Dr Scott Richardson, Executive Dean, The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management
The Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management places emphasis on cultivating soft skills and practical application of academic theory, writes Executive Dean Dr Scott Richardson
Tackling challenges in the new normal
A key challenge for us was the migration of our practical-based courses online, and how this would be received by both students and parents alike. Fortunately, the migration has been overwhelmingly welcomed by all parties, who value the flexibility online learning gives them - and I see this having a lasting effect on higher education moving forward. The digitalisation of economies as a result of Covid-19 has also provided us with plenty of opportunities for research; pioneering this is Dr Sanjay Nadkarni, our Director of Innovation and Research and Dubai Future Foundation research contributor.
A portal to diversity
Diversity has always been one of the UAE's greatest assets and provides students studying here a world of culture, creativity and opportunity at their doorstep. As a world-leading hospitality school, we are fortunate to have students and faculty from over 50 countries contributing to our events, activities, research and network. Such exposure has resulted in our graduates working in over 100 companies spanning more than 40 countries; they know our diversity can open doors all around the world.
Focus on employability
The role of technology in the UAE's educational sector has always been crucial in providing it with a future-focused vision. Covid-19, however, has meant a paradigm shift amongst students and parents - with a larger focus on post-study employability more than ever before. Higher education institutions will come to realise and adapt to this and courses will start seeing a greater focus on cultivating soft skills and practical application of academic theory. At the Emirates Academy of Hospitality Management, we have already embraced this through our practical learning opportunities and our internship programmes with the world's leading hotels here in the UAE, as well as our partnership with Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts.
Cultivating skills
The UAE has always been a gateway to an abundance of career opportunities both locally and abroad, and our 97 per cent employment rate amongst graduating students is a clear testament to the system's ability to fulfil these demands. This high employability figure, however, is a result of EAHM's emphasis on cultivating our students' soft skills and business acumen - setting them up for leadership in any industry. Access to a global network of business leaders and career opportunities at iconic hotels like Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah ensure our students have a multitude of career opportunities in hospitality and beyond.