A shared success: the 2026 Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) Study Tour
Monash University and Monash College have marked the successful conclusion of the second annual Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) Study Tour, a co-designed program between the University's Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Science and Monash College, broadening access to a Monash education for high-achieving secondary students from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Building on the success of the inaugural 2025 program, this year's tour welcomed 22 high-achieving secondary students and two chaperones from the United Arab Emirates for a three-week program designed to be rigorous, immersive and transformative.
Students spent their first week at Monash University's Clayton campus, engaging with world-class healthcare environments including the Victorian Heart Hospital and Nursing Labs, before joining Monash College at the Monash University Melbourne City Campus for two weeks of interactive learning across human anatomy and physiology, genetics, biotechnology, health systems and epidemiology. The program gave students hands-on exposure to medical and health science disciplines, and practical insight into applying for the Monash Medical Program.
The tour concluded with a Closing Ceremony, where students presented their Group Research Task, Innovative Health Solutions for UAE's Future, addressing real-world health challenges facing the UAE. The event was attended by Dr Lisa Interligi, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Monash College, Matt Carter, Executive Director, Education, Monash College, Dr Nizar Farjou, Associate President for the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia, Monash University and representatives from ADEK and the UAE Cultural Attaché Office.
Dr Lisa Interligi, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Monash College, reflected on the ADEK Study Tour.
"This co-designed program reflects the excellent education and research of Monash. It was designed especially for young learners who aspire to pursue a career in medicine, and I've been exceedingly proud to see our students accelerate their academic rigour, gain hands-on exposure to medical and health sciences, and deepen the connection between Monash and the UAE."
"We exist to broaden the appeal of and access to a world-class education. We do this by preparing students for academic, social, wellbeing and career success that extends beyond formal tertiary education."
The tour reflects the deep and enduring connection between Monash University and Monash College – and the bold ambitions set by Impact 2030 and the Monash College Strategy 2026–30. As the University's principal pathway provider, the College exists to broaden the appeal of and access to a Monash education for students onshore and offshore, connecting them to the University's world-class facilities, research and teaching.
This year's tour further demonstrates the strategic partnership between the University, the College and ADEK, and underscores the College's role in activating a Monash presence in the Middle East. On behalf of Monash College, we'd like to acknowledge all those involved, including the leadership of Amy Gledden, Executive Director, Student Recruitment and Admissions, and her team, the College's Senior Leadership Team, and Dr Nizar Farjou, Associate President for the Middle East, North Africa and Central Asia, for his continued support.
We are invested in the communities we serve and are committed to enacting positive impact through education.
Watch the ADEK Study Tour highlight video, capturing the students' experience across their three weeks at Monash.
