1st Summer Training at Emirates Aluminium Completed

Twelve Emirati university students recently completed a summer training programme with Emirates Aluminium (EMAL). The talented students were invited to participate in the first Summer Training programme offered by the smelter.

The students represented a variety of majors, and each one had the opportunity to see how their chosen profession plays a role in the operation or administration of the facility. The on the job skills they received will benefit them once they return to the classroom to complete their education in the fall.

"We want to encourage and develop the skills of talented, Emirati undergraduate students so that they can enter the workforce better prepared for the workplace environment when they start their career life," said Radhwan Al Madani, Manager of Manpower Planning & Recruitment at EMAL.

The programme was launched in July and lasted two months. The programme gave the students the opportunity of open sessions with Vice Presidents and area managers, so they could optimise the benefits of this programme, and to widen their knowledge on each business function of the company.

"It was incredible," said Saif Marwan, a 20-year old student at Dubai Men's College. "Going to the potlines and experiencing the heat was unbelievable. Learning about the aluminium process and seeing the importance the employees play in the process was an awesome experience."

"I came here not knowing anything about the role switches play in a Local Area Network, but I was able to learn all about it here from EMAL's IT experts," said Yousuf Ahmad Sarhan – also from Dubai Men's College. "When I go back to college I'll have a basic understanding of their function, and I'll have experienced how fun the practical application of theory can be."

Since its inception, EMAL has established a strong track record of providing unique and advantageous Emiratisation opportunities for students and working professionals who are seeking for opportunities outside of the oil and gas sector.

"I applied for a job at EMAL and was offered the chance to participate in summer training programme beforehand to gain an understanding of the workplace environment at EMAL," said Mohamed Haidar Saeed Saif Al Marzouqi, a recent business administration graduate from the Higher Colleges of Technology. "It was very successful and well organized."