Dubai is pioneering a groundbreaking educational initiative with the launch of a ‘micro-master’ degree in planning and future foresight for municipal work. This six-month hybrid program, developed in collaboration between Dubai Municipality and the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) Dubai, aims to equip participants with the skills to address real-world workplace challenges and implement practical solutions immediately. The course is being hailed as a transformative step in higher education, offering a flexible and efficient pathway to professional development. Participants who complete the program will receive an accredited, internationally recognized academic certificate. Those who wish to further their education can use the credits earned toward a full master’s degree. Dr. Yousef Al Assaf, President of RIT Dubai, emphasized that this program reflects the future of education, where learners can acquire essential skills in a shorter timeframe and apply them directly to their careers. The curriculum covers qualitative and quantitative foresight methodologies, including scenario planning, strategic road mapping, and environmental scanning. Participants will engage in hands-on capstone projects, supported by global experts, to tackle pressing issues such as achieving net zero by 2050, ensuring food security, and designing sustainable urban environments. The initiative is designed to institutionalize future foresight capabilities within Dubai Municipality’s leadership, enabling participants to anticipate trends, manage uncertainty, and develop adaptive strategies that align with Dubai’s long-term urban, environmental, and economic goals. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, highlighted the importance of anticipating change as a collective responsibility to ensure readiness for the future. This program not only strengthens municipal leadership but also fosters agility and informed decision-making grounded in emerging trends.
Want to be future-ready? Dubai’s new ‘micro-master’ degree to train you for tomorrow
