ABU DHABI // The second part of a roadshow to attract Emirati students to the aerospace industry is under way.
Nearly 500 people have taken part in the nationwide tour, run by Mubadala Aerospace at educational institutes such as United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) in Al Ain and the American University of Sharjah.
This month there will be visits to campuses including the Higher Colleges of Technology in Ras Al Khaimah and Khalifa University in Abu Dhabi - the country's only institution offering degrees in aerospace engineering from bachelor's to doctorate level.
UAEU will soon begin offering aerospace specialisms, but for now students are being sponsored by Mubadala Aerospace and its partners to study the subject abroad.
The roadshows aim to raise awareness of job opportunities in the emerging industry as Abu Dhabi diversifies its economy beyond oil and gas.
Prof Reyadh Mehaideb, dean of the college of engineering at UAEU, said the roadshows had expanded the students' perception of the aerospace industry.
"A good number of our students have secured internships and employment opportunities through UAEU's collaboration with Mubadala Aerospace," he said.
Michael Rjeily, the director of UAEU's career and placement centre, said such collaborations were vital for students to explore future career opportunities.
"Through this event our students are becoming more engaged in the country's future vision and employment directions, which is a crucial step for them in choosing the correct majors that are in line with the nation's needs," Mr Rjeily said.
"Such initiatives help us to enhance our students' professional development and growth and prepare them for life after graduation."
