Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo launches Student Internship Programmes

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo at The Dubai Mall, is now offering much-sought after Internship programmes to students from around the world. The Internship is designed to provide students with practical working experience on all aspects of managing an aquarium. The programme can also cater to a student’s particular area of interest within the aquarium industry.

Kaltham Abdulla, 23 year-old UAE National, is the first intern at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Currently in her final year at the College of Education at Zayed University, Kaltham has undertaken a 12-week internship programme, which focuses on the aquarium’s Ocean School.

During her internship, Kaltham’s main project has been to research and contribute to the development of new programmes which will focus on teaching children about conservation and the environment.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo has also accepted another placement for an Australian student of Veterinary Science who will complete a two-week curatorial internship in January 2010.

Mr Damian Prendergast, General Manager, said the Internship is specially envisaged to share Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo’s wide breadth of expertise and experience in aquarium management with the student community, and thus share its extensive knowledge base.

He added, “Aquarium science is a specialised field, and as one of the world’s largest aquariums with over 33,000 aquatic animals, we have unmatched practical knowledge in managing them. With the Internship programme, we are offering a unique opportunity for students to gain hands-on knowledge about the various aspects of aquarium management and the diverse aquatic species.”

On her experience as intern, Kaltham, who has previous teaching experience, said, “I chose to intern at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo because of the new experience it provides, especially in teaching school children. The edutainment classroom at the Aquarium is a new experience and will greatly benefit students.”

Secondary or university students from around the world can apply for this Internship. Students must be 16 years of age and above, and preference will be given to those currently studying Marine Science, Teaching or Tourism subjects.

The programmes require a high level of commitment from students who will be requested to commit a minimum of two weeks, with a total of 40 hours per week. Participation is totally voluntary.

Interns must be prepared to participate in ‘hands on’ learning, which may involve animal food preparation, cleaning or even getting wet. Due to the health and safety of the animals, they will not have any direct contact with any animal during their internship.

On completion, students will walk away from the programme with practical working experience and a better understanding of what is involved in working in an Aquarium. Students can also request to continue working at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo on a voluntary basis, subject to management approval.

“We hope that Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo can contribute to the education of the next generation of teachers, aquarists and business professionals,” Mr Prendergast added.

Applications can be made at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo or via email to enquiries@thedubaiaquarium.com. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.

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