Photo Credit : WAM
Sharjah Islamic Bank and the University of Sharjah have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in financial literacy, student development, practical training and talent acquisition, reinforcing efforts to prepare graduates for the evolving demands of the workforce.
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration between the two institutions, focusing on bridging the gap between academic learning and real-world professional experience. The partnership will support initiatives aimed at enhancing students’ career readiness while creating opportunities for internships, professional development and employment pathways.
The signing ceremony was attended by Mohamed Abdalla, Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Islamic Bank, and Prof. Esameldin Agamy, Chancellor of the University of Sharjah. The MoU was signed by Yaqoub Amir and Shihab Alhammadi.
Sharjah Islamic Bank said the partnership represents the first phase of a wider initiative to deepen collaboration with universities and colleges across the UAE. The programme reflects the bank’s commitment to developing national talent, promoting financial awareness and helping build a workforce equipped for the future economy.
Speaking on the occasion, Mohamed Abdalla highlighted the importance of connecting academic education with practical experience, noting that such partnerships play a key role in preparing qualified professionals for the rapidly changing banking and financial sectors. He added that the agreement would also expand opportunities for training, professional growth and talent recruitment.
Prof. Agamy said the partnership aligns with the vision of Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi to prepare Emirati talent in line with labour market needs. He described the agreement as an important step toward providing students and graduates with meaningful opportunities to gain industry experience and integrate into the financial sector.
Under the agreement, both parties will work together on internship and field training programmes, participation in career fairs, and specialised initiatives focused on graduate development and talent acquisition. The collaboration will also include lectures, workshops and awareness programmes covering financial literacy, banking awareness and consumer protection.
In addition, the two institutions will explore joint initiatives designed to strengthen students’ future professional skills and long-term career development. They will also assess opportunities to offer banking services and benefits tailored to university students, academic staff and administrative employees in line with approved policies.
The initiative forms part of Sharjah Islamic Bank’s broader efforts to enhance its social impact and contribute to the development of human capital through strategic partnerships that connect academic knowledge with professional practice.
