First Gulf Bank establishes 'First Gulf Bank Professor of Business' at Higher Colleges of Technology

The agreement was signed in Abu Dhabi by HE Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahayan, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Chancellor of the Higher Colleges of Technology and Andre Sayegh, Chief Executive Officer, First Gulf Bank.

The three year commitment by FGB is to sponsor a Professor of Business who will work with other department chairs and faculty throughout the HCT 16 campus system. The Professor will promote best practices, monitor and improve academic standards, evaluate student performance, facilitate faculty development, and develop relationships across the system and the community.

"Good education is the cornerstone of any country's future. At FGB, we strive to set standards of excellence, explore new opportunities and pursue innovation,"said Andre Sayegh, Chief Executive Officer, FGB.

Sayegh added, "It is our constant endeavor to develop UAE Nationals across all levels through various initiatives, including sponsoring young nationals for higher education. We encourage our nationals to pursue higher education and also enhance their skill levels through continuous training and focused talent development centers."

"We are delighted to join hands with HCT and become a member of the HCT Foundation 100 Club. By our support, HCT will have an additional partner committed to promote quality business programs to UAE nationals. This is yet another move that underscores our commitment to the community, as the new partnership will allow the UAE nationals to increase their skills and positively contribute in the positive growth of the UAE," concluded Sayegh.

As part of its 20th anniversary initiative the Higher Colleges of Technology established in 2008 the HCT Foundation with a mandate to provide partnership opportunities for the corporate sector. In just one year, the Foundation has added 28 companies who made significant gifts to its 100 Club.

"The HCT aims to provide the highest quality business programs to our students. The support of First Gulf Bank enables HCT to enhance its Business Program. This person will be a part of a team which will produce graduates with a strong foundation in the field of business. We are pleased FGB has joined a growing list of HCT Foundation supporters,"

stated Dr Tayeb Kamali, Vice Chancellor of the HCT.