GEMS Education has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Oracle to equip secondary students and alumni with future-ready digital skills through Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative (SDI).

Under the collaboration, learners across the GEMS network will gain free access to learning content and foundational certifications in artificial intelligence (AI), data analytics, and cloud computing. The initiative marks the first time Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative has been extended to a private school network.

Previously focused on higher education students and working professionals seeking to upskill or reskill, the programme will now bring industry-grade learning experiences directly into secondary education.

Dino Varkey said the future competitiveness of nations will depend on their ability to develop digitally fluent and innovation-driven talent. He noted that technology, AI, and the digital economy are central to the UAE’s long-term vision and that education plays a critical role in supporting those ambitions.

He added that the partnership gives students access to industry-recognised learning experiences and credentials that have traditionally been available only at universities or during the early stages of professional careers. According to Varkey, the initiative represents an important step in reimagining school-based learning in the age of AI and digital transformation while helping build a future-ready talent pipeline for the UAE’s knowledge-based economy.

Furthermore, the collaboration enables GEMS Education to move from general digital exposure to a structured upskilling model. The programme is designed to help students progress from awareness to capability and ultimately certification.

As part of the agreement, both organisations have set measurable targets. The initiative aims to upskill at least 11,000 learners across the GEMS network over the next three years and certify 50 percent of participants.

Leopoldo Boado Lama said the UAE is setting a global benchmark for preparing citizens for an AI-driven future. He noted that bringing Oracle University’s Skills Development Initiative into secondary education for the first time will provide students with access to technology skills and credentials that are increasingly valued by universities and employers worldwide.

He added that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to developing future-ready talent and ensuring young people are equipped to participate in and shape the digital economy.

Through the programme, students and alumni will gain access to the Oracle MyLearn platform, which offers structured learning pathways that support continuous development from foundational to advanced levels.

The platform includes courses covering AI and generative AI foundations, cloud computing fundamentals, data platforms and analytics, cybersecurity, and enterprise applications such as ERP, HCM, and CX.

In addition, Oracle will contribute its expertise in enterprise technology, AI, and cloud solutions to help students gain practical skills and industry-recognised credentials while still in school. The agreement also establishes a long-term, non-exclusive collaboration, allowing flexibility for future ecosystem expansion.

Participants will be able to earn digital badges and receive multiple free attempts at certification exams. Successful learners will gain credentials that can strengthen both university applications and career prospects. Through this GEMS Education initiative, students will have greater access to industry-recognised digital skills and certifications that support the UAE’s growing digital economy.

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