Saud Bin Saqr Media Scholarship Programme Celebrates Second Cohort Of Graduates At AURAK

The Saud bin Saqr Media Scholarship Programme recently held its second graduation ceremony at the American University of Ras Al Khaimah (AURAK). The event celebrated 15 students who completed a five-week training course. This initiative, inspired by H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, aims to develop future broadcasters and content creators to enhance the region's global presence.

Launched in 2023, the programme is supported by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research and the Ras Al Khaimah Government Media Office (RAKGMO). It offers a mix of practical and academic training, with workshops on voiceover performance and content pitching led by industry experts. Students also learn digital journalism, production, and storytelling techniques.

This year introduced a new element: a two-week strategic partnership with the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAK TDA). Students gained practical experience by creating videos that showcased local stories and tourism initiatives. These projects ranged from sustainable farming to heritage and community-driven efforts.

Director-General of RAKGMO, Heba Fatani, remarked, "These graduates exemplify the excellence, commitment and creativity that inspired the launch of the Saud bin Saqr Media Scholarship Programme. We remain steadfast in our mission to nurture the next generation of skilled media professionals."

This year's programme attracted participants from various nationalities within the UAE, including those from South Asia and Eastern Europe. This diversity enriches the learning environment and reflects the programme's global reach.

Dr. Natasha Ridge, Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, commented on the programme’s alignment with their mission. She stated it embodies a creative, collaborative approach that builds students' knowledge and skills. "We look forward to the positive contribution these students will make to Ras Al Khaimah’s future," she added.

AURAK's Commitment to Media Excellence

Dr. Imad Hoballah, Vice President for Institutional Advancement and External Relations at AURAK, highlighted the university's dedication to media education excellence. He noted that this ceremony signifies AURAK’s commitment to fostering media talent and digital creativity in Ras Al Khaimah.

The programme continues to position Ras Al Khaimah as a hub for media talent development. By equipping students with essential skills, it contributes significantly to enhancing both local and international media landscapes.

With inputs from WAM