The GEMS Al Barsha National School for Girls (NSG) in Dubai, UAE, has introduced Design Engineer Construct (DEC), an accredited learning programme for secondary-school age students.

The programme has been expertly developed to create and inspire the next generation of Built Environment professionals. NSG is also the First Educcate Global School to be delivering DEC programme for girls.

The new DEC Learning Programme is supported by key partners and professional bodies from architecture, engineering and construction, including the Institution of Civil Engineers and Heriot Watt University.

Recently, Bentley Systems announced the new global partnership with Class of Your Own, the award-winning UK-based Secondary school STEM education provider and creator of the DEC learning programme.

The partnership with Bentley Systems is the latest in a string of collaborations in which the developer has entered partnerships with leading educational institutions and organisations. To celebrate this partnership DEC in Dubai held its first training sessions at the Bentley Institute in the presence of CEO Alison Watson MBE and other distinguished speakers, key industry leaders, DEC trainers, teachers and principals.

Alison Watson MBE, chief executive - Class of Your Own Limited said: “There are some amazing professional women already working in Dubai who are shaping the future of UAE design, engineering and construction. NSG has an impressive vision for its girls and there have been some great offers of support from women all over the region following a recent social media campaign - and the offers are still rolling in!

“NSG students need inspirational role models if the UAE is to improve its low percentage of females in the industry. It is a fantastic place to work with so many opportunities. I very much look forward to seeing these young girls flourish and making their mark on the Dubai landscape in years to come.”

Michelle Forbes, principal and CEO, GEMS Al Barsha National School for Girls, said: “We are proud to bring the first-of-its kind tailored learning programme, Design Engineer Construction Dubai. DEC offers all learners embedded opportunities to become independent enquirers, creative thinkers, reflective learners, team workers, self-managers and effective participants. The introduction of DEC reinforces our singular purpose – to put a quality education within the reach of every student by placing exceptional role models.” – TradeArabia News Service