Software developer shortage transcends international boundaries

But more science and technology education may not solve the tech industry's hiring challenges if the curriculum isn't relevant to the issues businesses face, said the panelists.

Abdulaziz became involved with the committee that plans the syllabus for colleges in the United Arab Emirates since it lacked business input and "was a bunch of universities talking to each other."

"At the end of the day you want your graduates to work in these companies," he said, adding that the committee now includes more business perspectives.

The United Arab Emirates isn't the only government incorporating business voices into higher education lesson planning.

Classes in Massachusetts community colleges are "tailored" to meet the IT needs of the state's businesses, said Murray. The state sought industry input on what skills would be needed over the next five to 10 years, she said.