GE has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the University of Bahrain to work together to strengthen the skills of young Bahraini engineers and prepare them for advanced technical careers in the Gulf and wider region.

The strategic agreement underlines the spirit of industry-academic collaboration to promote training and applied research among Bahraini students, graduates and young professionals, and embed the necessary skills that are needed to enter the workforce both now and in the future, said a statement from GE.

A series of planned activities and programmes will be rolled out as part of the long-term agreement, whereby GE and the University of Bahrain will work to develop a vibrant research and development (R&D) ecosystem in the kingdom, while also promoting innovation and talent development amongst young Bahraini engineers, it said.

The two entities will work on educating, developing, and training mechanical, electrical, industrial and computer engineering students working across the digital, power and aluminium smelting sectors, it added.

As per the agreement, GE will support senior graduation projects with its resources and know-how, and provide training for Bahraini students to participate in hands-on industry experience, said a statement.

The technology giant will also provide summer internship opportunities for the students, and host joint seminars, short courses and workshops for the university’s students and Bahraini engineering professionals, it stated.

Prof Riyad Hamzah, president, University of Bahrain, said: “The deal with GE underlines our strong commitment to develop the skills of our engineering students and preparing them for the real and challenging requirements of industry today.”

“This aligns with the development goals of Bahrain’s economic vision, which places a strong emphasis on preparing our youth for future careers, especially in industries, which are integral to economic diversification and growth,” he said.

“This can be achieved through developing highly skilled, innovative and entrepreneurial graduates that create value for Bahrain. Our partnership with GE also signifies our intent as a national university to work with global players to establish Bahrain as a hub for high quality talent,” he added.

Joe Anis, president and CEO, GE Power Services, Middle East and Africa (MEA), said: “We have more than eight decades of presence in Bahrain, which is highlighted by strong industry partnerships and a commitment to promote local talent.”

“Digital industrial technologies are redefining the way industry operates, and it is important that we train our next generation of professionals on the real needs of industry,” he said.

“Through our collaborative efforts with the University of Bahrain, we aim to build a strong talent pool of young Bahraini professionals, who can assume technical and leadership roles in industry,” he added. – TradeArabia News Service