Abu Dhabi: The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) has forged a partnership with Etihad Airways to bolster the National Scholarship Programme. This initiative aims to provide scholarships in key areas of study, facilitating a direct pathway for students to secure careers with one of the nation's leading aviation firms.
According to Emirates News Agency, this collaboration signifies a progressive step in MoHESR's mission to refine scholarship strategies through alliances with prominent public and private sector organizations. The partnership is designed to enable Emirati students to pursue degrees in selected fields at prestigious international institutions.
Both MoHESR and Etihad Airways will work together to determine target universities, countries, and specialisations, as well as establish selection criteria. In addition to academic opportunities, students will receive vocational training and career guidance, equipping them for future roles in strategic sectors at Etihad Airways, such as aviation, engineering, and logistics.
Ahmad Ibrahim Alsaadi, Acting Assistant Undersecretary for the Higher Education Operations Sector and Director of the International Education Support and Scholarships Department at MoHESR, emphasized the ministry's commitment to developing skilled national talent. He highlighted the significance of public-private partnerships in creating an educational framework that prepares students for the future labor market.
Dr. Nadia Bastaki, Chief People, Government, and Corporate Affairs Officer at Etihad Airways, reiterated the airline's dedication to nurturing Emirati talent. She noted that the partnership with MoHESR aligns education with industry needs, merging academic learning with practical experience to prepare students for future challenges in aviation and enhance the UAE's global competitiveness.
MoHESR will monitor students' academic progress and manage exceptional cases, while Etihad Airways will provide comprehensive support, including hands-on training and career guidance. The airline will also design career paths with training programmes before and after graduation.
The partnership includes a post-graduation follow-up process involving data sharing and feedback to evaluate the programme's impact and identify areas for improvement for future student cohorts.