The Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) and AW Rostamani Group (AWR Group) have introduced a comprehensive technical training programme to prepare Emirati talent for the automotive maintenance sector. This strategic private-sector partnership aims to equip students with hands-on skills for one of the UAE’s fastest-growing industries, directly supporting national economic needs.
The 12-month programme is tailored for high school graduates enrolled in HCT’s Mahara academic track. Designed for maximum educational and career flexibility, the curriculum allows participants to either enter the workforce directly or continue their studies toward a diploma.
Executing a strategic agreement signed between both parties in January 2026, the programme will be delivered by AWR Automotive, the automotive arm of AWR Group, and its AWR Automotive Academy. Its hybrid model integrates academic coursework with practical training to enable participants to master the theoretical knowledge and technical skills required to succeed as certified maintenance technicians.
Sara Almarzooqi, Director of Partnerships at HCT, said: “This initiative embodies HCT’s commitment to an educational model that seamlessly blends academic study with real-world application. By partnering with the private sector, we ensure our training programmes are built around actual industry requirements, equipping Emirati students with the hands-on experience they need to excel in the workforce.”
She added: “Our graduates’ outstanding performance in the workplace continues to build trust and drive high-value partnerships with leading national institutions like AWR Group. Together, we are creating a robust pipeline of highly qualified Emirati professionals for the national economy.”
Eman AlBastaki, Director of Emiratisation and Government Relations at AWR Group, said: "At AWR Group, we are committed to nurturing Emirati talent and supporting the UAE's vision for a skilled, future-ready workforce. Through this deepened partnership with HCT, we are providing a direct pathway from classroom to career, equipping our youth with the technical competencies and practical experience required to excel in the dynamic automotive maintenance environment. This initiative reflects our dedication to Emiratisation and our belief in the potential of young Emiratis to drive the future of mobility."
Classroom learning will take place at the AWR Automotive Academy in Sharjah, with specialised workshops held at the HCT Dubai Academic City campus. Participants will also undergo on-the-job training at various AWR Automotive sites under the mentorship of certified technicians, ensuring exposure to global professional standards.
This programme is the latest milestone in a strategic partnership established between HCT and AWR Group in 2023. Over the past three years, this collaboration provided 285 on-the-job training opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable experience at a leading national company before graduation. The alliance has achieved tangible results in developing national talent and aligning educational outcomes with real-world labour market demands, with numerous HCT graduates joining various business units within AWR Group.
Furthermore, the partnership has supported the development of industry-aligned learning infrastructure through the establishment of a specialised automotive workshop at the HCT Dubai Academic City campus. The two organisations have also introduced annual initiatives to recognise outstanding HCT graduates, further reinforcing their shared commitment to developing and celebrating Emirati talent.