Microsoft, UAE University and du empower students with .Net Club launch

The program, which will provide students with access to the latest technology, training and software, was announced in conjunction with du, the new telecom operator in the UAE, who signed a partnership agreement with Microsoft on 12th March 2007 to sponsor the scheme.

Microsoft .NET clubs have been established in universities and colleges around the globe with the aim of creating a community that helps students to build bridges with the IT industry and to develop their own interest in technology and software development. Students at UAE University who join the Club will be able to access the Microsoft Developers Network Academic Alliance, which gives them free access to the latest development tools, operating systems, server software, documentation, and technical references.

du's partnership with Microsoft .NET clubs includes providing tools for quality learning and regular updates on technology trends. du will also create an interactive environment wherein the .NET club students have access to du IT experts and can benefit from their knowledge and expertise.

"Many students leave university with minimal experience of the work experience and the challenges their chosen industry faces," explained Dr Hesham el-Sayed, assistant professor, UAE University. "We are offering them, through this partnership with Microsoft, a chance to realize their full potential through a Club that will give them access to the IT industry, major players within it and the chance to learn from them and their peers."

The students will join a regional and international community of .NET clubs that exchange experience and knowledge online, and will also be able to leverage Microsoft's support for working on .NET related projects and arranging and participating in industry events.

"Microsoft's vision is of a campus presence where students from different backgrounds and interests, connected by a love of innovation and technology, interact on topics that are relevant to their lives and the realization of their own potential," commented Charbel Fakhoury, General Manager, Microsoft Gulf. "As a company we are committed to the growth of skills within our future generation and equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed. Our partnership with UAE University and du has provided us with another platform from which to achieve this goal."

An internship program attached to the .Net Club enables Microsoft to help graduate students find employment and fit into the workplace with ease. Similarly members will benefit from participation in summer training courses and entrance into the Microsoft Imagine Cup competition.

"The business world has a responsibility to foster the talent within the student community," commented Osman Sultan, CEO, du. "Our vision at du is to connect, inspire and reward people. The .Net Club initiative meets each of these objectives fully through the connection of students with likeminded peers and the IT industry; inspiring students by fostering their creativity and rewarding them with opportunities they would not otherwise get."

Microsoft launched the first .Net Club with Dubai Women's College (DWC) in April 2006 and currently runs seven across the region.