Commencing on October 5, 2023, the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) will inaugurate its 2023 graduation season to celebrate the graduation of 2,888 male and female students, representing the "Today's Leaders for Tomorrow" cohort, who have completed programs in Engineering Technology & Science, Health Sciences, Business, Computer Information Science, Applied Media, and Education, across HCT's 16 campuses located throughout the UAE.

Dr. Faisal Al Ayyan, President & CEO of HCT, extended his appreciation and heartfelt gratitude to the UAE’s wise leadership, led by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, and His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and their brothers, Their Highnesses Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates, for their unwavering support of HCT, that has been instrumental in empowering the institution to fulfill its mission of preparing national talent and equipping them with the necessary workforce skills.

Dr. Al Ayyan extended his congratulations to the graduates of the "Today's Leaders for Tomorrow" cohort, emphasizing that the graduates have been imbued with the knowledge and expertise that bolsters their employability in various vital sectors in the country. In addition, Dr. Al Ayyan said the cohort have been equipped with innovation and entrepreneurship skills, enabling them to proactively create opportunities. As a result, among these graduates, there are now entrepreneurs and startup owners, all of whom are actively contributing to the ongoing processes of development.

He remarked that the upcoming graduation season, commencing on October 5, serves as a noteworthy annual occasion, in which HCT takes immense pride, particularly due to its exceptional graduates who represent the leaders of tomorrow. These graduates are a source of immense happiness for their families and a source of national pride for their country, he added. “With their acquired skills and capabilities, they are well-equipped to commence shaping their own futures, and are committed to working diligently and wholeheartedly to contribute to the prosperity of their beloved country, which has consistently placed its trust in them, recognizing them as its true wealth,” Dr. Al Ayyan said.

Dr. Al Ayyan emphasized HCT's commitment to graduating skilled individuals, which has driven it to implement significant changes in its educational system, including facilitating a substantial advancement in applied education that adheres to global best practices. The new strategy centers on the core principle of "inclusivity," aiming to attract a wide range of students and offer them educational opportunities that align with their unique abilities and interests while also meeting the labor market's demands.

Dr. Al Ayyan also highlighted "integration" as the second principle of the strategy, which fosters collaborative relationships between HCT and various sectors, particularly the private sector. This collaboration supports the national leadership's efforts to provide diverse job prospects and increase Emiratization rates in key sectors. The integration involves establishing strong connections between academic studies, practical experience, and engagement with employers. The ultimate goal is to provide students with a rich professional educational experience, so they are effectively placed in the job market and can address any challenges.