National Practical Training Platform Launched for Higher-Ed Students

The UAE has introduced the National Practical Training Platform, a new system designed to connect higher-education students with on-the-job training and internship opportunities across public and private entities. The launch was announced by the ministries in charge of labour and education, along with the nation’s Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council under the Nafis programme. Through the new platform, students can register digitally, submit applications, and browse available training programmes in a single, unified portal. Participating government organisations, private firms, and companies can post opportunities — from internships to structured training — to help students gain practical experience relevant to their fields. The initiative aims to bridge the gap between academic education and market needs by offering real-world experience, strengthening the employability of graduates, and supporting national efforts to build a more skilled workforce. The platform is part of broader efforts to integrate theoretical education with practical exposure, supporting long-term economic and knowledge-economy development. Authorities described the platform as a major step toward improving the quality of graduate readiness for the labour market, promoting lifelong learning, and enhancing collaboration between government, academia and the private sector under a transparent, streamlined system.