Dr. Mubarak Al Shamsi is a visionary leader in education, dedicated to advancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training in the UAE. He graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, with a Bachelor in Political Science and minor in International Studies. In 2005 he earned a Master’s Degree in Education Administration, specializing in Educational Leadership and Management, from Queensland University of Technology, Australia, followed by earning his PhD degree from the University of Ulster (Northern Ireland) in 2020.
Dr. Mubarak began his career with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) as Supervisor of Student Affairs and Community Relations, where he quickly rose to become Dean of Students’ Services and Community Relations. His deep commitment to education and leadership excellence was further exemplified when he was appointed Director General of Abu Dhabi Educational Council (ADEC) in 2006. In 2008, he joined the Institute of Applied Technology (IAT), contributing significantly to its success and growth.
In 2009, Dr. Mubarak took on the role of Project Director for the establishment of the National Qualifications Authority (NQA). By 2011, he was appointed Deputy Director General of the Abu Dhabi Center for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (ACTVET) by Amiri Decree. Three years later – in 2014, he assumed the position of Director General, where his strategic vision and leadership continue to shape ACTVET’s mission of empowering young Emiratis to lead in technical and technological fields.
Dr. Mubarak’s influence extends beyond ACTVET, holding several board memberships that reflect his dedication to education and community service. These include positions on the Boards of the Higher Colleges of Technology, WorldSkills Asia (as Founder and President), the Emirates Foundation, the Supreme Committee for the Emirates Standardized Test (EMSAT), Zayed Higher Organization for Humanitarian Care & Special Needs, Abu Dhabi Vocational Education and Training Institute, Emirates National Schools, and the Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Foundation.
His leadership and vision continue to shape impactful initiatives in technical education and community development, ensuring a lasting legacy of progress and innovation. His firm belief in the transformative power of technical education and the potential of young Emirati talent drives his efforts to build a future where innovation, technology, and skilled expertise are at the forefront of the UAE’s development.
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