Emirati students offered 'unique opportunities' through scholarships

Emirati students who study disciplines that are "most required to meet labour market needs" are eligible for Adec scholarships, according to state news agency Wam.

ABU DHABI/ / Emirati students interested in university scholarships that require them to study in-demand disciplines have attended information sessions held by the Abu Dhabi Education Council.

The council (Adec) organises the sessions each year to help Emirati high school students learn about the opportunities available to them, according to Wam, the state news agency.

Students who study disciplines that are "most required to meet labour market needs" are eligible for special scholarships.

Wam did not say what disciplines are included.

The sessions were held for Grade 12 Students in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi and the Western Region.

To be eligible for the scholarships, students must be nationals with a minimum average of 85 per cent in Grade 12. They must also undergo an interview and commit to studying a "priority area" at university, Wam said.

At university, they must maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average.

Students who satisfy those conditions receive monthly stipends and help from Adec to secure jobs after graduation.

Last year, the Abu Dhabi Executive Council approved a budget increase of Dh197 million for the scholarship programme, to bump up the number of scholarships given over the next four years.

"The scholarship programme is designed to provide human capital necessary for contributing to socio-economic development," said Dr Eisa Al Matroushi, Adec's guidance and scholarship division manager, according to Wam.

"Unique opportunities are offered by Adec in collaboration with partner government institutions."