ABU DHABI — The Emirates Foundation, one of the leading philanthropic institutions in the UAE, will welcome a group of young Truman Scholars from the US on an intensive, high-level UAE familiarisation trip which begins today.
Truman Scholars are considered among the elite of USA’s graduates, and are dedicated to careers in the country’s public service. Only 65 are selected each year from thousands of applicants, in a programme named after the 33rd US President, Harry S Truman.
Eighteen of the 2007 Truman Scholars, each of whom has expressed keen interest in learning more about the Middle East, are to visit Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Fujairah between December 10 and 19. They will be accompanied throughout their tour by 12 Emirati ‘Young Ambassadors.’
As guests of the Emirates Foundation, the scholars will meet ministers and business leaders, attend the Federal National Council session, and visit the Zayed Centre for Islamic Culture, and a leading mosque. They’ll also undertake tours of Abu Dhabi University and Burj Al Arab.
Emirates Foundation managing director Ahmed Ali Al Sayegh said: “We are very pleased to host this group of young Americans, who have already demonstrated their leadership potential. We have arranged for them to meet UAE ministers and officials, so as to learn how a modern Arab country is tackling the challenges of rapid commercial and cultural change. We hope and expect that they will take home with them a broader and deeper understanding of the Arab society.”
Truman Graduate Education Fellowships have been awarded annually since 1975. Truman graduates hold influential positions in a variety of American government agencies and public organisations. Past scholars include a state governor and deputy governor, White House executives and senior federal officials.