The programme coincides with the UAE’s push for AI leadership under Its 2031 strategy
The prestigious London School of Emerging Technology (LSET) has unveiled an exciting new initiative for aspiring Emirati professionals: the LSET Work-Integrated Learning (LWIL) Programme. This six-month, UK-based opportunity is tailored specifically for international students offering them an intensive combination of advanced AI courses, cybersecurity training, and real-world professional experience through paid internships. Coincidentally, the programme aligns closely with the UAE’s strategic ambitions to become a global leader in artificial intelligence and digital innovation.
As the UAE accelerates its digital transformation under the UAE Strategy for Artificial Intelligence 2031, the country is placing major emphasis on developing a highly skilled workforce equipped to lead AI research, deployment, and ethical governance. The LSET LWIL Programme has been carefully crafted to directly align with these national goals. By offering a pathway to gain cutting-edge AI knowledge and cybersecurity expertise in the United Kingdom, LSET aims to help UAE students build globally competitive capabilities that can be brought back to strengthen the nation’s growing tech sector.
One of the most distinctive features of the LWIL Programme is its structure, which blends academic instruction with workplace experience. Instead of pursuing long-term academic study abroad, participants are enrolled in a condensed, six-month format that includes hands-on internships with UK-based tech companies, startups, and SMEs. This dual approach ensures students are not only learning in the classroom but actively applying their knowledge in real business environments.
“Our aim is to support students by equipping them with global exposure and job-ready skills in AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and Enterprise Software Development, enabling learners from the UAE to play an active role in advancing the nation’s vision for digital transformation and technological leadership,” said Mayur Ramgir, AI expert and Principal Instructor at LSET.
The academic component of the programme is delivered through LSET’s state-of-the-art Innovation Lab. Here, students are immersed in high-impact AI courses that cover the latest developments in machine learning, natural language processing, data-driven automation, and scalable AI solutions. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the evolving nature of AI technologies and addresses the ethical and practical challenges of real-world implementation.
These academic experiences prepare students to work on AI projects that support sectors such as smart cities, public services, fintech, and national security, key focus areas of the UAE’s AI strategy.
Complementing the AI curriculum is a rigorous cybersecurity training module. Students learn advanced concepts such as digital forensics, ethical hacking, penetration testing, and robust security architecture. This dual emphasis on AI and cybersecurity is vital to the UAE’s ambitions, as the integration of secure AI systems is essential for protecting national infrastructure and maintaining public trust in digital services.
The LWIL Programme also includes extensive career development support. Participants receive mentorship throughout their internships to help them navigate the UK workplace culture and contribute effectively to team projects. Additional career services include CV development in UK format, preparation for international job interviews, and guidance on building a professional portfolio. These elements are designed to make students more employable and confident as they return to the UAE with valuable international exposure.
Importantly, the programme offers a streamlined visa process via the UK’s Government Authorised Exchange (GAE) scheme. This visa route allows students to travel to the UK for temporary training without the need for a long-term academic visa.
All sponsorship and compliance are handled through JENZA, the organisation that delivers the BUNAC sponsorship. This ensures students can focus on their training and internship experience without facing complex visa hurdles.
The UAE has made substantial investments in becoming a leading global player in artificial intelligence. Through government initiatives, public-private partnerships, and institutional reforms, the country is creating an ecosystem that attracts innovation and nurtures AI talent. However, one of the key challenges remains building a domestic pipeline of AI experts who are globally aware and technically proficient. The LWIL Programme directly addresses this gap by offering UAE students the chance to gain real-world AI and cybersecurity experience in one of the world’s leading technology hubs.
In addition to students who travel specifically for the LWIL Programme, LSET also offers part-time certifications in AI and cybersecurity for UAE nationals already studying in the UK. These part-time options can be pursued alongside university degrees and grant access to the same Innovation Lab resources and project-based learning, providing a flexible way for more students to benefit from LSET’s expertise.
Applications for the LWIL Programme are now open and operate on a rolling admission basis. Seats are limited for each quarter to ensure quality placements and sufficient visa processing time. Selection is based on academic merit, English language proficiency, and readiness for international work experience.
The launch of the LWIL Programme represents a strategic step forward in global educational collaboration, allowing Emirati students to gain valuable international experience while supporting the UAE’s AI and cybersecurity workforce development. As the UAE continues to position itself at the forefront of technological advancement, initiatives like LSET’s LWIL Programme are crucial in preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators.
To learn more about the programme or submit an application, interested students and institutions can visit lset.uk or contact the LSET admissions office directly.
With its blend of advanced AI courses, cybersecurity immersion, and real-world work experience, the LWIL Programme stands as a unique and forward-looking opportunity. It empowers UAE students to not only advance their careers but also contribute meaningfully to their nation’s digital future.
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