustainability at IIT Delhi Abu Dhabi. He toured the campus, interacting with a diverse student body and commending the institution’s role as a beacon of India-UAE knowledge partnership and global engineering education.
Additional Engagements: Symbiosis University and Tree Plantation Drive
Later the same day, Shri Pradhan attended the first anniversary function of Symbiosis University’s Dubai campus, applauding its success in expanding quality Indian higher education abroad. As part of outreach efforts, he also participated in the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” tree plantation campaign at the Indian Consulate in Dubai, emphasizing environmental sustainability in conjunction with educational development.
Conclusion
Shri Dharmendra Pradhan’s visit reinforced India’s commitment to academic collaboration, innovation, and knowledge exchange with the UAE. With enhanced educational infrastructure, cooperative ventures, and cultural engagement, the partnership aims to empower students and institutions leading to shared growth and prosperity.
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Source: PIB
