The Dow Chemical Company and the Gulf Petrochemicals and Chemicals Association (GPCA), have announced the launch of the first “Young Scientists Programme” in the GCC, an initiative that aims to identify and reward students aspiring to pursue a career in chemical and petroleum engineering.

This unique programme will provide selected students with access to information, events and intelligence to help further their studies in Stem (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) related fields, and support their passion for scientific discovery.

Rolling out across educational institutes in the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, the programme will involve selecting talented students to participate in a range of activities, including a visit to Dow’s Jebel Ali Coatings Plant, an orientation programme at Dow’s regional head office and attendance of the 9th Annual GPCA Forum in November.  

In addition to having many “hands-on” experiences with the downstream petrochemical industry, the students will also receive suitable accreditation for their achievements. The programme will enable the students access to some of the biggest names in the petrochemical sector and provide them with opportunities to network with renowned experts from across the industry at the GPCA Forum, the industry’s flagship event in the Arabian Gulf region.  

Markus Wildi, Dow’s president for the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey, said: “Dow is a firm believer in developing talent and investing in the next generation to help build a better future. This programme endorses Dow’s firm belief that the health of our sector is firmly intertwined with the health of the communities where we operate and supports Dow's Stem mission to help build the workforce of tomorrow by empowering and developing the youth of today.

“No doubt the GCC is brimming with potential, and we want to ensure that this robust talent pool is nurtured and encouraged to develop right here, in the GCC. These are the next generation of scientists who will drive local innovation forward.”

Dr Abdulwahab Al-Sadoun, secretary general, GPCA, said: “It is vital that we support students who express interest and show aptitude in the field of petrochemicals. The industry will play a significant role in the sustainable growth of the region’s economy for the foreseeable future. Through this programme, GPCA will be actively engaged in supporting the social, economic and educational aspirations of the Gulf region at large.” – TradeArabia News Service