Dubai: Talented Emiratis who want to become part of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) can now train at the recently launched vocational centre called Dewa Academy.

The vocational academy, launched early this month in collaboration with the Business and Technology Education Council (BTEC), is aimed at training Emirati students through a programme that includes scientific workshops in a variety of fields related to Dewa’s activities. It is part of Dewa’s strategy to enhance and develop its employees and support the Emiratisation programme of the UAE government.

“As part of Dewa’s strategy to nurture our employees and promote our strategy for Emiratisation, we launch and support several training programmes for local citizens who wish to complete their studies within and outside the UAE,” Saeed Mohammad Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of Dewa, said.

“This is to prepare suitably qualified Emiratis who are able to compete in the labour market. The objective of our new initiative is to prepare as many Emirati students as possible to meet the needs of our technical divisions in various branches of Dewa,” he added.

Students who complete the course will be issued a certificate by BTEC. Graduates will also receive a certificate in technical and business studies equivalent to high school diplomas.

“The establishment of the Dewa Academy encourages research, scientific development, innovation, creativity, as well as opening doors for Emirati students to showcase their skills,” said Dr Yousuf Al Akraf, Executive Vice-President of Business Support and Human Resources.

The programme duration is three years to give participants a chance to improve their technical skills to enable them to start their careers. The course covers different subjects such as time management, planning and implementation, innovation and team work.

“The students will be trained by some of the best engineers and experts, who are accredited in the fields of electrical and mechanical engineering, maintenance, and operations. The programme will also guarantee for the graduates a job opportunity at Dewa,” Dr Al Akraf added.

Most of the classes and workshops will be held at the Dewa Head Office on Oud Metha Street. Interested applicants may visit www.dewa.gov.ae for more information.