du, a leading telecommunications provider from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), recently hosted a two-day educational visit for Emirati interns in collaboration with Huawei, highlighting their commitment to Emiratisation and youth engagement. This initiative underscores du’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of Emirati talent and aligns with the UAE’s strategy for sustainable employment and professional development.
The event welcomed students from top universities, including the American University in Dubai, Zayed University (Abu Dhabi and Dubai campuses), the Higher College of Technology, the University of Dubai, and the United Arab Emirates University. This diverse group of students had the opportunity to explore real-world applications of their studies, experience professional environments, and interact with leading industry experts.
Fatema Al Afeefi, Head of Employee Experience & HR Digitalization at du, remarked, “This initiative with Huawei demonstrates our commitment to the UAE’s socio-economic growth and national development. We aim to provide students with insights into our operations, expose them to various career paths within the telecommunications sector, and possibly influence their academic interests towards these professions. By aligning young talent with market demands, we are not only guiding them towards fulfilling careers but also contributing significantly to the UAE’s knowledge economy.”
Jacky Zhang, Board Director of Huawei UAE, stated, “Huawei is proud to strengthen our strategic partnership with du through this initiative, which empowers Emirati youth. By offering practical experience in the telecommunications industry, we aspire to inspire their future careers and support the growth of the UAE’s knowledge-based digital economy. This collaboration reflects our commitment to developing young Emirati talent and fostering innovation in the region.”
The educational visit began at du’s headquarters in Dubai Hills, followed by a session at Dubai Academic City. The tailored itinerary provided students with a comprehensive view of du’s operations and the broader telecom industry, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
The Student Visit Program is a crucial element of du’s strategy to integrate Emiratisation and youth engagement into its core operational philosophy. By partnering with local educational institutions, du and Huawei demonstrate a shared vision for a future where Emirati youth are empowered to lead in innovation and technological advancement.