Dubai: H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence of the UAE, congratulated the first group of students selected for the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme.
During an orientation session at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan praised the Emirati students chosen for the 2024-25 academic year. “Today marks the beginning of a new journey for exceptional students who will pursue higher education at world-renowned universities through the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme, guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Dubai continues to shape its future by nurturing and investing in exceptional talent,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
After meeting with the scholars and the 2023-24 cohort of Emirati Top Achievers, Sheikh Hamdan expressed confidence in Dubai’s future, stating, “The dreams and aspirations of our scholars align with Dubai’s bold vision, and I am certain they will play a vital role in Dubai’s continued growth and success. Through this scholarship programme, we are developing the next generation of leaders who will contribute to our city’s development.”
The event also honored 40 top high school graduates under the Top Achievers programme and celebrated the 2024 graduating class of the Ruler’s Court Higher Education Scholarship. Sheikh Hamdan congratulated these students and their parents, expressing confidence in their continued journey of excellence.
Addressing the students, Sheikh Hamdan encouraged them to pursue knowledge and lifelong learning for the benefit of the community and the world. He also met with parents, praising their role in raising a generation of ambitious Emiratis capable of competing globally.
Aisha Miran, Chair of the scholarship programme’s steering committee, highlighted the programme’s aim to empower exceptional Emirati talent. “The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme aims to build capabilities and enhance leadership skills. We congratulate this distinguished cohort of high school graduates selected for the programme,” she said.
Miran added that the students’ academic specialisations and admissions to top universities globally reflect their commitment to excellence and shaping a prosperous future for the nation. The steering committee, in collaboration with partners, will provide continued support and mentorship throughout their academic journey.
A total of 321 students applied for the scholarship programme in its first year, with the selected scholars chosen after a rigorous evaluation process. The students will attend 30 universities in the UAE and abroad, pursuing 35 academic disciplines, including engineering, IT, business administration, health sciences, and the arts.
The Hamdan Bin Mohammed Scholarship Programme, launched as part of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 with an endowment of AED 1.1 billion, will provide 100 scholarships annually to outstanding Emirati students. The scholarship covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs. Applicants must hold a family book from Dubai and should not have any other scholarship offers.
Two key partnerships were also announced: one with the Ministry of Education to provide financial and academic services to students studying abroad, and another with IDP for university admission services for those wishing to study abroad.
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