Prof (Dr.) Zina Kyriacou, Dean of International Executive School, and Frank Naboulsi, PhD Candidate, presented their research at the 3rd International Conference on Advancing Sustainable Futures, hosted by Abu Dhabi University at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi.
Their presentation, titled "We want to make a real impact for the UAE": Young (Gen Z) Emirati and Migrant Worker Perspectives on Government-Funded Education for Labor Integration Reform, addresses critical questions at the intersection of labor policy, educational investment, and sustainable development in the Gulf region.
The research employs qualitative methodology to examine perspectives from young Emirati nationals and South Asian migrant workers on labor reform challenges and potential solutions. By centering voices historically underrepresented in policy discourse, the study contributes empirical insights to conversations about inclusive development and social cohesion.
The study explores how key stakeholder groups perceive labor integration challenges and the potential role of government-funded educational programming as a reform mechanism. The findings reveal patterns of convergence between communities regarding educational investment as a pathway for meaningful change.
This work addresses a significant gap in empirical literature by investigating stakeholder perspectives rather than relying solely on policy analysis or external assessments. The research demonstrates the importance of including affected communities' voices in understanding complex social phenomena.
The findings contribute to scholarly understanding of how educational programming may serve as an effective mechanism for labor integration in Gulf Cooperation Council contexts. The research has implications for policymakers, educators, and organizational leaders working on inclusive development strategies.
The 3rd International Conference on Advancing Sustainable Futures brought together scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to address pressing challenges in sustainable development, providing a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue on sustainability issues.
This presentation reflects International Executive School's commitment to producing rigorous, policy-relevant research that addresses complex regional challenges and contributes to evidence-based approaches to sustainable development.
For more information about International Executive School, visit: https://www.ies.education
