Latest news with #EmiratiStudents
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
PwC Middle East welcomes Emirati students for second Annual Consulting Insights Week
Dubai, United Arab Emirates - PwC Middle East welcomed a new cohort of talented Emirati students to its second annual Consulting Insights Week, reaffirming its commitment to developing the next generation of national leaders and problem-solvers. Held across Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the week-long programme gives high-performing high school students early exposure to the world of consulting, innovation, and real business challenges, offering a practical foundation for future career choices in a fast-changing economy. Endorsed by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), the Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) and the Ministry of Education, the initiative reflects the strength of public and private partnerships in nurturing young national talent. Dr. Amna Al Maazmi, CEO of Growth and Development at KHDA, joined the event in Dubai on Monday, 14 July 2025, to address the students and reinforce the importance of local talent development in the UAE's future. This year's cohort includes 14 students from top schools across the UAE. Throughout the week, they will take part in interactive workshops, project simulations, and mentorship sessions led by PwC professionals, helping them build critical thinking skills, commercial awareness, and confidence. Participants will gain exposure to real-world consulting through project simulations, mentorship sessions, and interactive workshops delivered by PwC Middle East's Foundation for the Future team. Students will also leave with practical skills, exposure to real client work, and a clear path into the profession. Dr. Amna Al Maazmi added: 'Empowering Emirati youth is at the heart of Dubai's Education 33 strategy. Initiatives like Consulting Insights Week play an important role in helping our students build the skills, confidence, and mindset needed to thrive in a changing world. By connecting education with real-world opportunities, we are developing the next generation of homegrown talent who will shape the future of Dubai and the UAE.' The programme also introduces students to PwC's Watani initiative, led by Khaled Bin Braik, Emiratisation Leader at PwC Middle East. Through Watani, PwC offers structured pathways for Emiratis to grow their careers in professional services and leadership roles. Bin Braik commented:"This programme reflects PwC Middle East's long-term investment in Emirati youth. We are committed to equipping our students with the mindset and tools they need to become leaders of tomorrow and drive sustainable change across the region.' By bringing together ambitious youth, public education stakeholders, and industry leaders, Emirati Consulting Insights Week reflects PwC Middle East's strategic focus on Emiratisation, inclusive growth, and workforce transformation. As the firm continues to scale its impact across the region, programmes like this serve as a key pillar of its mission to help build, accelerate and sustain momentum - starting with youth who matter most to the UAE's economy. About PwC At PwC, we help clients build trust and reinvent so they can turn complexity into competitive advantage. We're a tech-forward, people-empowered network with more than 370,000 people in 149 countries. Across audit and assurance, tax and legal, deals and consulting we help build, accelerate and sustain momentum. With over 12,000 people across 12 countries in 30 offices, PwC Middle East combines deep regional insight with global expertise to help clients solve complex problems, drive transformation, and achieve sustained outcomes. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see for further details.
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge launches 3rd ADEK Summer Program, expanding to more countries
Abu Dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge has launched the third edition of its Summer Program with 200 high-performing Emirati students from grades 10 and 11 across public, private, and Charter Schools in Abu Dhabi. The ADEK Summer Program provides students with the opportunity to select pathways and programmes in top global universities from seven countries across four continents, empowering them to explore their passions and academic interests, develop a global mindset, expand their knowledge, and support their academic and personal growth. His Excellency Mubarak Hamad Al Mheiri, ADEK Undersecretary, said: 'Following a successful programme last year, this expansion – in terms of the number of students, countries, universities involved, and the number of programs available – underlines our commitment to nurturing even more talented and aspiring students and empowering them to expand their knowledge beyond classroom boundaries. 'ADEK Summer Program students are encouraged to pursue post-secondary studies internationally at top-tier universities and discover their passion, equipping them with future-ready skills for critical growth sectors in the emirate and globally." The 2025 edition features a total of 14 programmes including nine academic and five credit-bearing, aligned with key growth industries such as Medicine, AI, Neurobiology, Biotechnology, Cognitive Science, Visual Arts and Design, and Cinematography. Of these, seven are at top 20 universities, with 65 students joining programmes at pioneering institutions including Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Cornell University, Columbia University, University of California, Berkeley, National University of Singapore (NUS), and Berklee College of Music. Participation also enhances students' competitiveness for future academic opportunities, including the prestigious Abu Dhabi Scholarships Program. In 2024, ADEK's Summer Program alumni earned admission to top 50 global universities and secured placements in new Creative and Elite Majors, underscoring the program's role in developing globally competitive, industry-aligned talent. About Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) The Abu Dhabi Department of Education and Knowledge (ADEK) is the Education Sector regulator across the Emirate. It oversees and provides services throughout a learner's journey from early education to university and beyond. It also champions inclusivity for People of Determination in the mainstream schooling system and by providing specialized schools. Across Early Childhood and K-12, ADEK licenses and regulates nurseries and private schools in Abu Dhabi while also legislating, mandating, and managing its own Charter Schools and 2 schools for People of Determination. ADEK also annually provides distinguished Abu Dhabi students with full scholarships and support to study at the best universities around the world. In addition, the Department audits and enhances the delivery of Higher Education in Abu Dhabi, attracting Higher Education Institutions to open the required Program or schools that serve Abu Dhabi's needs while championing a student and faculty-friendly ecosystem in the Emirate. With a vision to Empower Education. Empower Minds. Empower the Future, ADEK recognizes that every learner is different, and a diversity of teaching methods are essential for students to succeed. To that effect, ADEK partners with stakeholders to enable a great education system to flourish in Abu Dhabi and nurture future-ready graduates who have the 21st-century skills required to sustain and carry forward Abu Dhabi's vision.
Zawya
07-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Ajman University and DIB forge strategic partnership to accelerate career pathways for Emirati Talent
Ajman University (AU), one of the region's leading non-profit institutions, has signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) with DIB, the world's first Islamic bank and the largest in the UAE, to strengthen career pathways for Emirati students and support workforce readiness in alignment with national development priorities. The agreement, signed by Dr. Karim Seghir, Chancellor of Ajman University, and Ms. Rafia Al Abbar, SVP - Head of Human Resources at DIB, marks a joint commitment to preparing career-ready graduates equipped with the skills, mindset, and practical experience required to thrive in today's dynamic job market. As part of the MoU, DIB will offer internship and employment opportunities to Emirati graduates from Ajman University, providing them with real-world exposure to the Islamic banking and financial services sector. The bank will also host AU students for immersive learning experiences at its premises, including industry workshops, site visits, and professional mentorship initiatives led by senior DIB executives. Furthermore, DIB will actively support AU's career-focused initiatives, from student development programs to serving as a strategic industry partner in shaping students' early professional journeys. In return, AU will extend exclusive educational benefits to DIB employees and their families, including tailor-made workshops designed to build leadership capacity and strengthen professional competencies. These offerings reflect AU's broader mission to make high-quality education more accessible, while promoting continuous professional growth in response to evolving workforce needs. 'As a non-profit university, our mission extends beyond academic excellence to preparing graduates who are ready to make a difference. This collaboration with DIB brings academic inquiry and industry practice into closer dialogue, giving our students the opportunity to grow intellectually, develop professionally, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them', said Dr. Seghir. Commenting on the partnership, Rafia Al Abbar, said: 'Our collaboration with Ajman University reflects our enduring commitment to nurturing Emirati talent and shaping the next generation of leaders in Islamic finance. Through practical training, mentorship, and structured career paths, we aim to bridge the gap between academic learning and the real-world expectations of today's financial industry. This partnership reflects our broader strategy to empower youth with the skills, tools, confidence and insight to thrive, while advancing the UAE's national vision of building a competitive, knowledge-based economy.' This partnership builds on Ajman University's ongoing efforts to align higher education with market demands, contributing to the UAE's strategic approach of building knowledge-based future, fuelled by innovation, for the generations to come. About Ajman University Founded in 1988 as the first private university in the UAE, Ajman University (AU) has a proud legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. Today, AU stands as a globally recognized institution, ranked #477 worldwide and #5 in the UAE by the 2025 QS World University Rankings, and is the first private, non-profit university in the Arab region to earn full accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). With nine specialized colleges offering a broad range of disciplines, AU ensures its students receive a well-rounded education that equips them for success in a competitive global workforce. This diverse academic foundation has contributed to the success of over 40,000 alumni, many of whom hold leadership positions across industries worldwide. Reflecting the university's commitment to career readiness, AU is ranked #1 in the UAE for Employer Reputation. As a non-profit institution, AU reinvests in its mission to make education accessible to all while driving academic excellence, research, and societal impact through diverse undergraduate and graduate programs. About DIB: Established in 1975, DIB is the largest Islamic bank in the UAE by assets and a public joint stock company listed on the Dubai Financial Market. Spearheading the evolution of the global Islamic finance industry, DIB is also the world's first full service Islamic bank and amongst the largest Islamic banks in the world. With Group assets now exceeding USD90 billion and market capitalisation of more than USD 14bln, the group operates with a workforce of more than 10,000 employees and around 500 branches in its vast global network across the Middle East, Asia and Africa. Serving over 5 million customers across the Group, DIB offers an increasing range of innovative Shariah-compliant products and services to retail, corporate and institutional clients. In addition to being the first and largest Islamic bank in the UAE, DIB has a significant international presence as a torchbearer in promoting Shariah-compliant financial services across a number of markets worldwide. The bank has established DIB Pakistan Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary which is the first Islamic bank in Pakistan to offer Priority & Platinum Banking, The launch of Panin Dubai Syariah Bank in Indonesia early marked DIB's first foray in the Far East, with a stake of nearly 25% stake in the Indonesian bank. Additionally, DIB was given the licence by the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) to operate its subsidiary, DIB Kenya Ltd. DIB has been designated as D-SIB (Domestic Systemically Important Bank) in UAE. The acquisition of Noor Bank has solidified its position as a leading bank in the global Islamic finance industry. Recently, DIB has successfully acquired minority stake of 25% of T.O.M. Group which provides digital banking services in Türkiye. The bank's ultimate goal is to make Islamic finance the norm, rather than an alternative to conventional banking worldwide. DIB has won a range of accolades that are testament to these efforts across diversified areas, including retail, corporate and investment banking, as well as CSR and consultancy services. DIB has been named the 'Best Islamic Bank' in various prestigious ceremonies marking the bank's leadership position in the Islamic finance sector. As a progressive Islamic financial institution, DIB embraces the opportunities and challenges associated with integrating sustainability into its business by delivering sustainable products and services and by advancing the green and social composition. 2025 marked DIB Golden Jubilee, with a Bold New Vision for the Future to be prepared to meet the challenges ahead and continue building a legacy of success for the years to come.
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Higher Colleges of Technology and Saal.ai forge strategic partnership to build the UAE's next generation of AI Talent
The collaboration aims to prepare UAE nationals for the industry, providing them practical experience and training in artificial intelligence and big data systems. The agreement was officially signed during a ceremony held at the Higher Colleges of Technology campus. Abu Dhabi, UAE: In a major step toward advancing the UAE's innovation ecosystem and higher education landscape, the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), the largest higher education institution in the UAE, has signed a strategic partnership with a cognitive technology company under the Abu Dhabi Capital Group (ADCG). The collaboration aims to equip Emirati students with future-ready skills in artificial intelligence (AI) and big data technologies. The agreement was formalized during a signing ceremony held at the HCT campus, reinforcing both institutions' commitment to nurturing local talent and supporting the UAE's transformation into a knowledge-based economy. This initiative aligns with the UAE Year of Community and the nation's broader goals to accelerate innovation, empower youth, and foster impactful partnerships between academia and technology leaders. At the heart of this collaboration is the integration of DigiXT, UAE-developed enterprise-grade AI and big data platform, into HCT's academic programs. This will offer students hands-on learning experiences with real-world applications of AI and data analytics. Through this platform, students will develop practical expertise that enhances their employability, while industry partners benefit from a skilled pipeline of graduates proficient in cutting-edge technologies. His Excellency Dr. Faisal Alayyan, President and CEO of HCT, emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating: 'This initiative marks a transformative milestone in our educational journey. By embedding AI into our curricula, we are equipping Emirati youth with the future-focused skills needed to lead in a digital economy. Our partnership with ensures students gain both technical competencies and the innovative mindset to become agile problem-solvers and drivers of national progress.' Vikraman Poduval, CEO of said: 'At we believe in the transformative power of technology to drive societal progress. By equipping Emirati students with practical AI skills and collaborating with public sector entities, we are fostering innovation as well as contributing to the UAE's vision of a sustainable and knowledge-based economy.' This partnership is aligned with HCT's 2023–2028 strategic vision, which prioritizes applied learning, industry engagement, and the development of future-ready graduates. It also reinforces HCT's role in delivering high-impact academic experiences that prepare Emirati students for the demands of an evolving global workforce. More broadly, the collaboration supports the UAE's national educational agenda and the UAE National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, which aims to position the country as a global AI leader. The strategy envisions integrating AI across sectors such as education, space, technology, energy, and transportation. Further demonstrating this commitment, the UAE will introduce AI across government school curricula, from kindergarten through Grade 12, beginning next academic year. This nationwide initiative is part of a long-term strategy to prepare future generations for the digital era. Globally, the AI industry is projected to reach a market value of USD 15.7 trillion by 2030. For the UAE, AI adoption is expected to boost GDP by 35 percent (USD 96 billion) and reduce government spending by nearly USD 3 billion through greater efficiency. This partnership represents a key milestone in aligning education with national priorities and empowering the next generation of Emirati innovators and leaders. About Higher Colleges of Technology: The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) is the UAE's largest applied higher education institution, committed to preparing Emirati youth for the future economy through hands-on, industry-aligned learning. Established in 1988, HCT operates campuses across the Emirates, offering a wide range of programs in engineering, business, health sciences, computer information science, applied media, and education. HCT serves as a key driver of economic growth and social impact through strategic partnerships with government, industry, and academia. Its leadership team champions institutional excellence, faculty transformation, and future-ready learning to empower graduates to lead in vital sectors and contribute to the nation's prosperity. About is a prominent leader in AI-cognitive solutions, helping businesses across various industries improve operational efficiency and drive innovation. With a suite of UAE-developed products and platforms—including DigiXT, Academy X, Dataprism360, and Market Hub—SAAL offers tailored solutions designed to drive digital transformation in sectors like defence, healthcare, oil and gas, smart cities and education. a part of the Abu Dhabi Capital Group (ADCG), is dedicated to harnessing the power of AI to help organisations streamline processes, enhance decision-making, and create more meaningful, compassionate futures for all.
The National
27-06-2025
- Business
- The National
Sheikh Hamdan unveils air quality plan and support for Emiratis in future job markets
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, on Thursday chaired the Dubai Executive Council meeting, with education and efforts to boost air quality high on the agenda. The council approved a project to attract top international universities to the emirate while putting together the Academic and Career Guidance Policy. This, Sheikh Hamdan said, will help Emirati students in future job markets with targeted academic and career support, setting a target that 90 per cent of all Emirati graduates will find employment within six months of graduation. Sheikh Hamdan also unveiled a long-term air quality plan as part of a broader drive to bolster the environment and improve quality of life. 'Today, I chaired The Executive Council meeting and approved a set of policies and strategies to reinforce Dubai's position as a global hub for education and future-ready talent,' he wrote on X. 'We approved a project to attract top international universities, aiming to position Dubai among the world's top 10 destinations for undergraduate and postgraduate students.' The aim is for international students to comprise 50 per cent of all university enrolments in Dubai by 2033. The higher education sector is also expected to contribute Dh5.6 billion to the emirate's GDP by this time, Dubai Media Office reports. The initiative aims to establish Dubai as one of the world's top 10 cities for students, with over 70 higher education institutions planned by 2033, including 11 ranked within the top 200 globally. To achieve this, the project sets out to improve student visa systems, new international scholarships, work visas for graduates, and introduce strategies to attract prestigious universities. 'Aligned with His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision for a knowledge-based economy, the project will be implemented in partnership with KHDA and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism,' Sheikh Hamdan added. 'We also approved the Academic and Career Guidance Policy to help Emirati students thrive in future job markets through targeted academic and career support.' A focus on the environment The Crown Prince of Dubai also revealed the approval of the Air Quality Strategy 2030, while also setting out plans for a new centre to mediate legal disputes. The clean air initiative follows a similar project announced in February, known as the Super Block initiative, which will target urban areas to make them more pedestrian-friendly. It is hoped that this will enhance quality of life, sustainability and boost social interaction between communities. It also aims to reduce carbon emissions by designating car-free residential areas and increasing green spaces. Areas such as Al Fahidi, Abu Hail, Al Karama, and Al Quoz Creative Zone will be the first to be boosted by the initiative. 'Enhancing quality of life remains a key priority. We approved the Air Quality Strategy 2030, which will be implemented by Dubai Environment and Climate Change Authority, in partnership with relevant entities, with the aim of fostering a healthy and safe environment for all,' he continued. 'During the meeting, we also approved the Dubai International Mediation Centre project to provide an efficient and transparent platform for alternative dispute resolution. 'We also approved the Governance Policy for Government Construction Projects to standardise procedures, enhance transparency, strengthen private-sector partnerships, and ensure efficient delivery and high-quality outcomes.'
