on essential topics such as how to activate scholarships, maintain communication with the Ministry and cultural attachés, understand student rights and responsibilities, adapt to new cultures, prioritize personal safety, and plan academic and career paths. Special sessions were also conducted for parents, underlining the Ministry’s focus on involving families as key supporters of students’ academic and emotional well-being abroad. Former scholarship recipients shared their journeys, emphasizing how the Ministry played a pivotal role in supporting their education overseas. Parents and students also exchanged contact details, forming a support network to ease the transition for first-time scholars. Only 10% of Applicants Selected Dr. Mohammed Al Mualla, Undersecretary of the Ministry, shared that the Ministry receives nearly 3,000 scholarship applications annually, but only 10% are selected — those with exceptional academic merit and admission to top-ranked international universities. As of now, 592 Emirati students are studying abroad through the scholarship programme across 22 countries and over 115 leading universities. In the 2024–2025 academic year alone, 187 students graduated from the programme. Dr. Al Mualla stressed the importance of balancing academics, personal growth, and future career development. He reiterated that the scholarship programme reflects the UAE’s dedication to empowering its youth through world-class education, global exposure, and a strong sense of national identity. He advised students: “Take pride in your Emirati identity, uphold national values and religious ethics, and represent your country with honor wherever you go.” The event included emotional moments, such as students taking photos with their families and writing postcards with heartfelt messages — keepsakes to carry with them during their studies abroad. Voices of the Scholars Khadijah Ali, 20, currently in her third year studying psychology at McMaster University in Canada, described her early experience with a mix of fear, anxiety, and excitement. “I was scared I might fail, but my family’s support helped me move forward. Looking back, I’m so glad I took this step.” She shared how living abroad taught her independence. After her first year in student housing, she found and furnished her own apartment. “That moment of independence at such a young age made me really proud.” She also launched a small business in her second year, selling traditional Emirati Mukhawar dresses. Her advice to new scholars: “Explore beyond academics — those experiences will enrich your student life.” Abdullah Nabil Alnaqbi, 18, is set to study actuarial science at the University of Melbourne, Australia. Inspired by his cousin's positive experience in Australia, he decided early on to study abroad. “This is a chance to grow, rely on myself, and gain life experience,” he said. His mother, who had also studied away from home at UAE University, expressed confidence in the opportunity. “It’s a great way for him to become self-reliant. The preparatory sessions by the school and the Ministry’s commitment gave me peace of mind.” In the weeks before the event, cultural attachés in various countries hosted virtual sessions to help students and parents get familiar with the digital tools and support systems available to them, ensuring a smooth transition into this new chapter.