CIMA partners with UOWD to offer professional qualifications for students

Dubai, UAE, 22 April 2014: As part of its ongoing initiative to expand its presence and reach out to larger student groups in the UAE, the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UAE.

The globally recognised CIMA qualification allows graduates to become part of a global network, improving their employability and earning potential across the world.

Geetu Ahuja, Head of GCC, CIMA, said: “With over 4,000 students from almost 100 countries across the world, UOWD has a large talent pool of ambitious, high-calibre students. At CIMA we regard UOWD as a key strategic partner in improving the employability and success of students and graduates within the finance and accounting profession. The CIMA programme empowers graduates, builds up their confidence, boosts their CV and enhances their professional skill set, thereby adding value to employers”.

CIMA has also developed professional qualifications relevant to the Middle East, allowing prospective students to specialise in niche professional sectors, such as Islamic finance. The implementation of the CIMA course, as part of the UOWD programme, means that students will now have the chance to be professionally qualified, and have the option to fast track their career. The introduction of the CIMA programme will enrich career prospects for UOWD graduates.

Professor Valerie Lindsay, Dean of the Faculty of Business at UOWD, stated that: “As one of the leading providers of education in the UAE, we want to assist students beyond the classroom.  At UOWD, our goal is to help students get better prepared for a challenging and rewarding career. We understand that the transition from university life to the business environment can be challenging and intimidating, which is why we partnered with CIMA. We wanted to give students the opportunity to develop skills beyond the classroom, and advance the communication skills, competencies and skill sets that are essential for a career in business, finance and accounting.”