NMC and ADU cooperate to provide media training for Emirati students

The National Media Council, NMC, and Abu Dhabi University, ADU, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance cooperation and partnership between the two institutions in areas of mutual interest and expertise.

The MoU aims to boost efforts in developing media and communication skills, enhancing the capabilities of national cadres and empowering communications students. It is a reflection of the keenness of both parties to provide better education and training opportunities for Media students. It also aims to enhance cooperation in scientific research, undertake joint activities and projects that support national initiatives, and provide media training for UAE national journalists.

Mansour Al Mansouri, Director-General of the National Media Council, and Dr. Terry Motiuk, Vice Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, signed the Memorandum on the University campus, and the signing was attended by Ali Saeed Bin Harmal Al Dhaheri, Chairman of Abu Dhabi University's Executive Board and Mohamed Jalal Al Rayssi, Executive Director of Emirates News Agency.

Mr. Al Mansouri stressed the importance of developing a national media cadre and providing them with the necessary practical training in order to complement their theoretical learning. He added that such initiatives would help them match their output with the highest standards of responsibility and professionalism in a way that meets the needs of the local, regional and international markets.

Al Mansouri added that the National Media Council would develop a sustainable training plan aimed at developing the skills and capabilities of the trainees and improve the level of their competitiveness. "Practical training will enable the students to discover their strengths and weaknesses. It is an essential pillar in academic programmes in developed countries," he said.

Dr. Terry Motiuk, Vice Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University, explained that the signing of the MoU reflected ADU’s keenness to establish strategic cooperation with various government agencies and private institutions to achieve its goals in preparing specialised cadres for the future who will aid the national development process.

"This collaboration will also be a great opportunity for students, faculty and researchers at Abu Dhabi University to benefit from the rich sources of information and field studies exclusively accessible to the National Media Council. We’re looking forward to the fruitful results of this cooperation, especially as it involves opportunities of both internship and possible employment, for Abu Dhabi University students pursuing the Bachelor of Mass Communication in Arabic or English at ADU," he added.

The two sides also agreed that the National Media Council would coordinate with media organisations in the country to take advantage of the scholarships provided by Abu Dhabi University to a number of students who wish to pursue a BA Degree in Mass Communication or a Master's Degree.

The two parties also agreed to coordinate their efforts to guarantee the execution of the council programmes concerning the provision of professional specialised training for national journalists who are willing to develop and improve their skills and knowledge in fields that will be specified at a later date.