Dubai: The Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation Pioneer programme which aims to develop the academic capabilities of young talented people in the Arab world was launched on Monday.
The programme will offer some 100 scholarships to students to pursue their masters degree at selected universities across the region for the next academic year.
The scholarship covers the tuition fees and books for the full duration.
"As a pan-Arab initiative, the programme will provide equal opportunities to deserving students, while reversing the syndrome of brain drain, and preparing a future generation of leaders committed to progress," Dr Rima Khalaf, Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
The Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Pioneers Programme is the second scholarship programme announced by the foundation following the launch of the Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Fellows programme which offer distinguished students scholarships to pursue a masters degree at international universities.
Future generation
The Foundation's aim is to develop the knowledge and human capabilities of the Arab world and introduce a future generation of thought leaders in the region. It aims to achieve its strategic objectives through a wide array of pioneering projects and programmes in three main strategic areas: knowledge and education, culture, and entrepreneurship.
For the pioneer project the foundation has partnered with 13 universities in the UAE, Lebanon, Jordan, Egypt and Morocco.
Any Arab student with outstanding academic achievement, leadership potential and in financial need can apply for the scholarship. However, the focus of the scholarship will be in the fields of public and business management, journalism and mass communication.
Applications can be submitted online after securing an acceptance from an agreed field of study at one of the partner universities. Students also need to provide proof of their financial need to the foundation upon request, according to Karine Ataya, the manager of the project.
However, once students are awarded the scholarship, they have to undertake to work in one of the Arab League states for a two-year period once completing their education.
On the web: Just a click away
For application details, log onto www.mbrfoundation.ae
By Wafa Issa, Staff Reporter