Strategic Partnership Enhances Engineering Scholarships for Emirati Students
In a major boost to higher education and Emiratisation efforts, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has partnered with Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA) to provide advanced engineering scholarships for Emirati students. The collaboration aims to align academic pathways with in-demand skills that drive national economic growth.
Public–Private Collaboration for Future-Ready Talent
The new agreement is part of the National Scholarship Programme and reflects the UAE’s vision to invest in its citizens through world-class education. The initiative will support students in priority disciplines such as mechanical and electrical engineering, with opportunities to study at globally recognised institutions.
As part of the partnership, MoHESR and EGA will:
- Jointly select top universities and relevant academic programmes
- Evaluate applications and identify candidates, including new and continuing students
- Align academic requirements with labour market needs
MoHESR will cover tuition fees and allowances, monitor students’ academic performance, and liaise with international education attachés to facilitate training and future employment.
Quotes from Leadership
H.E. Ahmad Ibrahim Alsaadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Higher Education Operations Sector and Director of the International Education Support and Scholarships Department at MoHESR, commented:
“The collaboration with EGA marks a significant step in building integrated academic and career pathways for Emirati students – from the selection of in-demand specialisations to employment within key sectors that drive the UAE’s economic progress. Our objective is to equip national talent with high-quality education in priority disciplines and support their transition to the workforce.”
He added:
“Our ongoing efforts to enhance the scholarship programme focus on aligning academic specialisations with the needs of national economic sectors. This approach fosters a culture of specialised employment, enabling students to succeed in the future job market.”
EGA’s Role in Shaping STEM Careers
EGA will contribute to the initiative by offering practical training, mentorship, and employment opportunities upon graduation. The company will also support career pathway design to ensure long-term career success.
Abdulnasser Bin Kalban, CEO of Emirates Global Aluminium, stated:
“Empowering UAE National talents is fundamental for the future growth of our national economy and industrial sector. Our collaboration with MoHESR is a step forward towards driving academic excellence to meet the dynamic workforce. At EGA, our goal is to develop future leaders in STEM for their critical role in building a knowledge-based economy.”
Seamless Transition from Study to Employment
A joint follow-up system will ensure continuous engagement with graduates. EGA will provide feedback on workplace readiness and help identify areas for further development in the scholarship programme.
This partnership represents a model for public-private cooperation in education, helping to position the UAE as a hub for skilled national professionals in engineering and science-led fields.
Visit the MoHESR website below to learn more
Further Reading:
- MoHESR updates recognition procedures for foreign higher education qualifications in line with Zero Government Bureaucracy programme
- MoHESR and KHDA partner to support scholarship students and streamline accreditation processes for Dubai’s higher education institutions