British Council and the UAE Higher Colleges of Technology sign MoU to develop English and leadership skills amongst UAE nationals

The MoU was signed during a meeting held in Abu Dhabi between HE Sheikh Nahayan bin Mubarak Al Nahayan, UAE Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, and the Chief Executive of the British Council, Mr Martin Davidson, during his two-day visit to the UAE.

Speaking about the MoU, Mr Davidson, Chief Executive of the British Council, said:

'The British Council is delighted to be working alongside the HCT in areas of strong mutual interest and which will make an important contribution to the continued success of the UAE and the leadership role of Emiratis. This agreement formalises our existing relationship with the HCT, with whom we have enjoyed a very close working relationship for many years. Our work in the Middle East continues to be very important to the British Council and the relationship with the UAE serves as a role model for what can be achieved through close collaboration'.

Mr Paul Sellers, UAE Country Director of the British Council, added: 'Under the terms of this MoU, the British Council will work with the HCT on facilitating the promotion and development of the English language and best practice in English language assessment. In addition, we will jointly foster leadership skills in UAE nationals and facilitate the creation of links and exchanges between UK educational institutions and HCT. The British Council will work with the HCT on research and innovation projects of direct relevance to the GCC, and the UAE in particular; and the HCT will host a number of joint cultural and educational events'.

In addition to signing the MoU, Mr Davidson undertook a series of meetings with UAE Government Ministers, visited a school in Abu Dhabi and was the guest of honour at the Official Awards Ceremony of the UAE IT Challenge, held at Abu Dhabi Women's College of HCT; He attended a special guitar recital performance by Eduardo Niebla on the evening of April 20th at the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi.

In Dubai on April 21st, Mr Davidson opened the 'Learning from the Future' workshop, which is being held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai; whilst in Dubai, Mr Davidson will also pay calls on the Knowledge & Human Development Authority and the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation.