Emirati Media Talent Pledge: Dubai Media Council Provides Students With Real-World Experience In Media

The Dubai Media Council (DMC), in partnership with Dubai Chambers and the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT), has initiated a program to provide Emirati media students with practical experience. This initiative, part of the Emirati Media Talent Pledge, aims to blend academic learning with real-world exposure, allowing students to engage in international media coverage and content production.

During their mission, the students assisted Dubai Chambers at two significant forums: ‘Doing Business with Georgia’ in Tbilisi and ‘Doing Business with Armenia’ in Yerevan. These events took place earlier in October. The students were involved in producing content, managing on-site coverage, and handling media relations for these high-level gatherings.

Saif Al Suwaidi, Project Manager at DMC, highlighted the importance of this initiative. "The Emirati Media Talent Pledge reflects our ongoing efforts to empower young Emirati media professionals and provide them with meaningful, hands-on experiences in the industry. By collaborating with Dubai Chambers and HCT, we are helping transform academic learning into real professional opportunities, preparing students to tell compelling stories about the UAE’s sustainable development journey and its rise on the global stage both at home and abroad."

The collaboration is designed to support DMC's vision of nurturing future media professionals by providing them with opportunities to translate classroom learning into professional skills. This effort also aims to strengthen partnerships that enhance Dubai’s status as a hub for media innovation and talent development.

Sumaya Alshamsi from Dubai Chambers emphasised their commitment to empowering young Emiratis across various fields, including media. "At Dubai Chambers, we are committed to supporting initiatives that empower young Emiratis across a wide range of fields, including the media sector, which remains an essential partner in showcasing the strength of Dubai’s economy. Our collaboration with the Dubai Media Council and the Higher Colleges of Technology reflects the value of strong institutional partnerships in equipping the next generation of media professionals with the skills and awareness needed to keep pace with Dubai’s economic momentum and growing influence in global markets."

The participating students expressed gratitude for this opportunity. They gained insights into how media teams document significant trade and investment events that highlight Dubai's leadership globally.

Real-World Learning Opportunities

Dr. Rachel Bentley from HCT noted that such collaborations offer students valuable real-world experience. "Through collaborations like this, our students gain the opportunity to apply what they have learned in real-world professional environments, sharpening their storytelling, content production, and communication skills. These experiences are integral to our applied education model, ensuring our graduates are not only job-ready but also equipped with the creativity, adaptability, and strategic thinking required to contribute effectively to the nation’s development and its growing global presence."

This initiative was launched under directives from H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum during the Arab Media Forum last year. Implemented by the Dubai Press Club alongside private-sector media organisations, it offers mentorships and training for Emirati media students.

The program underscores DMC's dedication to developing a skilled national media workforce capable of leading future industry growth while supporting Dubai's vision for economic advancement through strong institutional partnerships.

With inputs from WAM