Edexcel opens new office in Dubai's Knowledge Village

The opening, attended by Director of Edexcel International, Rick Firth, and the Director of Knowledge Village, Dr Abdulla Al Karam, represents a further strengthening of Edexcel's presence in the Middle East.

Edexcel, through its international division, brings to the Middle East a diverse portfolio of globally recognised qualifications that span the academic and vocational sectors.

Edexcel International has now been present in the Middle East for six years, offering qualifications in both Arabic and English, tailor made to suit the needs of learners and organisations. In 2003 alone, over 69,000 students in the Middle East studied for Edexcel qualifications. In the UAE Edexcel International has been involved in a number of projects in support of Emiratisation, working with the Dubai Government, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and the Sharjah Institute of Technology, to develop qualifications that up-skill the local workforce to meet the country's growing needs.

Rick Firth, Director of Edexcel International, said: "The fast economic and technological development of the Middle East and growth of the global economy in the last few years has increased the need for internationally recognised qualifications at all levels. We are opening this new regional office to ensure we continue to invest in supporting our local partners in the delivery of high quality education programmes. Edexcel qualifications are recognised by universities and industries the world over and offer a vast choice of progression into higher education or local and international employment."

Dr. Abdulla Al Karam, Director of Knowledge Village said: "We welcome Edexcel International to the Knowledge Village community. With its wide range of vocational and academic qualifications, Edexcel will play an important role in creating a culture of lifelong learning and help bridge the talent gap in the region."