15 February 2017
Collaboration establishes a Nursing & Allied Health Scholarship Program and clinical placement experience for UAE Nationals

Abu Dhabi – Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, part of Mubadala’s network of world-class healthcare providers, has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Fatima College of Health Sciences (FCHS), a subsidiary of Institute of Applied Technology (IAT). The purpose of the MoU is to enhance healthcare education of UAE National students by providing them the opportunity to gain practical clinical placement experience as part of their undergraduate degree. In line with the Government’s Vision 2030 to grow UAE National talent in various sectors, this partnership aims to increase the number of qualified Emiratis in healthcare. 

Waleed Al Mokarrab Al Muhairi, Mubadala Deputy Group CEO & Chief Executive Officer, Emerging Sectors, and Chairman, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, commented: “The partnership between Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Fatima College of Health Sciences is a testament of two prominent institutions joining forces to realize the country’s Vision 2030 of a knowledge-based economy pioneered by UAE Nationals. Together, we have created a platform for aspiring nurses in the UAE to springboard their careers into the healthcare sector, and eventually shape the talent and workforce in the UAE.”

Under the partnership, Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi will offer practical clinical placements as well as scholarships. After undergoing an interview process, successful applicants will be placed under the guidance of qualified supervisors to ensure a constructive practical learning experience. Internships such as these allow the application of theoretical knowledge in a clinical setting, providing students with a more holistic education. Those students who receive positive performance evaluations during internships and successfully complete the hospital’s recruitment process may be employed by Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi after graduation.

“FCHS was established to meet the UAE’s growing need for skilled healthcare professionals and we have an ambitious strategy to deliver on that aim. We are invested in building a world-class educational institution that focuses on a variety of health-related courses. As educators, we have an important role to play in creating learning opportunities that will not only grow quality talent but inspire passion for the healthcare industry and its professions. We are thrilled to partner with Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi to give our students real-world clinical experience at a renowned, specialized medical campus,” said Dr. Ahmed Al Awar, Managing Director, Institute of Applied Technology.

Dr. Ahmed Al Awar also called for health facilities in the country to tap into the skills and capabilities of FCHS students. He expressed FCHS’ readiness to cooperate with stakeholders to ensure the institution graduates quality healthcare professionals to meet the required skills in the UAE healthcare sector.

The MoU came into effect January 12, 2017. Currently, 75 FCHS students were shortlisted for interview. Following the interview stage, 5 students were hired and 15 were selected for sponsorship.

© Press Release 2017