Education and leadership programme takes road show to UAE public high schools

The 2008 road show is giving potential candidates for Bidaya - a joint venture between Zabeel Investments and Nakheel - the chance to interact directly with the founding team; understand the programme in full and meet with students from the previous year.

Amina Taher, Executive Director of Corporate Communications, Zabeel Investments and Bidaya founder, explained: "The first year of Bidaya was such an inspiring experience for all involved - from the students to the managing team. We are now looking to build on this and extend the programme's reach to encompass even more talented UAE students and in doing so, not only unlock their potential and provide them with opportunities otherwise unavailable to them, but also contribute to the development of the country.

This year the Bidaya road show has already attracted large audiences in Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Falaj Al Mualla and Ajman where over 450 students took part. During the next month the Bidaya team will be taking to the road to talk to even more UAE students from various public high schools across each of the seven Emirates and outlying towns. Students can take part in interactive sessions where they can talk about their future plans, ask questions, discuss career opportunities and learn about the top three UAE universities that they could enroll with through Bidaya.

When their studies allow it, current Bidaya students will also take part in the roadshow to offer insight on how their involvement in the programme has given them the opportunity to learn and grow in a field of their choice.

Mohamed Al Suwaidi, Bidaya Programme Manager said, "So far this year we've already met students who excited and intrigued by the Bidaya programme and eager for the application process to begin. As we travel to other locations across the UAE over the next few weeks, we're hoping to engage with even more talented and ambitious students who want to expand their skills, knowledge and experience by being enrolled in the programme."

To compliment the students' university study Bidaya also offers leadership development programmes to enhance student's leadership skills, and a mentor scheme giving students direct interaction with a professional who will share their experience, insight and wisdom.

Selection into the programme is based on several factors which include: demonstrated leadership, academic performance, financial situation, and future potential. 20 students will be selected each year following recommendations from public schools across the UAE. The panel responsible for selecting these students includes representatives from Zabeel Investments, Nakheel, community leaders, along with academic partners including the American University of Dubai and the American University of Sharjah.

The Bidaya Team had already visited the schools in Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Ajman and will visit the emirates of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, AD Western Zone and Fujairah in the coming two weeks.