Emirates Neon answers UAE school's appeal for design course help

The company has supplied the school's Design and Technology Centre with refurbished signs, to be used as teaching aids, after being approached by the college's Head of Design and Technology, Don Sankey.

"Driving along the Sheikh Zayed Road I wondered what happened to the old advertising signs when they were replaced. I got in touch with Emirates Neon and during a visit to their factory they agreed to supply a number of signs and other materials which can be used by the students," said Sankey.

"Now, when I talk to the students I can use physical examples to stimulate their interest and visibly demonstrate the important role design plays in our lives."

As well as supplying unused material, Emirates Neon has agreed to host student visits to its factory during the new school year. Sankey is also confident the firm will join the college's work experience programme.

"It is vitally important companies, such as Emirates Neon, get involved with local schools. It is of enormous benefit to the students, who get practical experience in the work place. Meanwhile, firms broaden their recruitment base by engaging the interest of prospective employees at a young age," said Sankey.

Emirates Neon's Executive Director Rehan Merchant, himself a former design and technology student when at school, understands the key role hands-on experience plays in educating designers of the future.

"By helping to stimulate the interest of students in the function of design we are not only fulfilling our social role in the community but also ensuring a bright future for the industry," said Merchant. "If some of the students consider the signage or graphic design sector as a possible career then that will be a bonus."