The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has launched the ‘Skills for Life,’ a novel initiative that will help learners across Dubai hone a variety of skills and adapt to the fast-changing world around them.
The initiative was launched under the directives of HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense, and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai.
The initiative is inspired by the concept of education as a lifelong journey that extends beyond classrooms and across every stage of life. It will support the journey of learners across Dubai from early childhood through adulthood, helping them develop the practical, personal, and social skills they need to thrive in life, learning, and work, in line with the goals of the Education 33 Strategy.
Launched amid the Year of the Family in the UAE, Skills for Life aligns with the goals of the National Education Charter, launched by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Dubai’s Education 33 Strategy (E33).
Skills for Life will equip learners with the knowledge, skills, mindsets, and values needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. It aims to foster lifelong learning and help learners realize their true potential and contribute positively to society.
Furthermore, KHDA Skills for Life will be rolled out during the 2026–27 academic year and will continue to evolve in response to the changing needs of learners, communities, and the future workforce.
KHDA’s Skills for Life initiative integrates practical life skills into education
The initiative encompasses a broad range of life skills that will be integrated into learning environments and curricula to meet the needs of learners at every stage. Areas of focus include healthy lifestyles, nutrition and healthy eating practices, financial and consumer literacy, social and relationship skills, mental resilience, digital skills and practices, sustainability, and independent and daily life management.
Recognizing that learning happens everywhere, KHDA Skills for Life encourages collaboration between educational institutions, educators, parents, employers, and the wider community to create enriching learning experiences that extend beyond the classroom and support learners at every stage of life.
Skills for Life supports several key Game Changer initiatives under E33 that are designed to develop future-ready skills. These include: Future Astrolabe, which strengthens academic and career guidance in educational institutions; City of Students, which aims to enrich the educational experiences of all learners in Dubai; Life Camps focused on developing life skills; Learn Anywhere, which aims to improve the quality of education across all phases in line with international best practices; and Skills for Tomorrow, which continuously identifies the future skills learners need.
The new KHDA initiative is also supported by local and international partnerships to strengthen youth leadership skills and expand access to internationally recognized non-formal learning pathways delivered outside traditional academic settings.
