Abu Dhabi, UAE – 07 August 2025: The Creative Media Authority (CMA) has signed new memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain University and Zayed University, alongside an extended agreement with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT). These partnerships mark a major milestone in CMA’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of creative talent in the UAE and building stronger bridges between education and employment.

In a key outcome of this collaboration, Abu Dhabi University, Al Ain University and HCT will formally award academic course merits to students participating in CNN Academy Abu Dhabi, demonstrating growing institutional confidence in CMA’s industry-led programmes and their ability to deliver hands-on, work-ready training. This step cements CNN Academy as an integral part of the academic journey and a valuable platform to accelerate career readiness, whilst ensuring CMA is able to nurture local talent in their formative years of education, integrating young talent into the wider creative ecosystem before they graduate.

These MOUs are part of CMA’s broader commitment to embed real-world creative exposure within the academic experience, ensuring students are not only equipped with technical skills but also immersed in a professional working environment where they can forge career-shaping relationships. With approximately 2,400 students across the four institutions, the partnerships will give access to CMA’s network of more than 800 creative companies, opening doors to internships, masterclasses, content development opportunities and project-based learning.

The talent development journey begins early, with students participating in outreach activities and community engagement workshops hosted at CMA’s Creative Lab space. These initial touchpoints offer exposure to the industry’s pace, mindset, and possibilities, creating a sense of familiarity and confidence that will serve students throughout their careers.

As the students’ progress, they will engage in technical training and masterclasses led by current leading creatives across a wide range of disciplines, from video editing and visual effects to radio production, short film development, digital marketing and more through the Arab Film Studio, CNN Academy Abu Dhabi and private sector partners. These practical learning experiences are designed to directly align with industry needs, preparing students to contribute meaningfully from day one.

Through this partnership, university alumni and active students will gain exposure to real project work by participating in CMA’s internship placement tracks: the Production Internship and the Creative Industry Internship. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience and help students develop the skills needed to pursue future career opportunities. In addition, students can take part in the Creative Community Project, which enables them to collaborate with industry professionals to produce original, authentic content. Together, these experiences help students build stronger portfolios and form meaningful connections in the industry.

Further opportunities include volunteering at major creative industry events, and participating in industry events such as career fairs, screenings, and speaker series. This holistic ecosystem of support and exposure gives students a competitive edge in the job market and builds a strong foundation for long-term success in the sector.

Aysha Al Jneibi, Director of Talent Management, Creative Media Authority said: "The youth of our nation are the architects of the creative industry of the future. By aligning with leading academic institutions and seeing initiatives like CNN Academy recognised by credit merit, we are creating tangible bridges between education and employment. This is about empowering our students with real tools, real connections and real opportunities.”

Alireza Haji Hosseini, Director of CNN Academy and Deputy Bureau Chief CNN Abu Dhabi, said: “CNN Academy’s ethos has always been about identifying and nurturing young journalists and content creators, equipping them with the skills and knowledge they need to build successful careers and fulfil their ambitions. That has led us to partner with some of the world’s most innovative educational institutions, forging connections across borders and cultures, and bringing students of different backgrounds together to collaborate and thrive in teams. We’re excited to continue building that network and to strengthen our connection with the education and creative communities in the UAE by integrating CNN Academy teaching into the academic programmes at these four universities.”

Professor Ghassan Aouad, Chancellor of Abu Dhabi University (ADU), said: “Our collaboration with the Creative Media Authority reflects a shared commitment to nurturing talent and empowering the next generation of storytellers, content creators, and digital innovators. Together, we aim to offer our students transformative learning experiences that combine academic excellence with hands-on industry exposure - equipping them with the tools to lead and inspire across the creative media landscape in Abu Dhabi and beyond.”

Dr. Amer Qassem, Vice President of Al Ain University commented: “This collaboration affirms the importance of building strategic partnerships between Al Ain University and leading local institutions. The Creative Media Authority is considered a strategic and pivotal partner for the College of Communication and Media at Al Ain University, contributing to aligning educational outcomes with the evolving demands of the labour market and preparing national talents capable of competing and innovating in the media sector. We highly value these valuable initiatives that contribute to preparing qualified media professionals who are capable of creativity and competitiveness in the labour market.“

Sumaya Abdulaziz Al Hosani, HCT Vice President for Strategy and Future, said: “At HCT, we are committed to equipping our students with the skills, experiences, and industry connections necessary to thrive in the evolving creative landscape. This strengthened partnership with the Creative Media Authority will provide our media students and graduates with unparalleled access to real-world training, professional certification, and direct pathways into the creative industries. By bridging the gap between academia and the private sector, we are ensuring that our students are not only prepared for the workforce but also empowered to drive innovation and creativity in the UAE.”

Professor Michael Allen, Acting Vice President of Zayed University, said: “This partnership with the Creative Media Authority opens new pathways for Zayed University students to engage with Abu Dhabi’s vibrant creative industries and leading local and international organisations such as the Arab Film Studio and CNN Academy. Through hands-on initiatives and access to CMA’s extensive network, we aim to prepare our graduates to shape the future of the UAE’s creative landscape with confidence and creativity.”