MoHESR monitors 1,976 advertisements, flags violations in Q1 2026

May 12, 2026 / 5:21 PM

Sharjah 24 – WAM: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has monitored 1,976 digital advertisements issued by 89 higher education institutions (HEIs) and training centres during the first quarter of 2026, using an AI-enhanced proactive monitoring system.

Monitoring of advertisements using AI system

The initiative aims to ensure the quality of higher education programmes and academic training and protect students from non-compliant promotional practices.

Violations identified and corrective actions taken

The monitoring found 46 advertisements that did not meet approved standards. The Ministry took corrective action, including issuing warnings for unaccredited programmes, closing a training centre, blocking advertisements from unlicensed training centres and consultancy offices, and requiring amendments to non-compliant advertisements before republication.

72 field inspection visits conducted

In parallel, the Ministry carried out 72 field inspection visits to training centres and educational consulting offices during the first quarter of the year, identifying 21 violations that were addressed in accordance with applicable regulations. These visits reflect the Ministry’s commitment to integrating digital and field monitoring to ensure compliance with approved standards and controls.

Commitment to regulatory oversight and student protection

Ibrahim Fikri, Acting Assistant Under-Secretary for the Higher Education and Scientific Research Regulation and Governance Sector at MoHESR, noted that the Ministry’s regulatory framework is built on a proactive approach designed to protect students, enhance the quality of higher education and training, and ensure compliance with approved standards.

He added that the Ministry continues to use digital technologies and AI to strengthen monitoring and take faster action against violations, reinforcing confidence in the higher education system.

Advisory for students and parents

MoHESR urged students and parents to verify that institutions are licensed and programmes are accredited by the Commission for Academic Accreditation (CAA) before enrolling, via the Ministry’s website or the Customer Happiness Centre at 800511, stressing that student protection and education quality remain key priorities.