DUBAI: The Rochester Institute of Technology "RIT Dubai", one of the world's leading universities, signed today a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Aluminum Company (DUBAL), to offer specialized postgraduate degrees and advanced graduate certificates to the employees of the world's seventh largest producer of primary aluminum and the UAE's industrial flagship, Dubal.

The MoU was signed by Dr. Mustafa AG Abushagur, President of RIT Dubai, and Marwan Al Sawaleh, General Manager of Human Resources, DUBAL.

The specialized programs will target employees in the departments of Finance, Human Resource Development, Service Leadership and Innovation, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, as well as Network and Systems Administration. In addition, Advanced Graduate Certificates of international standards will also be offered to staff members of DUBAL in Computer Information Assurance and Project Management.

Dr. Mustafa Abushagur, RIT Dubai President, said: "Over the past 180 years, the Rochester Institute of Technology has successfully developed leaders in various educational and industry disciplines. We feel honored to offer higher professional education to DUBAL employees through the MoU, which reflects our commitment to forge strategic alliances with top global performers."

"When entering into an alliance, it is crucial for both partners to share common goals, interests and vision. Our collaboration exemplifies the emphasis DUBAL places on educational development and investment in human capital. We are delighted to collaborate with DUBAL and transfer our applied knowledge and skill sets to their team of professionals."

In addition to higher education, the collaboration between RIT Dubai and Dubal aims to promote talent, while facilitating community participation in areas of mutual interest.

Commenting on this agreement, Marwan Al Sawaleh said: "At DUBAL, we consider associates as the nucleus of our operations and nurturing their talent is imperative to future growth. We have formed the strategic alliance with RIT Dubai to endow our staff with advanced industry know-how and innovative skills. RIT Dubai has been our partner of choice and we are delighted to be associated with one of the best academic institutions in the world."

"We believe RIT Dubai's programs will enable DUBAL professionals at various departments to raise the bar on individual performance levels for delivering tasks of enhanced standards."

Located in the centre of Dubai Silicon Oasis, RIT Dubai aims to transform the conventional meaning of education through offering specialized degrees and flexible course schedules, as well as applied teaching techniques to students as well as industry professionals.

Surrounded by state-of-the-art office towers, research and development zones, educational institutions, luxury apartments, villas, hotels, healthcare services and a full spectrum of lifestyle facilities, students at the 7.2sqkm master-planned community will enjoy access to premium facilities that enhances their educational experience.