Masdar Institute to highlight academic, research and outreach initiatives at Najah Career Fair and Exhibition 2012

Organized under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research, the sixth edition of Najah is scheduled to be held from 16-18 October at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Center (ADNEC). Masdar Institute will join various government departments and private organizations to seek talented UAE national graduates and emerging professionals as part of its commitment to building indigenous human capital.

The Theater at Masdar Institute pavilion in Najah 2012 exhibition will host recruitment presentations, faculty presentations and outreach activities. A reception area will focus on recruiting graduate students by offering them brochures and academic program-related materials, while the Human Resources department will respond to queries and interact with UAE nationals interested in a career with Masdar Institute. The Outreach and Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) section will aim to raise awareness and highlight Masdar Institute's outreach programs and activities.

Dr. Fred Moavenzadeh, President of Masdar Institute, said: "As an institution that is mandated to develop the R&D capabilities and the indigenous human capital, Masdar Institute considers Najah the right platform to showcase its academic, research and outreach offerings to attract local talent. As directed by the country's leadership, our efforts will remain focused on strengthening the knowledge sector, which serves as a key economic pillar for the UAE's progress. We are confident our participation will adequately attract qualified individuals for employment, as well as students who seek to pursue their academic interests in the sustainability sector."

In order to offer the right channel for the growth of promising UAE nationals, Masdar Institute offers summer training that focuses on developing capabilities and skills of local manpower. The research-based academic institution aims to equip the UAE youth with the knowledge and expertise they require, making them eligible to hold higher positions in any organization in the UAE.

Dr Lamya N. Fawwaz, Executive Director, Public Affairs, Masdar Institute, said: "Information on academic programs, scholarship options and research offerings as well as job placement opportunities at Masdar Institute will be provided at our pavilion. Further information about our outreach programs and activities, including the Young Future Energy Leaders (YFEL) and the Ektashif programs, as well as the summer internships, will also be available to visitors. Najah is a crucial platform for seeking talented and qualified students capable of becoming future energy leaders who can contribute to the clean energy industry."

Through various employment initiatives and a commitment to enhance the UAE's human capital, Masdar Institute plays an important role in the development of a sustainable knowledge-based economy in the UAE. The Human Resources Department at Masdar Institute has developed several Emiratization strategies among which is a one-year Fresh Graduate Program that targets students with high GPAs in various disciplines. Such students get an opportunity to develop professional skills and gain valuable work experience at Masdar Institute.

In coordination with local colleges and universities, summer internships are also offered for undergraduate students to develop skills and gain first-hand experience at one of the administrative departments. Additionally, work placement internships are offered in collaboration with local universities to provide hands-on professional experience and help them gain practical insight into the workplace ahead of graduation.

Established as an on-going collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Masdar Institute integrates theory and practice to incubate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, working to develop the critical thinkers and leaders of tomorrow. With its world-class faculty and top-tier students, the Institute is committed to finding solutions to the challenges of clean energy and climate change through education and research.