Dubai's e-learning market, estimated at six million dollars in 2003, is set to grow to $24 million by the end of 2008, boosted by government-led education initiatives and a knowledge-conducive environment, according to a new report by Madar Research .
According to the study, while Dubai is at the forefront of e-learning, it spends a larger percentage on delivery solutions, compared to the global trend where the market has shifted the focus to content. However, several new developments are set to change the situation and Dubai is on course to join the rest of the world in delivering world-class e-learning programs.
The study says that the potential for growth in both the academic and corporate e-learning market in Dubai is high, but it needs to be enhanced with wider use of broadband Internet, which facilitates video streaming applications.
The survey traces the foundation of e-learning to the IT Education Project established by Crown Prince of Dubai and UAE Defense Minister General Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, in 2002 as part of his vision to integrate IT in to the lives of citizens from all sectors of the community. This was followed by the introduction of the IT Education Project, which undertook curriculum development and design, content production and Arabization.
The launch of Dubai e-Government marked a watershed development in e-learning, with projects like the launch of e-Citizen and e-Employee certification, launched in association with Dubai e-Government, the European Computer Driving Licence Foundation and Element K Middle East. Dubai e-Government also launched e4all, to boost IT competency among the community and businesses.
In February 2002, the opening of Knowledge Village gave further impetus to Dubai's drive towards e-learning. Other major developments were the aggressive IT initiatives at the Dubai Men's College and the setting up of e-TQM College, the region's first virtual institution offering courses in total quality management in association with global leading institutions. — (menareport.com)
© 2003 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
