Leading educational institutions from across the world have gathered in Sharjah to take advantage of one of the fastest growing education markets in the world that is set to exceed $6.7 billion by 2018.

 

The availability of more than 100 top universities and colleges from the country, region and overseas at one place have made the International Education Show at Expo Centre Sharjah the most attractive higher education platform for both national and expatriate students, said a statement.

 

The 12th edition of the three-day International Education Show (IES) was opened today (February 10) at the Expo Centre Sharjah.

 

Explaining the rationale behind the emergence of the UAE as a leading higher education destination, Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, chief executive officer, Expo Centre Sharjah, said: “Rising disposable incomes, boom in student population and an increase in preference for high quality professional as well as academic programmes have resulted in increased focus on higher education in the UAE. 

 

"Besides, education is increasingly seen by the government as a major contributor to national wealth and economic development.” 

 

According to exhibitors, factors that underscore the status of the UAE as an emerging education hub include government initiatives, superior infrastructure and facilities, international collaborations and exposure and a multi-cultural student population.

 

The show is featuring 105 exhibitors that represent almost all universities and higher education institutions in the country as well as leading universities overseas.

 

“The IES offers the best visitor experience in terms of top institutions, the widest range of under-graduate & post-graduate courses, new exhibitors, strategic partnerships with leading organisations and seminars by well-known counsellors, among others,” added Midfa.

 

Meanwhile, IES continues its partnership with Afairs Exhibitions & Media of India to host the Great India Education Fair, featuring more than 50 premier Indian boarding schools, colleges, universities and higher education institutions that offer a variety of academic, professional and vocational programmes.

 

Another highlight of the show is a seminar by a leading education and career counsellor Pervin Malhotra, who will address students and parents on ‘Fastlane to career success: Education opportunities in India after grade 12.’

 

New exhibitors at the show include University of South Wales, Middlesex University, American College of Dubai, American University in Dubai, Dubai Government Human Resources Department, University of Nicosia, Knowledge Way, Babylon Institute, and 4s Study Abroad Consultants, among others.

 

Apart from educational institutions, IES is also featuring professional examination bodies, immigration consultants, scholarships, summer training opportunities, banks offering education loans, distance education courses and programmes for working executives. - TradeArabia News Service