The Industry Nationalisation Department of Dubai College of Tourism (DCT) has concluded its Medyafvirtualsummer training programme. The programme, which took place from July 4 to August 5 2021, saw the participation of74 Emirati students between the ages of 16-20.

Medyaf, the industry nationalisation initiative was established as part of DCTto lay the groundwork for talented Emiratis to join the city’s tourist-facing workforce. The latest training programme aims to empower students to enhance their knowledge and skills over the summer period, while earning a training certificate. This year’s programme included live workshops delivered by expert speakers, as well as a series of interactive games and educational activities.

Mariam Al Maeeni, Director, Industry Nationalisation, DCTdelivered a closing note, thanking the participants and wished them success. She alsoreiteratedDCT’s commitment to train students in line with the College’s strategy to invest in Emirati students and develop their knowledge and skills during the summer vacation, while introducing them to the diverse and impactful roles within the tourism sector.

A number of students expressed their thoughts on their experience atMedyaf’s summer training programme. Fatima Al Yamahi, an 18-year-old student at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU), said her experience with Medyaf was a great investment of her time and effort, as it helped her develop her communication skills, which is key when dealing with customers. Al Yamahi encouraged other young students to participate in the variety of courses offered by the Medyaf initiative, as they help broaden participants’ horizons and enhance their knowledge about the various fields provided by the UAE to its citizens.

Asmaa Al Afifi, a 20-year-old university student, said: “I dedicated my summer vacation to attending Medyaf’s summer training programme, which offered a rich source of information through hands on training, activities and workshops. This course taught me a number of transferable skills and how to apply what I learned in real life scenarios.”

Al Afifi advised young people to join the programme for its role in preparing them for the future, and its consistency with the UAE’s plans and objectives to develop the tourism sector.