The digital stage was set, anticipation filled the virtual air, and on March 5th, 2025, aspiring scholars from around the globe gathered for an insightful live webinar. If you missed it, you truly missed a treat! Hosted to demystify the KHOTWA Scholarship, the session was a powerhouse of information, expertly delivered by Perzen Akolawala from Lone Star College and Yasir Ansari, CEO & Founder of Simpled. These leaders didn't just present facts; they painted a vivid picture of opportunity, answering frequently asked questions and guiding attendees towards unlocking their academic dreams. For those eager to learn more or catch up on what unfolded, let's dive into the highlights of this can't-miss event.

What was covered in this session?
KHOTWA Scholarships through ADEK: Empowering UAE Students for Higher Education
Overview of KHOTWA Scholarship Program
Fields of Study Supported by KHOTWA
Benefits of the KHOTWA Scholarship
KHOTWA Scholarship Application Process


Stepping into the spotlight was Yasir Ansari, CEO and Founder of Simpled, an organization strategically allied with CCID and other community college-focused groups. Yasir illuminated Simpled's role by recounting their recent delegation of nine US community colleges to the UAE. This trip included impactful workshops in Dubai and Abu Dhabi high schools, alongside crucial meetings with the KHOTWA Scholarship team at Mindbase and ADEK headquarters. These sessions fostered a deeper understanding of the scholarship and established valuable connections. Excitingly, Yasir announced a repeat delegation program slated for the fall, offering another chance to engage with this global initiative.
What is the KHOTWA Scholarship?

KHOTWA is a prestigious scholarship initiative originating from the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge. It supports UAE students pursuing higher education abroad, particularly in the United States and also provides comprehensive financial support for tuition, living expenses and other costs.
Objectives of the KHOTWA Scholarship

Eligibility Criteria for KHOTWA Scholarship: Who can apply?
UAE nationals who've finished secondary education, applicants who satisfy academic and personal development standards set by the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge, ensuring a high caliber of candidates. Importantly, there is preference for those who are pursuing undergraduate or graduate studies. This preference further refines the selection, favoring fields strategically vital to the UAE's future. Therefore, the scholarship targets ambitious UAE nationals in key sectors, poised to drive national progress.

Fields of Study Supported by KHOTWA:
Engineering
Medicine & Healthcare
Information Technology & Computer Science
Business Administration
Sustainable Development & Renewable Energy
Education

Benefits of the KHOTWA Scholarship:
Full tuition coverage
Accommodation and living expenses
Health insurance and travel allowances
Support for academic resources and textbooks
Professional development programs and internships.
Career counseling and job placement assistance upon graduation.


Turning our attention to US institutions, Perzen Akolawala, representing Lone Star College as Executive Director of International Programs, then provided valuable insights. She illuminated the pathway for American colleges to engage with the KHOTWA Scholarship through strategic partnerships. Perzen explained that US institutions can actively collaborate with the KHOTWA program, a move that not only allows them to offer scholarships to talented UAE students but also secures their place on the esteemed list of KHOTWA-approved schools.
Support Services for KHOTWA Scholars:


KHOTWA Scholarship Application Process:
Step 1: Application Submission: Students apply directly through the Abu Dhabi Education and Knowledge Department.
Step 2: Selection Process: Based on academic performance, personal achievements, and alignment with UAE national priorities.
Step 3: Selection Process: Based on academic performance, personal achievements, and alignment with UAE national priorities.
Step 4: Final Approval: After meeting all eligibility criteria, students are granted scholarships.
Simpled's Fall 2025 UAE Recruitment Tour

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