Hamdan Foundation Sends 15 Gifted Students to University of Cambridge Summer Programme
Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences has sponsored 15 gifted students to participate in the FitzEd Summer School 2026 at Fitzwilliam College, University of Cambridge, providing them with an international academic experience designed to strengthen their research, analytical and leadership capabilities.
The students are participating alongside more than 280 students from 24 countries, reflecting the Foundation's continued commitment to preparing talented young people for higher education at leading international universities.
International Academic Experience
The FitzEd Summer School is designed for international students aged 14 to 18 and offers an immersive learning environment based on the University of Cambridge's teaching approach.
Courses are delivered by academic staff from the University and its colleges, enabling participants to deepen their subject knowledge while developing critical thinking, research skills, independent learning, and academic confidence.
The programme forms part of the Foundation's broader strategy to provide gifted students with world-class educational opportunities that prepare them for future academic success.
Foundation Leadership Visits Students
During a visit to Fitzwilliam College, H.E. Humaid Mohamed Al Qutami, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation for Medical and Educational Sciences, met with the participating students to learn about their academic experiences and the knowledge they have gained through the programme.
He was welcomed by Baroness Sally Morgan, Master of Fitzwilliam College; Rod Cantrill, Bursar of the College; and Dr. Peter Bolgar, Fellow, College Lecturer and Director of FitzEd Educational Programmes.
The College's leadership outlined the programme's academic framework and highlighted its role in preparing international students for admission to leading universities through advanced teaching methods and practical learning experiences.
Supporting Gifted Students
H.E. Al Qutami said investing in gifted students and providing access to high-quality international education remains one of the Foundation's core priorities.
He noted that exposure to global academic environments helps students broaden their perspectives, strengthen both their academic and personal development, and enhance their ability to succeed in multicultural learning settings.
He added that participation in the FitzEd programme allows students to experience the University of Cambridge's academic environment while developing valuable research, analytical, communication, and collaboration skills that support their future educational ambitions.
Expanding International Partnerships
According to the Foundation, its partnership with Fitzwilliam College reflects its commitment to building long-term collaborations with leading international educational institutions and expanding opportunities for gifted Emirati students.
The initiative aligns with the UAE's vision of investing in human capital and preparing future generations to contribute to the country's knowledge-based economy.
Representatives of Fitzwilliam College also highlighted the progress of the partnership, which began in 2025, noting that students from the Foundation's first cohort achieved outstanding academic results, with several receiving awards for their performance.
The success of the inaugural group has led to an expanded intake for the programme's second year.
Developing Future Talent
The Foundation said initiatives such as the FitzEd Summer School form part of its broader efforts to nurture gifted students by providing access to internationally recognised educational programmes and advanced learning environments.
Through these initiatives, students are given opportunities to strengthen their academic abilities, discover their potential, develop their talents and prepare for future studies at some of the world's leading universities.
