Dubai: Scotland’s prestigious Al Maktoum College of Higher Education proudly graduated its biggest ever group of overseas female students from the UAE and around the world.
A total of 74 students, chosen from universities across the Emirates, Egypt and Cairo, successfully completed the 2018 Summer School at the historic Dundee-based academy.
This was the 26th such educational program since the first ever Summer School of 2003 and so far seen over 1,200 students embrace the unique educational opportunities that the curriculum offered.
The Al Maktoum College of Higher Education is a registered charity that was created by Shaikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance, as part in keeping with his vision to empower Arab students and help shape their dreams.
The scholarships are totally funded by Shaikh Hamdan.
Since the college was launched in 2001, at a breath-taking century-old building in Dundee, it has been synonymous for providing an outstanding education program that is designed to create immense future career possibilities for rising graduates.
Mirza Al Sayegh, Chairman of the Al Maktoum College Board, who has long played a pivotal role in overseeing Shaikh Hamdan’s philanthropic leanings highlighted the commitment of the students during his address speech at a poignant graduation ceremony.
“When I look at you all at this moment, I see people who are determined, I see people who are talented, and I see people who are enthusiastic,” he said.
“It is my pleasure to say to you all: well done as you now go out and use the experience, knowledge, and understanding you have gained from this Summer School in your future studies and, of course, your careers.
“For many Summer School students I know this was your first time away from home. And that can be daunting. However, introducing students to the history, culture, and traditions of this proud and quite beautiful country is one of the key elements and strengths of the Summer School,” Al Sayegh added.
“To my dear students, it is with great pleasure I can say you are all excellent ambassadors of the Al Maktoum College, your university, families and above all, your country and leadership.
“I hope that you have had a wonderful time. I hope that your time with us in Dundee and Paris will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.”
Among students from the 17 representative universities with first times from the University of Fujairah; Hamdan Bin Mohammsd Smart University and Emirates National Oil Company.
Al Sayegh noted that the programmes offered by Al Maktoum College – the ATP and Summer School – have changed and developed, year in, year out.
“There is no standing still, no looking back, only looking ahead, And that is exciting.” he stressed.
“The female students undertaking our programmes value them, they welcome the challenges that are involved and they enjoy all the different aspects of the programmes.
“The Al Maktoum College team deserves much credit for the effort put into the programmes. They work tirelessly to get the best results from the minute the last programme is over.
It is worth repeating that in an ever-globalised world, the links between universities – based on knowledge, understanding, and clear thinking – are of continuing importance and urgency,” Al Sayegh noted.
One of the highlights of the summer and winter schools that the Al Maktoum College conducts is its focus on multiculturalism, diversity and leadership.
Present at the graduation ceremony were Lord Provost, Lord Elder, University Leaders and guests.
Participating University of the 2018 Summer School
1) Abu Dhabi Unversity
2) College of Arabic & Islamic Studies
3) British University in Dubai
4) Zayed University
5) American University of Sharjah
6) UAE University
7) University of Sharjah
8) Higher Colleges of Technology
9) Ministry of Interior – Police College
10) American University in Dubai
11) Paris-Sorbonne University
12) Shaikh Haman Medical Awards
13) ENOC
14) Hamdan Bin Mohammad Smart University
15) University of Fujairah
16) Malaya University
17) Cairo University
