UAE Universities Reshape Media Education for the Digital Age
UAE universities are actively evolving their media programs to keep up with artificial intelligence, digital platforms, and shifting audience preferences. This transformation ensures that future journalists gain skills relevant to a rapidly changing industry.
Session at the Arab Media Summit 2026
During a session at the Arab Media Summit 2026 in Dubai, titled "Media Schools and the Skills Gap," leading media educators discussed strategies for university adaptation. They emphasized the need for:
- Flexibility: Universities must become more adaptable to changing industry demands.
- Industry Collaboration: Closer working relationships with the industry can keep curricula relevant.
- Multiplatform Proficiency: Graduates should be skilled in producing content across various platforms.
Insights from Educators
Dr. Muhammed Musa, UAE University
Musa highlighted the shift in audience habits towards digital platforms and social media as key drivers of change in media education. With high internet adoption rates in the UAE, he suggested:
"We cannot continue teaching journalism based on the inverted pyramid. We have to follow people where they are."
He acknowledged that while traditional journalistic skills remain crucial, journalists now need to be versatile and adept at using multiple platforms, including podcasts.
Dr. Russell B. Williams, Zayed University
Williams discussed Zayed University's integration of AI into classroom assessments, encouraging students to incorporate it into their projects and written work. He viewed AI as an evolving tool rather than a revolutionary one, emphasizing the importance of fundamental skills like communication, image manipulation, and audience engagement.
"The key is to become more adaptable to change—fast on our feet."
Dr. Rachel Bentley, Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT)
Bentley agreed that media programs need to evolve, focusing on stronger industry integration and alumni support to navigate technological advancements, as predicting future shifts can be challenging.