Adapting to a New Era in International Education: Dr. Mariam Shaikh’s Insight on Hybrid Learning and Mental Health Support for Students
Dr. Mariam Shaikh’s career in education spans over three decades, from founding a nursery school to leading MS Education Consultants, and she continues to be a trailblazer in the field of international education consulting. With a career shaped by student-centric learning, personal empowerment, and lifelong growth, she has left an indelible mark on the global education landscape. Her experience includes collaborating with the Canadian Alumni group from universities across Canada, serving as the Head of Education Connect for the Canadian Business Council, and acting as a Middle East Strategist for institutions such as the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. These roles have enriched her approach to student mentorship and her deep understanding of international education systems.
One of the key lessons Dr. Shaikh has gleaned from her extensive career is that education must be adaptable and personalized. Students bring their own unique strengths, aspirations, and challenges, which is why her work at MS Education Consultants revolves around providing tailored guidance that supports not just academic success but also personal development. Dr. Shaikh believes that education is a holistic journey, and she has witnessed how cross-cultural understanding and global competence can significantly enhance a student’s educational experience.
The Future of Global Education
As someone who has facilitated international partnerships between universities, Dr. Shaikh is uniquely positioned to speak on the future of global education. She predicts that the next five years will bring exciting changes, particularly in cross-cultural student mobility. Hybrid learning models, which gained traction during the pandemic, will play a central role in democratizing international education. Students may start their programs online from their home countries and later spend a semester or two on a partner university campus abroad. This flexibility will make global education more accessible and inclusive.
In addition to these technological advancements, Dr. Shaikh emphasizes the growing importance of cultural intelligence and global citizenship as key competencies for the future. Universities will increasingly focus on cross-institutional collaborations and joint-degree programs that provide students with a truly global education. However, the geopolitical and economic landscape will also influence student mobility. Emerging education hubs like the UAE and Singapore, with their favorable policies and competitive education systems, will likely see an influx of international students. Canada, with its welcoming immigration policies and multicultural environment, will continue to be a top destination, particularly for students from the Middle East. MS Education Consultants remains at the forefront of these developments, ensuring that students receive the most up-to-date advice on their educational journeys.
Women’s Empowerment and Mental Health Initiatives
Dr. Shaikh’s commitment to women’s empowerment and mental health is deeply integrated into her work at MS Education Consultants. She has made it a priority to support young women in overcoming barriers to education, encouraging them to pursue leadership roles and non-traditional fields like STEM. Through her network of successful female professionals and alumni, Dr. Shaikh provides role models and mentorship opportunities, helping young women realize their full potential.
Equally important is mental health awareness. Studying abroad comes with its own set of challenges, and Dr. Shaikh ensures that her consultancy offers support beyond academics. From stress management workshops to connecting students with mental health resources, MS Education Consultants creates an environment where students can thrive both academically and emotionally.
Dr. Shaikh also advocates for women entrepreneurs and mental health through the Global Women Entrepreneurs Group, a platform that supports women across industries. By mentoring female entrepreneurs and addressing the mental health challenges of balancing personal and professional responsibilities, she continues to foster a culture of resilience and empowerment.
Overcoming Challenges During the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic was a turning point in Dr. Shaikh’s career, particularly the time she spent stranded in Mumbai during the lockdown. This period of uncertainty led her to deeply reflect on the challenges students faced during the global disruption. It became clear to her that students needed more than just academic advising; they required comprehensive support that could adapt to the uncertainties of a rapidly changing world. MS Education Consultants was born out of this realization.
One of the core pillars of her vision for MS Education Consultants is adaptability. The pandemic exposed vulnerabilities in the traditional education system, especially for international students, and Dr. Shaikh recognized the need for flexible solutions. From helping students navigate online learning to dealing with visa and travel restrictions, MS Education Consultants offers personalized, adaptable guidance that supports students in even the most uncertain times.
Innovative Solutions at MS Education Consultants
As competition in the education consultancy space increases, MS Education Consultants stands out by offering holistic, innovative solutions. Beyond admissions and visa processes, the consultancy provides academic guidance, career mentorship, and mental health support. One of the key differentiators is the Personalized Mentorship Program, which connects students with industry professionals and university alumni. These mentorship sessions provide students with real-world insights and career guidance, giving them a head start in their professional lives.
In addition to personalized mentorship, MS Education Consultants has integrated mental health and well-being initiatives into its services. Recognizing the emotional challenges of studying abroad, Dr. Shaikh’s team offers stress management workshops and access to wellness resources, ensuring that
students are emotionally equipped to succeed.
Technology-driven solutions are also a hallmark of MS Education Consultants. From virtual reality campus tours to AI-powered tools that match students with the best universities based on their profiles, the consultancy leverages cutting-edge technology to enhance the student experience.
Looking to the future, one of the most exciting initiatives at MS Education Consultants is the Global Internship and Career Placement Program. This initiative will connect students with internship opportunities at leading global companies, giving them practical experience and enhancing their employability. Additionally, the Cross-Cultural Immersion Programs prepare students for the social and cultural challenges of living abroad, ensuring they are well-equipped to thrive in a global environment.
Senior Positions and Global Influence
In addition to her work at MS Education Consultants, Dr. Mariam Shaikh has held senior positions at prestigious institutions like Canadian University Dubai, Heriot-Watt University, and Amity University Dubai. A pivotal achievement in her career was bringing the very first Canadian institution, the University of New Brunswick, to Dubai in 2000, marking a significant milestone in the region’s educational landscape. These roles and accomplishments have further solidified her expertise in higher education and international student mentorship. Her career is a testament to her dedication to empowering students globally, and her work continues to shape the future of international education.
