Injazat Data Systems, a leading Information Technology (IT) and business process managed services provider in the UAE, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) - the largest institution of higher learning in the UAE - in support of its long-term Emiratisation strategy. Under the terms of the MOU, Injazat and HCT will collaborate on capacity building initiatives and programs to help HCT students develop skills and careers in the IT services industry. In 2011 both parties successfully partnered on a number of internship programs for HCT students that focused on specific areas in Workplace Operations, Network Security and Application Development. Students gained valuable workplace experience and on-the-job-coaching provided by Injazat Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) and under the guidance of the Injazat Institute (Ti2), to further support their academic studies.  Internship candidates had the opportunity to spend 4 to 8 weeks at Injazat’s Premier Data Center — the Middle East’s first Tier IV design-certified data center — to have exposure to state of the art technologies servicing clients and allowing them to gain operational experience that will greatly support their academic studies. “Our MoU with HCT provides exciting ground to encourage, assist and nurture the country’s future Emirati ICT leaders, especially as we share HCT’s passion for innovation and practical knowledge. This collaboration also reaffirms our belief in the important role that UAE Nationals play in advancing the growth of the ICT field and national development in general,” said Ibrahim Mohamed Lari, CEO of Injazat Data Systems.